Mount Tarawera & Orakei Korako Helicopter Dual Landing

North Island

Volcanic Air

from

NZ$1395

per adult

Book Now

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

Experiences

Helicopter Scenic Flights

Hot Springs and Geothermal Attractions

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Rotorua

Travel Time: 3 hours

Maximum Weight: 110kg

Details

Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Rotorua

Your journey begins with take-off from Lake Rotorua, where sweeping views of the city, Mokoia Island, and Sulphur Bay stretch out below. From above, the patchwork of farmland and forest meets the shimmering lakes, each framed by rugged volcanic landscapes. Try spotting all 14 lakes as you ascend towards Mount Tarawera’s dramatic summit.

Flying over Mount Tarawera reveals the scars of its historic eruption, a volcanic rift stretching 17 kilometres across the land. Deep craters painted in shades of red and ochre tell the story of immense geological power. These colourful ridges are now home to lakes that conceal the lost Pink and White Terraces, once celebrated as the eighth wonder of the world.

Helicopter flying past the deep ravines and coloured cliffs of Mount Tarawera

Helicopter and group beside Mount Tarawera’s massive crater

Visitors enjoying views over the rugged summit and volcanic terrain of Mount Tarawera

Group hiking uphill with a helicopter parked in the distance on Mount Tarawera

Two women taking a selfie with Lake Tarawera and distant ridges behind them

Helicopter flying past the dramatic cliffs of Tarawera Falls, Rotorua

Bright blue Inferno Crater Lake emitting geothermal steam

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

Helicopter landing near steaming geothermal terraces at Orakei Korako

Visitors walking along a geothermal boardwalk over orange silica terraces at Orakei Korako

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

Volcanic Air helicopter taking off beside steaming terraces at Orakei Korako

Volcanic Air Cessna floatplane taking off near the steaming silica terraces of Ōrākei Kōrako

Colourful geothermal pools and silica terraces at Ōrākei Kōrako seen from above

Exploring the Hidden Valley of Orakei Korako

Descending southwards, the helicopter follows the Waikato River, winding its way to the secluded Orakei Korako valley. Landing here feels magical, surrounded by native bush and steaming geothermal features tucked away from the crowds. The adventure continues with an hour-long self-guided walk through a landscape that feels untouched by time.

Along the trails, geysers spout, mud pools bubble, and vivid silica terraces stretch across the valley floor. A thermal cave adds another layer of intrigue, offering a rare glimpse into this geothermal marvel. Before reboarding, you can relax with a coffee at the small café, soaking in the last views of this hidden gem before taking flight back to Rotorua.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Duration: Allow 3 hours, including approximately 1 hour touring the park
Location: All flights depart from Lakefront Drive, Rotorua City Lakefront
Requirements: This flight operates with 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

Take off and land gracefully from Lake Rotorua.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Mokoia Island, Sulphur Bay, and Rotorua City.
Admire the stunning sights of 12 unique crater lakes.
Fly over Tarawera Falls, Tarawera River, and the 8km rift line and craters of Mount Tarawera.
Land on Mount Tarawera’s summit for a 15-minute guided walk.
Board your helicopter again to fly over the Pacific Rim of Fire Faultline, leading to Waimangu Volcanic Valley and Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park, both known for their incredible colours and geothermal activity.
Land beside the Waikato River and enjoy a 1-hour self-guided tour of the “Hidden Valley” at Orakei Korako Geothermal Park.
Hear expert commentary on the area’s geography and cultural history throughout the tour.

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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