Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley

Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley is a geothermal valley in the Bay of Plenty Region containing Frying Pan Lake, the world's largest hot spring, alongside numerous steaming craters and mineral formations. The landscape spans multiple levels with varying colors and temperatures, shaped by ongoing volcanic activity and mineral deposits.

The eruption of Mount Tarawera on June 10, 1886, created this geothermal system and completely destroyed the vegetation that covered the landscape before. The massive volcanic activity and mudflow established the conditions for the geothermal features visible today, which have been active ever since.

The name Waimangu comes from the Māori language, meaning black water, which refers to the dark mud and rocks ejected during the original eruption. Visitors can still see this connection in the dark coloring of the water and mineral deposits throughout the valley.

The valley offers guided walks, boat tours on Lake Rotomahana, and self-guided hiking trails through different zones with varying difficulty levels. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring sun protection, as the ground is uneven and shade is limited throughout the area.

This system is the only geothermal area in recorded history formed after a volcanic eruption within the past millennia. This recent geological creation means the features here are still changing and evolving at a rapid pace.