Left
  • Maori Warrior – Rotorua
  • Cruising on Lake Taupo
  • Pohutu Guyser – Rotorua
  • Surfer catching a wave, Raglan – Waikato
  • Art Deco Napier – Hawke’s Bay
Right

Thermal Explorer Highway

Crystal clear lakes and streams, natural mineral spas and active geothermal landscapes, snow-capped volcanoes, deep caves and forest. 

Traversing the thermal heart of the North Island is an enticing mix of captivating and wonderful landscapes.

Explore crystal clear lakes, the spiritual home of the Maori of Te Arawa, and experience nature’s awesome earth forces: bubbling mud, spouting geysers and natural geothermal mineral pools alongside the customs and stories of local peoples.

Travellers will have the opportunity to experience just about every adrenalin-fuelled adventure on their bucket list, from sky-diving and whitewater rafting to venturing into the ancient underground labyrinth of limestone caves and grottos. But if you are taking it easy, there are many magical hot springs to relax in and local cafes to enjoy.

Discover the Regions on the Thermal Explorer Highway:

Ruapehu

Taupō

Rotorua

Hamilton & Waikato