Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
laden waters from the nearby Wairakei geothermal steamfield cascade over silica terraces
into pools (open to those 14 years and over) nestled in serene native gardens. Take a
therapeutic soak and a self-guided tour on the
Terraces Walkway
. On this you'll find a
re-created Maori village, carvings depicting the history of NZ, Maori and local
iwi
Ngati
Tuwahretoa, and artificially made geysers and silica terraces, that re-create, on a smaller
scale, the famous Pink and White Terraces, which were destroyed by the Tarawera erup-
tion in 1886.
The nighttime
Maori Cultural Experience
(adult/child $98/49)
- which includes a tra-
ditional challenge, welcome, concert, tour and
hangi
meal - gives an insight into Maori
life in the geothermal areas.
WORTH A TRIP
ORAKEI KORAKO
child $36/15)
gets fewer visitors than other thermal areas. Yet, since the destruction
of the Pink and White Terraces, it is arguably the best thermal area left in NZ, even
though two-thirds of the original site now lies beneath a dammed section of the
Waikato River.
A walking track follows stairs and boardwalks around the colourful
silica terraces
for which the park is famous, and passes
geysers
and
Ruatapu Cave
(allow 1½
hours). This impressive natural cave has a jade-green pool, thought to have been
used as a mirror by Maori women preparing for rituals (Orakei Korako means 'The
Place of Adorning'). Entry includes the boat ride across the lake from the pleasant
visitor centre and cafe.
It's about 30 minutes to Orakei Korako from Taupo. Take SH1 towards Hamilton
for 23km, and then travel for 14km from the signposted turn-off. From Rotorua the
turn-off is on SH5, via Mihi. You can also arrive via the NZ River Jet (
Click here
)
.
Activities
Tramping & Cycling
07-377 4346; taupo@packandpedal.co.nz; 5 Tamamutu St; full day $35)
or
Cornershop Cycles
OFFLINE MAP
(
07-378 7381; craig@cornershop.co.nz; cnr Horomatangi &
GOOGLE MAP
Ruapehu Sts; half/full day $35/50)
.
