Journey into the volcanic heart of Aotearoa — where the earth steams, erupts, and paints the landscape in surreal colour. A place unlike anywhere else on the planet.
Rotorua sits at the southern end of the Taupo Volcanic Zone, one of the most active geothermal regions on Earth. Here, the Pacific Plate plunges beneath the Australian Plate, superheating underground water systems and creating the dramatic thermal features that have drawn visitors for over a century.
From the towering eruptions of Pohutu Geyser to the surreal hues of Wai-O-Tapu's mineral pools, Rotorua offers a rare window into the raw geological forces shaping our planet. For Māori, these thermal areas — known as ngāwhā — have been a source of sustenance, healing, and spiritual connection for generations.
From explosive geysers to bubbling cauldrons of mud, Rotorua's thermal features are among the most varied and spectacular on the planet.
The Southern Hemisphere's largest active geyser blasts superheated water up to 30 metres skyward. Erupting up to 20 times daily, each display lasts several minutes — a truly awe-inspiring spectacle of raw volcanic energy located within Te Puia's geothermal valley.
Thick grey mud plopping and belching in giant cauldrons — it's mesmerising and slightly surreal. Volcanic gases rising from deep underground heat the mud to near boiling, creating constantly shifting patterns and the distinctive sulfurous aroma Rotorua is famous for.
A 65-metre-wide hot spring ringed in vivid orange and gold, constantly fizzing with carbon dioxide like a glass of champagne. At 74°C, this 900-year-old pool contains deposits of gold, silver, mercury, and arsenic that create its extraordinary colours.
Formed over thousands of years by mineral-laden water flowing down hillsides, these delicate white and pastel formations create an almost alien landscape. The terraces shift and grow slowly, with new colours emerging as different minerals are deposited.
Walk among massive volcanic craters filled with boiling turquoise water, engulfed in clouds of steam. These dramatic formations offer some of the most striking photography opportunities in Rotorua, especially at dawn when steam billows dramatically in the cool air.
Well-maintained boardwalks thread through active thermal zones, placing you metres from boiling pools, steaming fumaroles, and bubbling mud. These accessible walkways allow visitors of all abilities to safely experience the sheer intensity of geothermal activity up close.
Three world-class parks, each with a distinct character and unique features worth exploring.
Hemo Road, Rotorua
Home to Pohutu Geyser and the New Zealand Māori Arts & Crafts Institute. Te Puia combines geothermal spectacle with living cultural heritage — watch master carvers and weavers at work, then witness the geyser erupt against a backdrop of native bush.
201 Waiotapu Loop Road
The most colourful geothermal area in New Zealand. The Champagne Pool, Devil's Bath, and Artist's Palette display an extraordinary range of vivid hues created by mineral deposits of silica, sulfur, iron, and arsenic — a landscape that seems painted rather than geological.
587 Waimangu Road
The world's youngest geothermal system, born from the 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera. Walk downhill through a valley of steaming craters, turquoise lakes, and regenerating bush — including the world's largest hot water spring, Frying Pan Lake, covering 38,000 square metres.
For Ngāti Whakaue and Te Arawa iwi, these geothermal areas are taonga (treasures) intertwined with daily life and spiritual identity. Māori have been using thermal waters for cooking, bathing, and healing for over 700 years.
Experience traditional hāngī-style cooking using the earth's natural heat — food wrapped and lowered into steaming vents for a unique flavour found nowhere else.
Watch powerful haka, waiata (songs), and poi displays at Te Puia or Whakarewarewa — authentic performances by local Māori communities sharing their heritage.
The only village in New Zealand where people still live alongside active geothermal features. Residents use natural hot pools for bathing and thermal vents for cooking daily.
At the NZ Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, master carvers and weavers create intricate works using traditional techniques passed through generations — a living art form.
We don't just show you the sights — we connect you with the stories, science, and culture behind Rotorua's geothermal wonders.
Maximum 16 guests per tour ensures personal attention, flexible pacing, and a more intimate experience at every stop.
Knowledgeable local guides share geological science, Māori history, and insider tips that transform sightseeing into genuine understanding.
We time visits for optimal lighting and fewer crowds, with guides who know exactly where to stand for the best shots.
Family-friendly itineraries with flexible pacing. Well-maintained paths and boardwalks are accessible for all fitness levels.
Everything you need to know before visiting Rotorua's geothermal areas, from what to wear to the best time of year for your trip.
Our guided tours handle all logistics including park entry, transport, and timing — so you can focus entirely on the experience.
Rotorua's geothermal parks are spectacular year-round. Winter (June–August) produces the most dramatic steam displays as hot vapour meets cold air. Summer (December–February) offers longer daylight and warmer walking conditions. Early mornings are ideal in any season for fewer crowds and striking steam effects. Our guides time each visit for optimal conditions.
Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes with good grip are essential — boardwalks can be damp from steam. Dress in layers as temperatures vary between shaded bush and open thermal areas. Bring sunscreen, a hat, a water bottle, and a camera. The sulfur aroma is part of the charm — wearing older clothes is sensible as the smell can linger slightly.
All three major geothermal parks offer wheelchair-accessible routes on main boardwalks and paths. Te Puia and Wai-O-Tapu have the most extensive accessible areas. Some steeper trails and remote features may not be fully accessible. Contact us in advance and we'll tailor the itinerary to suit your group's needs.
Yes — Rotorua's distinctive "rotten egg" smell comes from hydrogen sulfide gas produced by geothermal activity. It's strongest near active features and in the parks themselves. Most visitors adjust within 15–20 minutes and barely notice it. The town itself has a milder aroma. It's all part of the extraordinary experience of being so close to active volcanic forces.
Individual geothermal parks typically require 2–3 hours to explore fully. Our guided day tours cover multiple parks and cultural experiences over 6–8 hours, including transport from Rotorua accommodation. Half-day options focusing on a single park are also available. We allow generous time at each stop so you never feel rushed.
All parks are family-friendly with well-maintained safety barriers along every boardwalk. Children are fascinated by the bubbling mud and erupting geysers. Kids under five enter most parks free. Pushchairs are manageable on main paths at Te Puia and Wai-O-Tapu, though some routes involve stairs. We recommend the Te Puia kiwi house as a highlight for younger visitors.
"Absolutely phenomenal. Watching Pohutu Geyser erupt while our guide explained the geology was a highlight of our entire New Zealand trip. The Māori cultural show at Te Puia was deeply moving."
Sydney, Australia
"We visited Wai-O-Tapu and I genuinely couldn't believe my eyes. The Champagne Pool looks like it's been photoshopped — those colours are real! Small group meant we could take our time with photos."
London, United Kingdom
"Took our kids (6 and 9) and they were absolutely captivated by the mud pools. Our guide was brilliant — made the science accessible for them while keeping the adults fascinated too. Highly recommend."
Melbourne, Australia
Join Cooee Tours for an unforgettable journey through Rotorua's volcanic heartland. Small groups, expert guides, and memories that last a lifetime.