Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park is a geothermal attraction on the Waikato River between Rotorua and Taupō — 45 minutes from Rotorua and 25 minutes from Taupō. The park contains New Zealand’s most active geyser field with up to 23 active natural geysers, extensive silica terraces, and the country’s only accessible geothermal cave. A 2.5-kilometre boardwalk circuit covers the main features in 1.5 to 2 hours. The park is only accessible by a short ferry crossing from the visitor centre; the boat trip is included in the entry price. Entry is NZ$57 for adults.
Practical Information
| Location | 494 Orakeikorako Road — 45 minutes from Rotorua, 25 minutes from Taupō |
| Access | Short ferry crossing from the visitor centre (included in entry) |
| Entry | NZ$57 adults; NZ$24 children (16 and under); NZ$144 family (2 adults + 2 children); under 6 free |
| Walk | 2.5km boardwalk circuit; allow 1.5–2 hours at a leisurely pace |
| Grade | Medium — well-marked boardwalks, stairs in sections |
| Website | orakeikorako.co.nz |
The Geyser Field and Terraces
Orakei Korako is less visited than the major Rotorua attractions but arguably more geologically active. The park holds up to 23 naturally erupting geysers — the most active geyser field in New Zealand — along with extensive silica terraces that colour the valley in tones of white, orange and gold. The Rainbow Terrace and Emerald Terrace are the two main silica formations, built up over centuries by mineral-rich geothermal water flowing across the surface and depositing silica as it cools. The boardwalk route winds between active geysers, bubbling mud pools, and steaming vents across the valley floor.
The Cave
New Zealand’s only accessible geothermal cave is at the far end of the Orakei Korako boardwalk. The cave — formed within the silica terrace — contains Waiwhakaata (Pool of Mirrors), a crystal-clear geothermal pool at the cave floor that reflects the cave ceiling. The water temperature in the cave pool is warm and the reflection effect from the still surface is striking. The cave is a short descent from the terrace above; the boardwalk leads in and back out.
“Orakei Korako surprised us — we’d been to Wai-O-Tapu and Waimangu but this felt completely different. The cave and the Pool of Mirrors were unlike anything else, and having the place nearly to ourselves made it special.” — visitor account
Where to Learn More
Orakei Korako — Visit Information — current prices, opening hours, and what to expect.
New Zealand Tourism — Orakei Korako — visitor overview and how to get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Orakei Korako?
On Orakeikorako Road, between Rotorua and Taupō. Allow 45 minutes from central Rotorua or 25 minutes from Taupō. It is south of Rotorua via SH5 — look for the turn-off onto Orakeikorako Road.
How much does entry cost?
NZ$57 for adults; NZ$24 for children 16 and under; NZ$144 for a family of two adults and two or more children. Children under 6 are free. All prices include the ferry crossing.
How do you get into the park?
A short ferry trip from the visitor centre across the Waikato River — the boat fare is included in the entry price. The geothermal valley is only accessible by boat, which keeps visitor numbers lower than many other Rotorua attractions.
How long does the walk take?
The 2.5km boardwalk circuit takes 1.5 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace. The walk includes stairs at some points.
Is the cave included in entry?
Yes — the geothermal cave and Pool of Mirrors are part of the standard circuit and included in the entry price.
How many geysers are there?
Up to 23 active geysers have been counted in the park — the largest active geyser field in New Zealand. Eruption timing varies; some geysers erupt regularly, others sporadically.
Orakei Korako is on the road corridor between Rotorua and Taupō. See the Waimangu Volcanic Valley guide and the Wai-O-Tapu guide for other geothermal options in the Rotorua region.
