Orakei Korako is arguably the best thermal area left in New Zealand
Lonely Planet Guide

Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave

Welcome to Orakei Korako - The Hidden Valley!

Come and explore a volcanic world of gushing geysers, hot springs, bubbling mud pools and some of the largest and most amazing silica terraces in the world.

Wander through the Hidden Valley and visit the thermal Ruatapu Cave which extends more than 36m down into volcanic tuff to the 'Waiwhakaata' or 'Pool of Mirrors' hot pool at the bottom.

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Geothermal Experience

Orakei Korako boasts the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. Up to 23 active natural geysers play freely through the area, which is constantly changing. Marvel at the number of boiling hot springs and the vibrant colours all around you, or take a native bushwalk through this untouched geothermal paradise. The Lonely Planet Guide describes Orakei Korako as "...arguably the best thermal area left in New Zealand".

Geothermal Formations

Orakei Korako's Geothermal Experience

Somewhat 'off the beaten track', the Hidden Valley lies nestled in the Taupo Volcanic Zone between Taupo and Rotorua. Orakei Korako is a mere 25 minute drive from Taupo and 45 from Rotorua, and not far from State Highway 1 and State Highway 5. If you don't feel like driving, why not take a shuttle, float plane or helicopter instead?

This is a great activity for anyone staying in Taupo or Rotorua, whether you're a tourist, a local, or simply someone looking to enjoy a unique slice of New Zealand. And Orakei Korako offers a tourism experience without the thronging crowds.

Feel free to bring the whole family - even your dog!  Start your adventure with a piping hot latté from our MudCake Café - and finish with delicious fresh baking and a glass of wine. Stay connected while you're here with free wi-fi at the Visitor Centre.

Admission prices include the ferry trip to and from the attraction, along with entrance to the valley and cave. The ferry runs on demand from 8am each morning, with the last trips leaving at 4pm.  Get your tickets today - we're looking forward to meeting you!

Soda Fountain

Prices

Adults: $49
Children (16 & Under): $23
Families (2 Adults & 2+ Children): $132
Under 6's are free

Please note that bookings have flexible dates and are valid for up to a year from the date of purchase.

 

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  • Like stepping back to a pre-historic time- almost like a private tour fascinating and beautifully looked after site

    A really good family visit, perfect for teenagers for a couple of hours exploring the site and seeing up close lots of geothermal wonders. It was a beautifully presented little adventure, from crossing the lake by boat to then exploring the site on the boardwalks- we felt as close as you could get to the silica terraces, bubbling hot springs, gases and mud pools. The book we bought from the ticket desk was a very good guide explaining how everything was formed- I would recommend buying it as we learn a lot and it helped us navigate the site.

    tanyar555, TripAdvisor

  • It’s an easy 5-star for me.

    Had an absolutely fantastic time at Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave! It’s an easy 5-star for me.

    First off, the staff? Super lovely. From helping us navigate the geothermal wonders to sharing insights, their friendliness added a special touch to the experience. Kudos!

    Now, let’s talk about the food – delightful! Whether it was a quick snack or a heartier bite, the flavors were on point. A big shoutout to the kitchen crew for serving up goodness.

    Amin, Trip Advisor

  • Oh. The colours. Most colourful and best value geothermal experience in the region.

    When you arrive, you hop on a boat (after a safety briefing) for a scenic 5 min trip across Lake Ohakuri (on the Waikato River) to the thermal area. The tracks are very well marked and in excellent condition - almost completely elevated timber walkways. You can get close enough to put your hand in the warm/hot water in places. But it is the magnificent range of colours that set this place apart. You only get a sense of them from the photos, come and see it in real life for the full experience. There is a short walk and a longer walk. Do the longer walk if you can.

    RedNectarChris on TripAdvisor

  • This is a Brilliant Site to See

    This is a brilliant site to see some easily accesible geothermal activity. A nice little boat trip across the river and a pleasant two kilometre plus stroll around the site makes for a pleasant hour or so viewing some amazing natural phenomena.

    AllanJGJ - TripAdvisor

  • An excellent experience well worth visiting!

    This is why you go - to get as close to raw nature as possible - and you will see it up close.

    antoniosk - TripAdvisor

“It is our goal to deliver to our visitors the highest standard of service and present to them this very special phenomena known as Orakei Korako in as natural a state as possible. It is our responsibility to care for, protect and nurture this magnificent feature’s environment and its heritage.”

Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park