Rotorua: Volcano Landing and Geothermal Park Helicopter Tour
ID: GYG813132-1295614
Category:
Country: New Zealand
Duration:
03:00 hours
Description
Experience the best scenery New Zealand has to offer with a landing on a dormant volcano, stunning lakes, aerial views of multiple geothermal parks, plus an hour to walk around a geothermal park.
Discover some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery with a once-in-a-lifetime experience that includes a landing on the dormant volcano, Mount Tarawera, stunning views of Rotorua’s Lakes district, and a chance to explore the geothermal wonders of the region. Departing from the Rotorua Lakefront, your journey begins with a flight over Mokoia Island and the picturesque Crater Lakes District. As you soar above the Tarawera outlet, keep an eye out for trout spawning before the river cascades into the impressive Tarawera Falls. Your adventure continues with a landing on Mount Tarawera, the site of New Zealand's largest volcanic eruption in 1886, where you’ll have time to walk the summit and take in panoramic views of distant national parks.
As you depart Mount Tarawera, the flight path follows the dramatic volcanic rift line to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, home to the Steaming Cliffs and Inferno Crater. Along the way, your pilot will provide commentary and photography assistance as you marvel at the unique volcanic landscapes. Next, you’ll witness the vibrant hues of the Artist’s Palette and the Champagne Pool at Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park. Continuing south, the helicopter descends into the hidden valley of Orakei Korako, where a land-based tour awaits. After a short ferry ride across the Waikato River, you’ll have an hour to explore hot springs, erupting geysers, silica terraces, and even a thermal cave.
Before reboarding, you can relax with a coffee or snack from the local café. The return flight offers scenic views of rural farmland and the Paeroa mountain range before flying over Rotorua City and back to the lakefront pier, concluding your unforgettable journey.
Highlights
- Take in the stunning views of the Rotorua Lakes District from above
- Land on the summit of Mount Tarawera, a dormant volcano
- Walk around the summit with your pilot and take in the views
- See the vibrant colors of the Artist’s Palette and the Champagne Pool
- Explore the Orakei Korako Geothermal Park on a self-guided tour
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking.
Check weather conditions and dress appropriately.
Bring a camera for personal photos, although the pilot offers photography services.
Be prepared for varying temperatures at the summit of Mount Tarawera.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.