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Stunning geothermal scenery at Orakei Korako Geothermal Park
A beautiful Ohakuri lake view
The largest geyser field of New Zealand
Explore stunning natural attractions
Enjoy food and refreshments
Orakei Korako Geothermal Walk
★★★★☆
4.9 / 5 (20)

Orakei Korako Geothermal Walk

Orakei Korako (also known as 'The Hidden Valley') is a highly active geothermal area situated in the Taupo Volcanic Zone on the Waikato River at Lake Ohakuri. Orakei Korako is New Zealand's largest geyser field with around 26 active geysers and is one of the country's most stunning natural attractions. Embark on a short ferry ride across the lake to begin the walk through some of New Zealand's most dynamic geothermal scenery, including the Largest Silica Terrace in New Zealand, one of only two geothermal caves in the world, and the highest concentration of geyser activity in one place in New Zealand, all packed into a 2.5km walk through some stunning terrain. When you have finished the walk, relax with food or refreshments from our Cafe while you enjoy the views of Lake Ohakuri.

From

NZ$51.00

Per Person

Live Availability with Instant Confirmation

Highlights

  • New Zealand's largest Geyser Field with up to 28 active geysers on site

  • Largest silica Terraces in New Zealand, reminiscent of the famous Pink and White Terraces

  • Ruatapu, a Geothermal cave. One of only two examples in the world

  • "Arguably NZ's most spectacular thermal area" - Lonely Planet

  • Constantly shifting kaleidoscope of algal mats and silica sinter.

Visit

Full Description

Orakei Korako (also known as 'The Hidden Valley') is a highly active geothermal area situated in the Taupo Volcanic Zone on the Waikato River at Lake Ohakuri. Orakei Korako is New Zealand's largest geyser field with around 26 active geysers and is one of the country's most stunning natural attractions.

Embark on a short ferry ride across the lake to begin the walk through some of New Zealand's most dynamic geothermal scenery, including the Largest Silica Terrace in New Zealand, one of only two geothermal caves in the world, and the highest concentration of geyser activity in one place in New Zealand, all packed into a 2.5km walk thr...

Includes

Baby backpacks are also provided.

Tour is dog friendly.

Meeting Point

From Taupo (25mins)

Turn onto State Highway 1 at Wairakei. Head towards Hamilton for 14 km. Turn right onto Tutukau Road and follow the road for 8.5 km. Turn left onto Orakei Korako Road and follow it to the end of the road.

From Rotorua (45mins)

Take State Highway 5 to Mihi Bridge and turn right onto Tutukau Road, follow the road for 16.5Km, turn left onto Orakei Korako Road, and follow it to the end of the road.

Cancellation policy

Full refund if cancelled up to 24 hours before activity starts.

Terms
Risk Disclosure

- Slips Trips and Falls: Customers are advised that the park contains boardwalks that are exposed to the elements and may be slippery at times and a number of stairs are
present. Please take care with your footing and keep an eye on where you step
to avoid slips trips and falls.

- Burns: Geothermal areas contain hot water and steam. The ground off the track can be extremely fragile and have boiling water running through it. Please treat all water as hot and stay on the
pathways at all times. There is the potential for hot material to splash, so we recommend full length clothing and covered shoes.

- Dehydration/Exhaustion: The park is generally hotter than on the Visitors Centre side of the river and the walk requires a basic level of fitness to complete. Ensure you take enough water and are fit enough to complete the walk and be able to be evacuated if necessary.

- Fire: There is a risk of fire in the bush surrounding the park. The park is a No smoking area to prevent fires. In the event of a fire please report immediately to the staff via the radios at the first aid points and follow all instructions given by the loudspeaker.

- Geothermal event / Earthquake: Geothermal zones are unpredictable and located in geologically active areas. A major geothermal event or earthquake is possible. In the event of a major geothermal event or earthquake please follow the instructions of the staff. The pathways are located in areas of relative safety. Stay on the pathways at all times.

- Drowning/Crushing: The docks are a location where heavy machinery is operating near water and are a high-risk zone. Please stay off the docks unless indicated to by the skipper of the ferry. While aboard the ferry passengers must follow instructions given to them by the skipper.

- Unsupervised children: Geothermal zones are dangerous for children who are unsupervised as they may not be able to recognize unfamiliar risks. All children must be directly supervised at all times while in the park.

It is the responsibility of people visiting the park to abide by all safety advice given to them and act in a safe manner at all times.

If you wish to know more about any of these risks, please ask our friendly staff.

From

NZ$51.00

Per Person

Live Availability with Instant Confirmation

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494 Orākei Kōrako Road, Ohakuri, New Zealand, 3083

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the walk suitable for all fitness levels and beginners?

The walk is rated as medium difficulty and is generally suitable for most individuals aged 3 to 80 years. It involves several steps and uneven terrain, so a basic level of fitness is recommended.

Are guided tours available, or is the walk self-guided?

The walk is self-guided. Visitors receive on-demand boat access across Lake Ōhakuri to begin the walk, then explore the geothermal features at their own pace, following clear signage and using the safe, raised walkway.

Are there rest areas or shelters along the trail?

Mostly, no. The walking loop itself has no rest shelters or cafés. Facilities such as toilets and a café are available only before or after the walk, near the visitor center by the lake. During the walk, there are no shaded shelters, so plan accordingly.

Is the trail suitable for wheelchairs?

The geothermal walk itself is not wheelchair friendly due to the presence of many steps and uneven terrain.

What should I bring for the geothermal walk?

Its advisable to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection.

What is your cancellation policy?

We offer a full refund if cancelled up to 24 hours before the activity starts.
 

What happens if it rains or the bad weather on that day ?

Poor weather means cancellation or rescheduling, with a full refund offered if conditions are unsafe.
 

Can I bring my dog on this tour?

Yes, the tour is dog friendly.

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