White Island with Mt Tarawera Heli Landing

North Island

Volcanic Air

from

NZ$2150

per adult

Book Now

Passengers inside a helicopter flying toward White Island, Bay of Plenty

Experiences

Scenic Plane Flights

Hot Springs and Geothermal Attractions

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Rotorua

Duration: 1.75 hours

Maximum Weight: 110kg

Details

Exploring Rotorua’s Volcanic Wonders

Flying over White Island offers a dramatic look at New Zealand’s most active marine volcano, where steam vents and sulphur deposits create a surreal landscape. This island is constantly evolving, with its 2019 eruption a reminder of its untamed power. In contrast, Mount Tarawera’s vast craters tell the story of the 1886 eruption that reshaped Rotorua forever.

Landing on Tarawera’s summit reveals a striking panorama of lakes, valleys, and native bush stretching to the horizon. The guided walk across the mountain’s rugged surface gives travellers a close connection to its dramatic past. With the pilot also acting as storyteller and photographer, it’s both an adventure and a history lesson in one.

Helicopter flying over White Island (Whakaari), New Zealand’s most active marine volcano

Sun setting behind the volcanic peak of White Island, viewed from the air

Smiling woman standing in front of a helicopter on Mount Tarawera summit

Helicopter and group beside Mount Tarawera’s massive crater

Group walking along the rim of Mount Tarawera crater under a clear morning sky

Helicopter flying past the dramatic cliffs of Tarawera Falls, Rotorua

Geothermal steam vents rising from bush-clad cliffs at Lake Rotomahana

Bright blue Inferno Crater Lake emitting geothermal steam

Aerial view of Sulphur Bay and Rotorua Lakefront with geothermal waters and cityscape in the background

Scenic Highlights Beyond the Volcanoes

The flight doesn’t just focus on the volcanoes; it sweeps over Tarawera Falls, where water surges through ancient lava flows in a spectacular cascade. Views of Waimangu Volcanic Valley and shimmering crater lakes add even more depth to the experience. Fertile farmland, forestry, and distant national parks create a vivid contrast to the volcanic landscapes below.

Every angle of the journey reveals something new, from geothermal wonders to untouched wilderness. The commentary enriches the scenery with cultural heritage and geological insights, ensuring the flight is as educational as it is breathtaking. It’s a rare chance to witness both the raw force of nature and the beauty it has shaped across Rotorua.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Duration: Allow 1 hour 45 minutes.
Location: All tours depart from Lakefront Drive, Rotorua City Lakefront.
Requirements: Wear comfortable closed-toe walking shoes and clothes suitable for the weather. It's always a good idea to bring a jacket, sunscreen, and a camera!
Safety: A full safety briefing will be provided at the Volcanic Air Base. All passengers will be weighed to ensure proper weight distribution in the aircraft.

INCLUSIONS

1 hour 25 minute scenic flight
20 minute walking tour of the summit of Mount Tarawera
Tour duration, flight times, and inclusions may vary due to weather, volcanic activity, and passenger load
Excursion landings are at your own risk and at the pilot’s sole discretion

AGE INFORMATION

Adult: 12 years +
Children: 2-11 years
Infant: Under 2 years (free charge)

Passenger Weight: Individual weights must be advised at the time of booking. If an individual passenger weight exceeds 110kgs a surcharge may apply. Any passenger exceeding 135kgs will be required to pay two adult fares.

CANCELLATION & REFUND

Cancel 30+ days before: Full refund**
Cancel 8-30 days before: 25% fee**
Cancel 2-7 days before: 75% fee**
Cancel within 48 hours: No refund.

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card, payment or booking fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

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