Craters of the Moon

Taupo


This geothermal area sprang to life when hydroelectric tinkering around the power station in 1958 caused water levels to fall. The pressure shifted, creating new steam vents and bubbling mud pools. The gentle 2.7km walk takes about 45 minutes and loops through a mass of steaming features. A side track constructed in late 2019 adds a five-minute climb to perhaps the most impressive crater, which hisses like a factory boiler.

It's more active from June through August when it's cold and wet (from December through February, summer can dry everything out). It's signposted from SH1, at the Hub, about 5km north of Taupō.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Taupo attractions

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2. Huka Falls Lookout

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Excellent spot to view spectacular Huka Falls. From the car park, cross the bridge and turn left.

3. Wairakei Natural Thermal Valley

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4. Taupō Museum

2.96 MILES

This small but fascinating museum has an excellent Māori gallery and quirky displays, which include a 1960s caravan set up as if the occupants have just…

5. Hot Water Beach

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6. Aratiatia Rapids

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Two kilometres off SH5, this gorge was a spectacular part of the Waikato River until a hydroelectric dam was plonked across the waterway, shutting off the…

7. Aratiatia Lookouts

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The best spot to watch the raging Aratiatia Rapids. The first lookout is an easy five-minute walk from the rapids' car park, while the upper lookout takes…

8. Māori Rock Carvings

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