Visit Waikato Region with Mighway

Craters Of The Moon

Only a few minutes north of Taupo and easily accessible off State Highway One, Craters of the Moon ('karapiti') is an active geothermal field and a formidable volcanic example of the inner earth’s fiery inferno bursting forth, not to mention a popular Taupo visitor attraction.

The terrain is filled with exposed steam vents and is constantly shifting, collapsing and reforming, giving Craters of the Moon its iconic uninhabited, otherworldly appearance. This popular Taupo attraction contains bubbling craters, colourful soils and plants that have adapted to and thriving in this hot environment. Boardwalks and pathways lead spectators safely through the area, avoiding the fumes and hot temperatures around the steam vents in this well-visited spot.

Craters of the Moon began to form in 1950 as a result of utilising the underground thermal energy in the Wairakei Valley. This area used to contain light geothermal activity until the construction of Wairakei Geothermal Power Station, approximately 2000 metres north of the field. The power station lowered underground water levels and as a result the fumaroles and mud pools became more active.

There was less water to cool the magma and the ground cavity which was previously full of water is now full of high-pressure sulphurous steam, creating the force responsible for the shifting and changing landscape. Formed over the past sixty years Craters of the Moon is now a must-see Taupo attraction, with its desolate moonscape and clouds of swirling steam.

Open every day except Christmas, the easy stroll is suited to all ages and fitness levels. Allow around 45 minutes to complete the loop and an additional 15 minutes for the upper lookout. This section is steep in places but the view is well worth the effort and highly recommended.

Orakei Korako Geothermal Park

Come and explore a world of gushing geysers, hot springs, bubbling mud pools and some of the largest and most amazing silica terraces in the world.Wander through the Hidden Valley and veiw the thermal Ruatapu Cave which extends more than 36m down to the 'Waiwhakaata' or 'Pool of Mirrors' hot pool at the bottom.

Orakei Korako boasts the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. Up to 23 active natural geysers play freely through the area, which is constantly changing. Marvel at the number of boiling hot springs and the vibrant colours all around you. Lonely Planet writes "Arguably the best Thermal area in New Zealand" Trip Advisor Award of Excellence 2011 to 2017.

Hot Water Beach

Popular for a patch of thermal water bubbling just beneath the surface of the sand at low tide, Hot Water Beach has achieved cult-like status as a worldwide wonder right here on The Coromandel. Visitors flock to the usually deserted Hot Water Beach two hours either side of low tide. The lure of hot water brings people in buses, campervans, tour groups and rental vehicles. They pull into the recently expanded carparks with a mixture of excitement, fascination and anticipation on their faces.

At high tide, the beach appears much as you might expect - dramatic rolling surf, craggy rock-edged coastline, vast horizon with the shadowy glimpse of islands in the distance. At low-tide, the scene is spectacularly altered. Every day, without exception for weather, holiday, season or circumstance, you will find a community of people gathered within a 20 metre radius. They will be industriously digging a small pool or soaking in the rewarding results of theirs or someone else’s earlier efforts. The water is hot - up to 64 degrees celsius.

The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company

The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company is New Zealand’s first black water cave rafting adventure operator.

With exhilarating caving & rafting tours, namely Black Abyss, Black Labyrinth and the Black Odyssey, to choose from, there is something to suit all adventurous spirits. The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co. is New Zealand's first black water rafting adventure operator. And it's also the only tour that takes you through the incomparable Ruakuri Cave.

Each Waitomo Caves Black Water Rafting expedition includes around 6-12 people guided by expert guides who will support and encourage you through the whole breathtaking caving tour.

Our friendly, knowledgeable local guides have helped The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co. achieve an excellent safety record over many years. They can help you step outside yourself and leave with a huge sense of accomplishment.​​​​​​​​​​​​