Geothermal Attractions Around Taupo
Posted by Bella Vista on
As part of the Taupo Volcanic Zone that stretches from Central North Island to Bay of Plenty, there are many geothermal attractions close to Taupo Bella Vista. Many of these attractions are within 1 hour’s drive from your Taupo Motel accommodation.
Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park
Orakei Korako is Bella Vista's top pick and arguably the best geothermal attraction around Taupo Region. Considered as “off the beaten track” it is only 25 minutes’ drive from Taupo. To access the park, you need to drive for 30 minutes from the motel along state highway 1. Once parked you can hop on an on-demand boat (included in the admission fee) which crosses the mighty Waikato River.
A boardwalk from the jetty leads you to the centre of the park where many geothermal features such as geysers, hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and massive silica terraces can be found. Do not miss the Ruatapu Cave. It takes average 1 hour to complete the self-guided walk.
Crater Of The Moon
Less than 10 minutes’ drive out of Taupo town centre is a lesser known geothermal area. This area resembles lunar landscapes, features bubbling craters, steam vents and colourful soils. The walkway is mostly level and accessible to both wheelchair & pram (free for loan). The entrance fee is good value at $8 for an adult. It takes a leisurely 45 minutes to complete a self-guided loop.
Tokaanu Thermal Walk
Located at the southern end of Lake Taupo in the village of Tokaanu near Turangi, is this family-friendly walkway. You can complete the loop walk in around 15 minutes. All the features of the walk includiong steaming pools and spluttering mud pots are set amongst attractive native bush. Access is free, but do visit the thermal pools right next door which draws its mineral rich water from the hot streams. The people of local M?ori tribe have lived around the thermal area since the 16th century.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Located off SH5 between Taupo and Rotorua lies one of the youngest geothermal area in the world, Waimangu Valley.
Not only does the park have some spectacular volcanic features such as craters, geysers, and hot springs, there is also the stories of the Mt Tarawera eruption. The volcanoes explosion not only resulted in this dramatic landscape, but also changed the lives of many.
You begin this unique experience by descending into the valley from top of a hill where you can see a range of geothermal activity and features. The highlight is the brilliant blue Inferno Crater. Continue your walk to Lake Rotomahana, or hop on the free shuttle back to where you started. If you choose the former, you have the option to join the lake cruise and learn more about the nature and human history of the area.
Depending on your schedule, allow 1 – 3 hours to explore and experience this amazing piece of the world.
Bella Vista Taupo is situated just a short walk from both Lake Taupo waterfront and the town. Handy for shops and attractions it is a perfect getaway spot.