Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave
- MUST DO NZ NATURAL ATTRACTION
- FERRY RIDE ACROSS THE WAIKATO RIVER
- HIDDEN VALLEY
- GEOTHERMAL FORMATIONS
- UP TO 23 ACTIVE GEYSERS
- HOT SPRINGS
- MUD POOLS
- SILICA TERRACES
- NZ'S ONLY GEOTHERMAL CAVE
- UNIQUE NATURAL ATTRACTION
- MUDCAKE CAFE
- SOUVENIR SHOP
- DOG FRIENDLY
- VISITOR CENTRE
- 5-STAR TOURIST ATTRACTION
Welcome to Orakei Korako, The Hidden Valley, one of New Zealand’s most stunning and untouched geothermal wonders. Just a short drive from both Taupō, this hidden gem invites you to explore a world of gushing geysers, steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and some of the most remarkable silica terraces on the planet. Home to more active geysers than any other geothermal park in New Zealand, Orakei Korako is constantly evolving, a living landscape that showcases the incredible power and beauty of nature.
Wander through the Hidden Valley and discover the Ruatapu Cave, a rare geothermal cave that extends more than 36 metres into volcanic rock, leading to the enchanting ‘Waiwhakaata’ or ‘Pool of Mirrors’ hot pool below. Stroll along scenic walking tracks surrounded by vibrant colours, geothermal activity, and native bush teeming with life. Whether you’re visiting from Taupō, or beyond, Orakei Korako is an unforgettable experience, perfect for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.
Start your day with a freshly brewed coffee from the MudCake Café, take in the spectacular geothermal views, and unwind with a glass of wine and a treat after your walk. Admission includes a ferry ride across the Waikato River, with boats running on demand from 8 am to 4 pm daily. Orakei Korako is dog-friendly, offers free Wi-Fi at the Visitor Centre, and can even be reached by shuttle, float plane, or helicopter for a truly memorable visit. Discover this geothermal paradise, an absolute must-see destination in New Zealand’s volcanic heart.
To contact Orakei Korako call 07 378 3131, send an email, or visit their website.
MORE INFORMATION
Explore a Volcanic Wonderland
Welcome to the geothermal realm of Orakei Korako, The Hidden Valley, nestled within the Taupō Volcanic Zone along the Waikato River. Once home to more than 250 hot springs and geysers, the area remains New Zealand’s largest active geyser field despite part of it being submerged by the hydro-electric creation of Lake Ohakuri. Today, the site offers an unmissable natural spectacle of steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and rugged volcanic terrain, making it one of the country’s most extraordinary geothermal destinations.
Geothermal Formations at Orakei Korako
The geothermal landscape at Orakei Korako is a mesmerising natural wonder that showcases the raw beauty and power of New Zealand’s volcanic heart. Wander through this extraordinary geothermal valley and witness the vibrant Emerald Terrace, where orange and green microbial mats create a living artwork across steaming mineral terraces. Nearby, the Diamond Geyser bursts to life, sending jets of water soaring up to nine metres high, while the Cascade Terrace flows with colourful sinter and mineral patterns. The glowing Hochstetter’s Pool shimmers in shades of yellow, orange, and green, and the remarkable Map of Africa formation mirrors its namesake in shape, bubbling with life between its twin thermal basins. A hydrothermal crater from 2001 now rests as a tranquil blue pool, adding to the valley’s sense of wonder. The Golden Fleece Terrace reveals ancient reeds fossilised in silica, while the expansive Artist’s Palette dazzles with white sinter and brilliant blue pools. Together, these formations create an unforgettable experience, a vivid, ever-changing landscape that captures the true spirit and magic of Orakei Korako. An absolute must see when visiting the region.
The Unique Ruatapu Cave Experience
One of the most captivating features here is the thermal Ruatapu Cave (also known as the “Sacred Hole”), a rare geothermal cave in the world that plunges more than 35 metres down into volcanic tuff to reveal the remarkable “Waiwhakaata” or “Pool of Mirrors” hot pool. While direct access to the pool is restricted for safety, a viewing platform gives visitors a safe, awe-inspiring vantage point. Surrounding the cave are dozens of boiling hot springs and mud pools, plus native bush walks offering a deeper connection to the land, flora, and geothermal energy underlying this hidden paradise.
