Tarawera Falls Volcanic Heli Hike

TOUR DESCRIPTION

From lofty volcanic heights to a magical waterfall, this extraordinary day out showcases a variety of scenery not found anywhere else in New Zealand, if not the world: All located only two and a half hours from Auckland. This heli hike has no comparison: It combines the thrill of landing on the summit of Mount Tarawera with a half-day hike. Here you follow the crystal-clear waters of the Tarawera River to the remarkable Tarawera Falls.

Departing Rotorua, your helicopter takes you across our stunning lakes district to the summit of Mount Tarawera. This dormant volcano is the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory, and from the summit, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Bay of Plenty, Lake Tarawera, as well as the surrounding National Parks. Additionally, the volcano’s massive craters will impress.

After your Mount Tarawera experience, your helicopter will relocate you to Tapahoro on the shores of Lake Tarawera. Here, your hike begins. This hike is self-guided with a clearly formed track following the gin-clear Tarawera River beneath imposing bluffs, towering over native New Zealand forest. The hike continues past a series of more and more impressive cascades until you arrive at the main waterfall flowing, unbelievably, from the middle of a cliff through a passage carved in time. The result is, undoubtedly, one of New Zealand’s most intriguing waterfalls.

Along the way, take a break to enjoy a picnic lunch and, in the summer, enjoy a swim in one of the refreshing pools along the river. The hike, including the return walk retracing your steps to Tapahoro, takes around 3.5 hours at a leisurely pace. Back at Tapahoro, you will meet the Totally Tarawera team for your return boat transfer across beautiful Lake Tarawera to the Tarawera outlet. From here, Totally Tarawera will transfer you back to your vehicle at the Rotorua Lakefront.