Mount Tarawera Heli Landing & Geothermal Parks

North Island

Volcanic Air

from

NZ$950

per adult

Book Now

Wide aerial view of Frying Pan Lake steaming inside Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Experiences

Helicopter Scenic Flights

Hot Springs and Geothermal Attractions

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Rotorua

Travel Time: 1 hour

Maximum Weight: 110kg

Details

Scenic Wonders from the Sky

From the moment your helicopter lifts off, Rotorua’s beauty unfolds in every direction. Flying over Lake Rotorua, you’ll see the volcanic caldera give way to lush bush and farmland. Crater lakes sparkle below, offering a view of all 18 if you keep a keen eye out.

The flight continues over the Tarawera River, where the dramatic Tarawera Falls bursts through the cliff face in a 65-metre cascade. The clear waters and rugged landscape highlight the power and grace of nature. This aerial perspective makes it easy to see why Rotorua is so celebrated for fishing, boating, and outdoor adventure.

Helicopter flying above Mount Tarawera's volcanic crater with Lake Tarawera in the distance

Small group walking away from a landed helicopter on Mount Tarawera’s summit

Couple posing beside the colourful crater slopes of Mount Tarawera

Woman in pink jacket sitting at the crater rim overlooking Mount Tarawera’s volcanic landscape

Aerial view of Lake Tarawera surrounded by native forest during a scenic floatplane flight with Volcanic Air

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

Bright blue Inferno Crater Lake emitting geothermal steam

Alt tag: Aerial photo of Orakei Korako geothermal features beside the Waikato River

Top-down aerial of Champagne Pool in Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, Rotorua

Landing on Mount Tarawera

Landing on Mount Tarawera is a highlight that few travellers get to experience. Your pilot will guide you on a short walk around the summit, sharing stories of the 1886 eruption and its lasting impact. Surrounded by sweeping 360-degree views, you’ll gain insight into the region’s Māori history and volcanic legacy.

After exploring the crater, your journey continues along the volcanic rift line stretching 8 km across the mountain. The scale of the eruption becomes clear as you fly toward Lake Rotomahana and Waimangu Volcanic Valley. From here, the geothermal spectacle extends to Wai-O-Tapu, where vibrant pools like the Artist’s Palette and Champagne Pool create a colourful finale.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Duration: Allow 1 hour
Location: All flights depart from Lakefront Drive, Rotorua City Lakefront
Requirements: This flight requires a minimum of 2 adult fares

Tour duration, flight times, and inclusions may vary due to weather conditions, volcanic activity, and passenger load. Excursion landings are at your own risk and at the pilot’s sole discretion.

HIGHLIGHTS

Enjoy a scenic take-off and landing from Lake Rotorua.
Take in incredible views of Mokoia Island, Sulphur Bay, and Rotorua City.
Marvel at the stunning sight of 12 unique crater lakes.
Fly over the Tarawera Falls and Tarawera River.
Soar above the 8km rift line and craters of Mount Tarawera, a dormant volcano.
Land on Mount Tarawera’s summit for a 15-minute guided walk.
Hop back on the helicopter to explore the Pacific Rim of Fire fault line, with views of Waimangu Volcanic Valley and Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park, famous for their colourful geothermal features.
Learn about the region’s geography and cultural heritage with expert commentary.

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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