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Waimangu Volcanic Valley |
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Waimangu Volcanic Valley with Lake Rotomahana is an exciting destination suitable for all ages and fitness levels. We have something for everyone with a choice of easy walks, advanced hikes and a boat cruise, ranging from 45 minutes to over 4 hours.
 Amazing Waimangu was created out of a violent eruption in 1886 when Mt Tarawera exploded, 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 ecosystem were established within its newly formed craters.
Today, our visitors are awed by what they find. You too, will be mesmerized by unique geothermal features such as Frying Pan Lake, one of the largest hot water springs in the world and Inferno Crater, a steaming window into the Earth's molten core, its stunning blue lake rising and falling in its own mysterious rhythm.
Our beautiful valley is huge, with plenty of room for everyone. As you walk through its green and serene native forests you'll hear bird song around you, see newly regenerating plant life and find delicate silica terraces growing day by day.
But don't worry - should your wandering take you too far from your starting point, our shuttle bus is always close by to return you to the entrance. There you can browse our well stocked gift shop or enjoy delicious refreshments and drinks in our modern cafe.
If you're in Rotorua and want to enjoy outdoor activity with unique ecology, botany and stunning geothermal features, then Waimangu Volcanic Valley is the 'must do' experience that you can't go past. We also offer a variety of group tours including transportation from Rotorua City hotels.
Qualmark accredited, and multiple New Zealand EcoTourism Award winner, Waimangu is equally enjoyable in Autumn, Winter, Spring and Summer.
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