Orakei Korako: The Hidden Valley

North Island

Orakei Korako Geyserland Resort

from

NZ$47

per adult

Family walking past Rainbow Terrace signpost in Orakei Korako geothermal park

Experiences

Hot Springs and Geothermal Attractions

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Orakei Korako

Locations: Taupō, Rotorua

Duration: 90 mins

Details

The Spectacular Landscapes of Orakei Korako

Tucked within the heart of the Taupō Volcanic Zone, Orakei Korako showcases nature’s artistry through vivid geysers, steaming vents, and glowing terraces. The 2.5-kilometre boardwalk offers a close look at these geothermal wonders, revealing new sights around every corner. From the jade-green Emerald Terrace to the shimmering silica formations, every step unveils something extraordinary.

A short ferry ride across Lake Ohakuri is the only way to reach this remarkable valley, adding a sense of adventure before you even arrive. Families, photographers, and nature lovers alike find endless inspiration in its dynamic landscape. Whether it’s the hiss of steam or the ripple of bubbling pools, Orakei Korako delivers a true connection to New Zealand’s geothermal heart.

Tour boat moored at the Orakei Korako jetty on Lake Ohakuri under a cloudy blue sky

Steam rising from the geothermal terraces at Orakei Korako reflected on the calm surface of Lake Ohakuri

Boardwalk winding through steaming silica terraces at Orakei Korako with Lake Ohakuri in the background

Visitors pausing along the geothermal boardwalk at Orakei Korako

Bubbling grey mud pool in active geothermal area at Orakei Korako

Geothermal pool with blue water and golden silica terraces at Orakei Korako

Boardwalk weaving through colourful silica formations at Orakei Korako

Aerial view of the Hidden Valley geothermal features surrounded by native bush at Orakei Korako

Close-up of pink and orange silica terrace patterns at Orakei Korako

Layered silica terraces and hot spring pools at Orakei Korako geothermal park

Group observing geothermal features on a guided walk at Orakei Korako

Father and daughters exploring the boardwalk at Orakei Korako geothermal park

Geothermal stream and silica formations with steam rising at Orakei Korako

Bright blue thermal pool surrounded by white and orange silica at Orakei Korako

Metal boardwalk winding through lush native forest at Orakei Korako Geothermal Park

Looking up from the bottom of Ruatapu Cave at Orakei Korako, with sunlight streaming past tree ferns

Cascade Terrace covered in vibrant orange silica at Orakei Korako

Family walking their dog on a geothermal boardwalk at Orakei Korako

Family admiring the geothermal terraces from a lookout at Orakei Korako

Steaming geothermal feature with yellow silica at Orakei Korako

Photographer capturing geothermal steam and silica deposits at Orakei Korako

Colourful geothermal pool at the edge of native forest in Orakei Korako

Couple admiring the white silica terrace from a lookout at Orakei Korako

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

Close-up of bubbling geothermal pool with vibrant mineral deposits at Orakei Korako

Boardwalk crossing over colourful geothermal terraces at Orakei Korako

Parents and young child exploring steaming geothermal features at Orakei Korako

Map of Africa geothermal pool reflecting the surrounding boardwalk at Orakei Korako

Nature’s Thermal Masterpiece Revealed

One of Orakei Korako’s most fascinating features is the Ruatapu Cave, one of only two geothermal caves on Earth. Its warm pool, nestled deep within the rock, glows with an ethereal blue light that feels almost otherworldly. The surrounding landscape, constantly reshaped by geothermal activity, reminds visitors of the earth’s living power.

After exploring, take time to relax at the MudCake Café with a hot drink or a freshly baked treat while soaking in panoramic lake views. The nearby gift shop offers locally inspired souvenirs, capturing the essence of this unique geothermal wonderland. Orakei Korako truly is a hidden gem where natural beauty and serenity meet in perfect harmony.

INCLUSIONS

Entry to Ōrakei Kōrako Cave & Thermal Park
Self-guided exploration of the park
Return ferry transfers between the visitor centre and the geothermal area (on demand)
Baby backpacks for children under two years old are available for free

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Operating Hours:
- Open daily from 8:00 AM.
- Last ferry departs for the park at 4:00 PM, and the final return ferry leaves at 5:00 PM.
Walking Track Details:
- The walk takes 60–90 minutes on a boardwalk with some stairs, making it unsuitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
- The area is 3–5°C warmer than the Visitor Centre, so carry water, especially in warmer months.
- Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed and social with others.
Accessibility: While the walk isn’t wheelchair-friendly, the Visitor Centre and café are accessible, with pathways designed for inclusivity.
Swimming Policy: The hot pools reach boiling temperatures and are not safe for swimming. However, a lake-edge beach is available for a cold swim during summer.

CANCELLATION & REFUNDS

Bookings come with flexible dates and remain valid for up to 12 months from the date of purchase.
Tickets are non-refundable but can be transferred to another person.
Booking changes are flexible.

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

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

Frequently asked questions

Slips Trips and Falls: Customers are advised that the park contains boardwalks that are exposed to the elements and may be slippery at times and a number of stairs are present. Please take care with your footing and keep an eye on where you step to avoid slips trips and falls.
Burns: Geothermal areas contain hot water and steam. The ground off the track can be extremely fragile and have boiling water running through it. Please treat all water as hot and stay on the pathways at all times. There is the potential for hot material to splash, so we recommend full length clothing and covered shoes.
Dehydration/Exhaustion: The park is generally hotter than on the Visitors Centre side of the river and the walk requires a basic level of fitness to complete. Ensure you take enough water and are fit enough to complete the walk and be able to be evacuated if necessary.
Fire: There is a risk of fire in the bush surrounding the park. The park is a no smoking area to prevent fires. In the event of a fire please report immediately to the staff via the radios at the first aid points and follow all instructions given by the loudspeaker.
Geothermal event / Earthquake: Geothermal zones are unpredictable and located in geologically active areas. A major geothermal event or earthquake is possible. In the event of a major geothermal event or earthquake please follow the instructions of the staff. The pathways are located in areas of relative safety. Stay on the pathways at all times.
Drowning/Crushing: The docks are a location where heavy machinery is operating near water and are a high-risk zone. Please stay off the docks unless indicated to by the skipper of the ferry. While aboard the ferry passengers must follow instructions given to them by the skipper.
Unsupervised children: Geothermal zones are dangerous for children who are unsupervised as they may not be able to recognize unfamiliar risks. All children must be directly supervised at all times while in the park.

It is the responsibility of people visiting the park to abide by all safety advice given to them and act in a safe manner at all times.

If you wish to know more about any of these risks, please ask the friendly staff upon arrival.

Driving Directions

From Rotorua: Travel south on State Highway 5. The turnoff to Orakei Korako is 3 km south of Golden Springs. Turn right onto Tutukau Road and continue for 16 km, then turn right onto Orakei Korako Road. Follow this road for a further 5 km until you reach the end. The approximate driving time from Rotorua is 45 minutes.

From Taupo: Head north on State Highway 1 towards Hamilton. The turnoff to Orakei Korako is 14 km from the junction of State Highways 1 and 5 at Wairakei. Turn right onto Tutukau Road and drive for 9 km, then turn left onto Orakei Korako Road. Continue for 5 km to the end of the road. The approximate driving time from Taupo is 25 minutes.

The GPS coordinates for Orakei Korako are Latitude 38°28.429'S / Longitude 176°08.582'E (-38 28.429, 176 8.582 / 38°28'25.7"S 176°08'34.9"E). Please note that some GPS devices may provide incorrect directions, so ensure your device is guiding you to the location shown on the map.

Please note that there is no public boat ramp at Orakei Korako. However, there is a public ramp at Tutukau Bridge on Tutukau Road, just a five-minute drive from The Hidden Valley.

Our Visitor Centre includes a souvenir shop, a café, and modern toilet facilities. A full upgrade of Orakei Korako was completed in 2011, enhancing the grounds, shop, and amenities, as well as introducing a custom-built ferry.

What can I find in the souvenir shop?

Our souvenir shop offers a wide range of mud beauty products, t-shirts, hats, magnets, and other memorabilia—perfect for a keepsake or gift. All items are available at the best prices.

What does the MudCake Café offer?

The MudCake Café serves freshly brewed espresso, cappuccino, and hot chocolate, as well as delicious pies, sandwiches, and fresh baking. There are also kid-friendly options like fluffies.

Can I buy alcoholic drinks at the café?

Yes, the café is licensed, so you can enjoy a glass of wine or beer after exploring the geothermal area.

Is there outdoor seating with a view?

Absolutely! You can relax on the riverside deck, which offers stunning views of Lake Ohakuri. Alternatively, you’re welcome to enjoy a picnic on the large grass area above our lakeside beach.