Whakarewarewa

Incorporating the magnificence of the geothermal landscape and the unique experience of a traditional Maori village, Whakarewarewa is home of the largest geyser in New Zealand. The mighty Pohutu geyser erupts up to 15 times a day and shoots hot water around 90 feet skywards. This spectacular display of nature's consistent performance was under threat 20 years ago as the geothermal resource was tapped into by local bores. Fortunately for Pohutu and for the thousands of tourists both national and international, the local government demanded the closure of these drains on the regions geothermal energies and today Pohutu and its fellow geysers are well on the way to their original majesty.

Approximately 500 hot springs set among the distinct, colourful 'sinter' terraces and pools make up Whakarewarewa and as it is only three kilometres from Rotorua, it is an extremely popular tourism destination.

Whakarewarewa is known as the Living Thermal Village. Within its boundaries is an historic Maori site, where a war party gathered before setting off to battle. Daily guided tours provide a glimpse into how the Maori of this region lived in harmony with the abundantly resourceful environment. At the heart of Whakarewarewa is the Pa, a Maori village where you may roam among the whares (the houses) and marvel at how the indigenous peoples of New Zealand once lived, not so very long ago.

Be entertained and awed by the traditional Maori cultural performances incorporating melodious voice, stimulating movement and respect of the land and the ancestors. Truly moving and divinely unique, the Whakarewarewa experience is not to be missed.

Having had your fill of the sights, the sounds and the aromas, relax at Ned’s Cafe and enjoy corn on the cob cooked fresh in the steaming waters of the hot springs or try a traditional Hangi meal, cooked in a pit with hot stones, layers of flax and earth. What could be closer to an authentic Maori experience!

See a complete list of Whakarewarewa activities.

This week's featured activities in Whakarewarewa are:

Featured Activities

Rotorua City Helicopter Flight Helicopter Tour - Rotorua - Starting from around NZ $90.00 per person See amazing views of Rotorua, a geothermal city and its breathtaking volcanic areas on this 10-minute breathtaking helicopter flight. This is a short but sweet scenic helicopter flight that will be sure to give you the thrill of flying topped off with a great insight to new Zealand's famous Rotorua and surrounds!  More...

Te Puia - Guided Tour Maori - Rotorua Nau Mai, Haere Mai. Welcome to Te Puia, New Zealand's premier Maori culture and geothermal visitor experience. Te Puia offers you, through our people, our art and our many onsite experiences, an opportunity to sense our history and feel our living culture. You will also experience the wonders of Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, our foundation as New Zealand's most iconic tourist attraction. More...

Crater Lake Views Helicopter Flight from Rotorua Helicopter Tour - Rotorua - Starting from around NZ $190.00 per person This flight features the regions spectacular volcanic crater lakes. Fly over this geothermal city - bubbling, steaming and hissing with the heat of the inner earth. View the lakes before returning via Rotorua City and the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve.  More...