Craters of the moon
Volcanic activity, the power of earth’s energy is very evident at lunar Craters of the Moon. Stunted vegetation, silica licked earth and boiling mud make for a great place to take kids. Their imagination is captivated by the sheer stark contrast between the Crater landscape and the lush NZ bush. The area is wheelchair accessible meaning children in buggies can be easily transported without parents arms getting tired carrying toddlers. Watch for steam pouring from vents in the earth and observe the buckling of the boardwalks as unexpected steam makes its appearance.
A 1.7-mile (2.7-kilometer) walkway loops around the Craters of the Moon Site, and offers unobstructed views of the vents and pools. On a clear day, you can see Lake Taupo and the peaks of Tongariro National Park from the park.
Grab an aerial view and take a helicopter tour. Soar over the Craters of the Moon, Lake Taupo, Huka Falls, and Wairakei Natural Thermal Valley.
Things to Know Before You Visit Craters of the Moon, Taupo
- The geothermal activity of the area means that the ground and water can be very hot, so wear comfortable closed-toe shoes and ensure you stay on the path.
- Allow about 45 minutes to complete the trail.
- The walking track is a mixture of boardwalk-style walkways and gravel paths, meaning that it’s accessible to wheelchair and stroller users.
- There’s little shade here, so be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat
- Admission fees
- Gift shop and toilets on site
Where is the Craters of the Moon located?
Craters of the Moon is about a 10-minute drive north of Taupo. Follow the Thermal Explorer Highway north and take the Karapiti Road turnoff—there’s parking at the site. If you’re not driving, it’s best to take a taxi or come as part of a tour.
One of the few thermal attractions that is wheelchair accessible. Easy gravel / boardwalks for children. Public toilets at the site. Activity child friendly. A well stocked gift shop to tempt the visitor to spend their tourist dollars. Reasonable prices and most items are good quality.
Admission fees website explanation, “From 2002 the Trust was required to pay site land rental fees to the government for the Craters area and from that time entry fees have been charged…”
Plan between 1 hour – 2 hours for your visit to Craters of the Moon, Taupo.
Lake Taupo – let’s play
Taupo’s natural world star attraction is water, either massive lakes or massive waterfalls with a stunning sideshow of geothermal energy gushing and steaming over boardwalks. Lake Taupo is a crater lake from an ancient eruption 300,000 years ago. The area is volcanically active with intriguing geothermal hot spots.
The lake is approximately the size of Singapore with outflows such as Huka waterfalls a visitor spectacle. Visitor towns include Taupo and Turangi offering fishing enthusiasts a chance to throw a line for dinner.
The trophy is mouth watering freshwater fish, trout. The massive lake (622 square km) is an inviting place for numerous water sports and adventures rivalling its southern counterpart Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown.
BEST BITS TRAVEL GUIDE
Best Bits travel guide is published by nzjane.com. Owned and managed by PacificJane Ltd.
Our editors independently visit tour operators, purchase tickets, pay for accommodation, and rate products and places. We are not paid to go on a tour or visit a place. We only make money if you decide to purchase a product through our website links. We promise to never accept free products from manufacturers in return for boosting their products. Read more about our affiliate programme in the terms and conditions HERE.
