In 1886, Mt Tarawera in Rotorua erupted, destroying the surrounding area and opening the earth along a 17km rift. Mt Tarawera was split in two, Lake Rotomahana exploded to 20 times its size, and the seven craters that today make up Waimangu Volcanic Valley were formed.
Within 15 years of the eruption, the hot springs of the world’s newest geothermal eco-system were established within the newly formed craters. Today when you visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley you’ll be mesmerized by Frying Pan Lake, one of the largest hot water springs in the world, and captivated by Inferno Crater, a steaming window into the Earth’s molten core, its beautiful blue lake rising and falling in its own mysterious rhythm.
Waimangu Valley is an exciting dramatic destination for the whole family to enjoy. Whatever your age or fitness level, you’ll find something that suits you from our choice of easy walks, advanced hiking and boat cruise experiences ranging in duration from 45 minutes to over 4 hours. And should your wandering take you too far, our shuttle bus is always close by if you don’t want to walk back to the entrance. There you can browse through our well stocked gift shop and enjoy delicious snacks drinks in our modern café.
We also offer a variety of tours including transportation from Rotorua City hotels.
If you’re looking for outdoor activity, want to experience unique ecology, botany stunning geothermal features during your stay in Rotorua, Waimangu, is the ‘must do’ experience that you can’t go past.
Qualmark accredited, multiple New Zealand Eco-Tourism Award winner, Waimangu is equally enjoyable in Autumn, Winter, Spring and Summer. It is easily accessible, just 20 minutes south of Rotorua, and 40 minutes north of Taupo.
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