Lake Rotomahana

Lake Rotomahana occupies craters formed by steam-blast eruptions which accompanied the Tarawera eruption of 1886 and which destroyed the famous Pink and White Terraces and the earlier Lakes Rotomahana and Rotomakiriri. Now 20 times its original size, Rotomahana boasts the purest strain of Rainbow Trout in the world.

Access to the lake is through the Rotoehu Forest and requires a forestry permit which is available from the Forestry Corporation Information Centre, on Long Mile Drive.

Although camping is not permitted, Lake Rotomahana is a mere 20 minute drive from Rotorua and the exceptional range of accommodation available in and around the city.

Called the warm lake, Lake Rotomahana shores are abundant with natural marvels, including the world’s largest hot water spring. It is one of the newest eco-systems in the world and its flora and fauna are protected as a scenic reserve and wildlife refuge.

There is a tourist cruise available which runs seven times per day through the Waimangu Volcanic Valley Tours and is highly recommended as it is the closest visitors will get to the graveyard of the famed Pink and White Terraces.

See a complete list of Lake Rotomahana activities.

This week's featured activities at Lake Rotomahana are:

Featured Activities

Waimangu Volcanic Valley Walk/ Mount Hazard Hike & Cruise Hiking - Walking - Waimangu Volcanic Valley - Starting from NZ $72.50 per person Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the world's only geothermal system wholly created within written history. Walk through the craters and amazing geothermal features of this beautiful Valley. See volcanic activity, native plants and bird-life in one of the world's newest eco-systems. Try our advanced Mt Hazard hike high above the Valley floor. Your walk is followed by the Lake Rotomahana Cruise to see steaming cliffs, gushing hot springs and the site of the destroyed famous pink and white terraces. More...

Waimangu Volcanic Valley Experience Day Tour - Waimangu Volcanic Valley - Starting from NZ $165 per person Hear & see the explosive story of Waimangu Volcanic Valley in Rotorua, New Zealand, and its regeneration from total devastation to vibrant life as the World's youngest geothermal system. Marvel at Frying Pan Lake, the World's largest hot water spring, and stunning Inferno Crater Lake with its mysterious cycle of filling, overflowing and emptying. Hot water springs & streams, towering steaming cliffs, delicate thermal plants & dramatic panoramas will delight and amaze you. More...

Waimangu Volcanic Valley Round Trip - Groups of 10 or more Day Tour - Waimangu Volcanic Valley - Starting from NZ $109.50 per person At Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Rotorua, you'll find fascinating geothermal and volcanic features on your guided walk through regenerating native bush. See Frying Pan Lake - the World's largest hot water spring - and the amazing Inferno Crater's blue lake with its powerful geyser-like cycle and mysterious interaction with Frying Pan Lake. Delve into the history of the best of Rotorua's geothermal sites, lakes, mountains, and culture. More...

Waimangu Volcanic Valley - Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise Sightseeing Cruise - Waimangu Volcanic Valley - Starting from NZ $40.00 per person Enjoy a relaxing 45 minutes cruise on Lake Rotomahana, at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Rotorua, with full commentary from your skipper. Accessible only through Waimangu, this lake is a completely separate geothermal system featuring hot springs, geysers, fumeroles and steaming cliffs that can only be seen from the boat cruise. More...