CURRENT WEATHER
WELCOME TO
CRATERS OF THE MOON
GEOTHERMAL WALK
Located just north of Taupō, Craters of the Moon is one of New Zealand’s most fascinating geothermal short walks. Set within the Taupō Volcanic Zone, this unique environment reveals the powerful forces beneath the earth’s surface through steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and dramatic geothermal craters.
Explore this remarkable 45 minute geothermal walk along safe boardwalks and viewing platforms, experiencing a constantly changing natural environment where steam still rises from the earth.
Kiosk Car Park
Upper walkway
Add 20 minutes to walk to the lookout. It’s a moderate walk with numerous steps. The view makes it well worth the effort!
Main walkway
40 minute loop walk
An easy grade suitable for most people of all ages. Track surface is a mixture of fine gravel and wooden boardwalks.
Main crater
Measuring 40m across, this is the largest crater in the park - its hard to miss!
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ADMISSION PRICES AND OPENING TIMES
OPENING TIMES
Craters of the Moon is open 364 days of the year (closed Christmas Day)
Opening Hours
9:30am to 5pm
Last entry strictly 4pm
ADMISSION PRICES
Adult - $10.00 per person
Child - $5.00 per child (5 to 15)
Under 5 years - Free
Senior - $5.00 per person
Family - $25 per family
(2 adults & maximum of 4 children)
Taupo Locals 1/2 price with proof of address
Craters of the Moon is a smokefree and vapefree site.
HISTORY OF
CRATERS OF THE MOON
Craters of the Moon lies within the Taupō Volcanic Zone, one of New Zealand’s most active geothermal regions, stretching from Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro in the south to White Island (Whakaari) in the Bay of Plenty. The dramatic geothermal landscape seen today has been evolving for more than 700 years, with underground activity appearing at the surface as steam vents, mud pools, hot springs and fumaroles.
Before there was a visitor centre, volunteers operated out of this campervan.
HEALTH & SAFETY
At Craters of the Moon, your safety is our top priority.
Please help us keep this special place safe for everyone by following these simple rules:
It is Your Responsibility to Stay on Marked Tracks
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The geothermal ground can be unstable and dangerously hot.
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Hot surfaces cause serious burns.
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Do not leave the paths or boardwalks at any time.
Follow All Safety Signs
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Warning signs are there to protect you.
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Take extra care around steam vents and hot ground areas.
Supervise Children
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Please hold young children’s hands.
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Children must stay with adults at all times.
Be Prepared
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Wear sturdy shoes — the tracks can be uneven or slippery.
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Bring water, sun protection, and dress for changing weather.
In Case of Emergency - Dial 111
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Stay calm and return to the entrance if safe.
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First Aid assistance is available — ask any staff member for help.
If you see any hazards or someone needing help, please tell a staff member immediately.
Kiosk Phone - 027 656 4684
Thank you for helping us protect this unique geothermal wonder!
Enjoy your visit and stay safe.
We arrived early in the morning to avoid crowds. By the time we left two hours later, it was busy. We commenced our walk and enjoyed seeing the thermal activity: steam, boiling water and mud. The paths were well signed and maintained. This walk can be done at your own pace and there are seats along the way should you need a rest. The views up the hill are also worth the walk to get there. The staff at the shop were also very welcoming and helpful, answering our questions before we went in.
PATRICIA , AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 18
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHERE TO FIND US
171 Karapiti Road,
Wairakei Park,
Taupo 3377
+64 276 564 684
TRAVEL ROUTES
From the North
When approaching from the north, at the ETA roundabout at State Highway 1 & 5, take the Wairakei Park exit and travel along Wairakei Drive. On your right, soon after the Wairakei International Golf Course you will see the sign to Craters of the Moon.
Take care when turning right across the highway into Karapiti Road. Travel 1.7 km to the road end to arrive at the carpark of Craters of the Moon geothermal walk.
From the South (Taupo town centre)
When approaching from the south, travel 5.5 km north from the Taupo iSite along Wairakei Drive.
Turn left onto Karapiti Road. Travel 1.7 km to the road end to arrive at the carpark of Craters of the Moon geothermal walk.
Craters of the Moon is open 364 days per year (closed Christmas Day)
OPENING HOURS
9:30am to 5pm
With last entry being 4pm.
CONTACT US
KIOSK CONTACT
+64 276 564 684
POSTAL ADDRESS
Craters of the Moon Trust,
PO Box 18,
Taupo 3351