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Helicopter Tours

Guided Tour of White island & Mount Tarawera with a Volcanic Walk

White island Whakaari Aerial
Tourists at Mount Tarawera Top
Tourists at Mount Tarawera
Tourists at Mount Tarawera during sunset

Take a scenic helicopter ride over White Island and Mount Tarawera with a 20-minute walk to the summit on the 1.75-hour tour.

Highlights

  • Sight New Zealand’s most famous volcanoes, White Island and Mount Tarawera, from a helicopter and trek to the peak on the Volcanic Helicopter Tour!

  • Witness the active crater of White Island on a comfortable flight and the dormant Mount Tarawera with its post-eruption geothermal landscape.

  • Examine the diverse geography of the region, including its lakes, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, forests, farmlands, and more.

  • Follow the guide up to the summit on a 20-minute walking tour and revel in breathtaking views.

  • Fun Fact: Mount Tarawera is considered by the Ngati Rangitihi Māori tribe. The ‘Pink and White’ Terraces were famously known as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, until the eruption.

Inclusions

  • Scenic flight over geothermal reserves

  • Guided walk to Mount Tarawera summit

Cancellation policy

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

Rotorua in the Bay Plenty Region of New Zealand is known for two massive volcanoes that have wreaked havoc in the country’s past. On this tour, travelers observe the ferocious ‘Whakaari’ White Island volcano from the skies. At the end of the flight, stunning panoramas from the top of Mount Tarawera await!

Helicopter Ride Over Volcanoes

Look out below at the undulated, colorful landscapes in Rotorua, offsetting the calming waters of the Pacific Ocean and the crater lakes. Observe Whakaari in its ever-changing form and note the unique shape of the island, formed after its last eruption in 2019. Further inland, above the central North Island landscape, see Mount Tarawera with its many domes and hot springs created by the devastating eruption in 1886. Take in views of the rest of Waimangu Volcanic Valley, lakes, farmland, forests, horticultural land, and national parks along the way.

Guided Walk Up Mount Tarawera

After the helicopter lands at Mount Tarawera, begin the ascent up to the summit with the guide in the lead. Walk for 20 minutes to reap the reward of the most picturesque views of the volcanic crater and the natural surroundings, including a waterfall. Hear the ancient legends that give the region its character before heading back to the helicopter to return to the city.

Important Information

  • Flight timings and visibility may vary based on unpredictable weather conditions.

  • Please check the day’s climate forecast to determine the appropriate attire. Sturdy, closed walking shoes and a jacket are recommended for mountain climbing.

  • A moderate level of physical fitness is required for the walking tour.

Restrictions

  • Bags and packs are not permitted onboard.

  • Photography without flash or tripods is permitted.

  • 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 your guide at 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 7-minute walk to the meeting point.

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

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