Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal activity - this is a simply spectacular place, where geysers, hissing steam, bubbling mud and natural hot springs can all be found within minutes of Distinction Rotorua Grand Tiara Hotel!
This ancient volcanic landscape provides some of nature's most astounding sights -Geysers erupting up to 100 feet into the air, boiling mud pools that bubble and spit, steam hissing as it escapes from vents that go deep into the earth, massive craters and natural hot springs to bathe in.
Some of the best geothermal attractions include:
Orakei Korako - 'The Hidden Valley'
This startling pocket of land has been described by Lonely Planet as one of the finest thermal areas in the world. Stroll through a hidden valley of colour, hot springs, gushing geysers, silica terraces and breath-taking natural beauty. The short boat ride across Lake Ohakuri to reach 'the hidden valley' is also a magical part of this experience.
Hells Gate
Discover remarkable formations, New Zealand's largest active mud volcano, the largest hot waterfall in the southern hemisphere and largest boiling whirlpool. You'll also see the largest hot waterfall in the southern hemisphere and so much more. You can also bathe in hot mud pools or the natural thermal water springs.
Wai-O-Tapu
Another 'must see' on your visit to Rotorua: See the Champagne Pool - unique in the world, this is a fifth of a hectare of bubbling, hissing water with a beautiful ochre-coloured petrified edge. Witness the sheer power of Mother Nature as the Lady Knox Geyser erupts, shooting scalding water up to 20 feet into the air!
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Seven massive craters formed from devastating volcanic eruptions today make up the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. This multi-award winning eco-tourism destination includes Echo Crater and Frying Pan Lake - the world's largest hot water spring, Inferno Crater - the world's largest geyser-like feature - and much, much more.
White Island
Take a tour by boat or helicopter to this active volcano - in the middle of the ocean! Don your gas mask and other safety equipment before you walk around the almost moon-like surface of the volcano - seeing crater lakes, towering steam columns, bizarre rock formations, the relics of a destroyed mining village and more.