Above image depicts the June 10, 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera which resulted in Te Wairoa Village being buried under a blanket of mud 1.5-2 metres deep. Approximately 153 lives were lost; 17 from Te Wairoa Village (The buried village).

New Zealand is one of the countries that make up the Pacific Rim of Fire – countries on the western-Pacific rim that are prone to volcanic activity. New Zealand’s active volcanic region stretches from White Island in the Bay of Plenty to the mountains of Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe in the central North Island.

In the centre of this geothermal activity is Rotorua City – New Zealand’s oldest tourist resort. There is a pervasive smell of sulphur in the area, and steam escapes from cracks in the ground, pathways and sidewalks.

At nearby geothermal hotspots, geysers spout skyward, mud pools bubble and belch, and warm thermal pools create a kaleidoscope of colour. Walkways provide easy access and good views, but you should observe warning notices and not venture beyond fences. You may visit any of the thermal areas independently or take a tour.

Many of our packages include private guided tours to Rotorua, Taupo & the Central North Island, or please talk to us about including this as an option in a tailored vacation package.