Headout logo. Link to home.
Help
Airplane Tours

Guided Tour of Mount Tarawera & Waimangu Thermal Valley in a Floatplane from Rotorua

Boarding the floatplane
Floatplane flying over Mount Tarawera
Mount Tarawera
Waimangu thermal valley

Examine the revered Mount Tarawera and craters at Waimangu Thermal Valley from above in a stylish floatplane on the 30-minute Eruption Trail Tour.

Highlights

  • Embark on a scenic floatplane tour of Rotorua’s thermal reserves and the central volcano Mount Tarawera’s summit on the 30-minute Eruption Trail Tour.

  • Fly 3680 feet above and observe the 8 km-long volcano rift along the Mount Tarawera summit.

  • Marvel at the aerial views of the Waimangu Thermal Valley and its vibrant Inferno Crater and Frying Pan Lake.

  • While landing on Rotorua Lake, soak in the views of the dormant volcano, craters, lakes, and sizzling pools at Whakarewarewa thermal reserve.

  • Fun Fact: Waimangu is the sole geothermal system in New Zealand that has all surface features present on a single geological structure.

Inclusions

  • 30-minute guided floatplane tour

  • Safety briefing

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 3 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Rotorua in New Zealand is culturally and geographically rich, welcoming visitors from all over the world. One of the best ways to view the full magnitude of the region’s grandeur is from above. The Eruption Trail Tour via floatplane allows travelers to experience these geothermal highlights effortlessly.

Soar Above Mount Tarawera

Step onto the floatplane and take off from Rotorua Lake. Surrender to the sensational vistas below you as you ascend to 3680 feet. Pass by Mokoia Island, notice the hidden Lakes District, and catch sight of the central volcano in the area, Mount Tarawera. Discover the site of the 1886 eruption that destroyed the breathtaking ‘Pink and White Terraces’ that once stood here.

Admire Waimangu Thermal Valley

Soar above Waimangu Thermal Valley and marvel at enormous craters created by eruptions, geysers, mud pools, and more. Don’t miss out on the Inferno Crater and Frying Pan Lake. Also, remember to take as many photographs as possible before returning to Rotorua.

Important Information

  • Tour timings and flight landings may vary based on weather conditions and volcanic activity.

  • Please note that the flight operates with a minimum of two adult fares.

  • Children under 2 years may join the tour free of charge. Children from 2 to 11 years will be charged 75% of the adult fee.

Restrictions

  • Bags and packs are not permitted on the helicopter.

  • Photography without flash or tripods is permissible.

  • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

  • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

  • Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

Meeting Point

  • Meet us at our office - Volcanic Air.

  • Address: City Lakefront Lakefront Drive, Ohinemutu, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand.

Get Directions to the Meeting Point

Getting There

By Bus

  • The closest bus stop is Rotorua Hospital - North (Pukeroa Street). It is a quick 9-minute walk to the meeting point.

  • Board buses #1 or #6 to get you there.

Similar experiences you'd love

Free cancellation
Mitai Maori performers in traditional attire during cultural experience, Rotorua, New Zealand.
Guided Tours
Mitai Maori Village Cultural Experience & Buffet Dinner
Instant confirmation
New
NZ$169
Free cancellation
Waitomo Caves tour group exploring glowworm-lit caverns, Rotorua geothermal features, Te Puia cultural site.
Guided Tours
From Auckland: Waitomo Caves, Rotorua & Te Puia Guided Tour
Instant confirmation
New
from
NZ$349
Free cancellation
A group of visitors with a guide gathered around a block of jade at Mountain Jade
Guided Tours
40 Mins Jade Carving Rotorua Guided Tour
Instant confirmation
New
NZ$45
Free cancellation
Hobbiton movie set with lush greenery on Rotorua tour, Te Puia geysers in background.
Guided Tours
From Auckland: Hobbiton, Rotorua, & Te Puia Guided Tour
Instant confirmation
New
NZ$399
Free cancellation
Maori performers in traditional attire at Te Pā Tū, Rotorua, showcasing cultural experience with seasonal cuisine.

World at your tap.

Get the Headout app to get tickets on your phone and access app-only deals. Talk about win-win.
Download iPhone appDownload Android app
iphone

We've served 33 million+ guests and we are here for you

33 million+

Happy customers across 10,000+ experiences

4.4/5

28,000+ verified reviews with 90% excellent score

In the media

Featured and recommended by the best brands

24 x 7 help center

Have a question? Live chat with local experts anywhere, anytime