In recent years the Rotorua District Council and Environment Bay of Plenty have been working hard to reverse the damage of what was once a dead lake.

  • Location: Rotorua, Central North Island, NZ
  • Distance: 2.3 km
  • Time needed: 1 hour
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Wheelchair Access: In parts
  • Route: Loop
  • Wet Feet: No
  • Toilets: Yes
  • Dogs: Yes
  • Mobile Coverage: Yes

SAVE 51% on last-minute tickets to Waimangu Volcanic Valley – Walk and Boat Cruise

Just before the turn-off to Highway 38 to Murupara and Lake Waikaremoana, unless it is raining, you will see Rainbow Mountain. Looking very close, you might see the transmitter and fire watcher hut sitting on the very top of Rainbow Mountain.

I was surprised to see how very clean the toilets were this far out in the country, yes it is strange to talk about toilets, but when you are on the road and need a pit stop, it’s good to see a clean fresh-smelling toilet.

A short boardwalk has been built around the wetland so you can stretch your legs and maybe spot a rare teal duck or an eel swimming under your feet, it wakes you up from that long exhausting drive very quickly.

If you are driving on to Rotorua, for a change of scenery, drive back along the Okaro Rd, you will pass the Waimanga Thermal Valley on the right-hand side of the road.  You will have to dig out a few $ from your pocket to gain entry. 

Don’t try your hand at trout fishing, without buying a fishing license. You can lose your fishing gear and car to the government without one.

See more of my walks in Rotorua