Take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand on the summit of a dormant volcano! You will witness breathtaking panoramic views of Rotorua’s sparkling lakes, expansive forests and multiple geothermal parks.
Departing from the Rotorua Lakefront, your helicopter will fly over Lakes Rotorua, Okareka, Okataina, and Tarawera. As you ascend over the shoulder of Mount Tarawera, you’ll hear about the Wilding Pine conservation work that all landing fees support. Without this work over the past 30 years, the mountain summit would be thick with invasive pines. As it is, you can now marvel at the rugged beauty and vibrant colors of the volcanic crater as your pilot flies you through the 8 km rift line, remnant of the largest volcanic eruption in New Zealand’s living memory.
Upon landing, you will have about 15 minutes to explore the summit on foot – gaining insights into the region’s rich Māori history and taking in the 360-degree views. On clear days, you can see from the east to west coast of the North Island, with the active volcanoes of White Island to the north and Tongariro National Park to the south. Your pilot will act as a guide, historian and photographer, ensuring you will return to the Lakefront with memories to last a lifetime.
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