Rotorua Geothermal Activity is Everywhere

Frying Pan Lake, Rotorua
Photographer: Waimangu Volcanic
Valley
(www.waimangu.com)

From the moment you enter Rotorua, you know you are somewhere quite different. Sneaky threads of steam issue from parks, pathways and streets and the occasional scent of sulphur wafts through the air—a hint of what's in store.

And you don't need to look far. Minutes from the Rotorua city centre, geysers of steaming water roar from the ground. Pools of bubbling mud gurgle and belch. In geothermal fields around Rotorua, steam rises from placid lakes and flowing streams. Dazzling silica terraces display a kaleidoscope of colour. Towering volcanoes, now sleeping giants, are unmistakable reminders of the landscape's turbulent past. Extinct volcanic craters provide the vessels for Rotorua's crystal lakes.

And to round off a day of geothermal exploration, relax in pools of naturally heated mineral water and experience for yourself why Rotorua is called 'Nature's Spa of the South Pacific'.

Boiling Mud, Rotorua
Photographer: Tourism Rotorua
(marketing@tourism.rdc.govt.nz)

Rotorua Geothermal Attractions

Evidence of Rotorua's steamy underground is everywhere. Some major geothermal attractions include:

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland - Brilliant colours are the beautiful feature of this thermal wonderland.

Waimangu Volcanic Valley - Visit this amazing volcanic valley which was formed during the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption.

The Pohutu Geyser - Located at Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, this geyser can shoot water 100 feet or 30 metres skyward.

Hell's Gate - A truly spooky Thermal Reserve.