Mount Tarawera/Orakei Korako Thermal Explorer Dual Landing

The Mount Tarawera/Orakei Korako Thermal Explorer Dual Landing offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in New Zealand’s stunning natural landscapes. Travelers embark on a scenic helicopter ride, soaring over the breathtaking Tarawera Falls and geothermal reserves. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – guests then land at the Orakei Korako thermal park, where they can explore vibrant hot springs and geysers on a flexible walking tour. This unique combination allows visitors to appreciate the region’s beauty from above and up close, creating an unforgettable experience. What awaits those who venture to this captivating destination?

Key Points

• Scenic helicopter flight over the Central North Island, providing panoramic views of Tarawera Falls, geothermal reserves, and crater lakes.
• Landing at Orakei Korako thermal area for a guided exploration of hot springs, erupting geysers, and colorful silica terraces.
• Opportunity to witness the natural wonders of the region from both an aerial and ground perspective.
• Tour suitable for a maximum of 6 travelers, with weight limit and accessibility considerations.
• Positive reviews highlighting the professionalism of the pilots and the stunning landscapes showcased during the experience.

Overview and Experience Highlights

The Tarawera/Orakei Korako Thermal Explorer offers a scenic helicopter flight over the captivating landscapes of Central North Island, New Zealand.

You’ll soar above towering Tarawera Falls, gaze down at geothermal reserves, and admire the stunning crater lakes below.

The highlight is a landing at Orakei Korako, where you’ll explore the mesmerizing geothermal wonders up close. Walk amidst hot springs, watch erupting geysers, and bask in the lush, otherworldly atmosphere.

From the air, you’ll also enjoy impressive views of the region’s verdant farmland and the vibrant city of Rotorua.

This unforgettable experience showcases the natural beauty and geological marvels that make this part of New Zealand so captivating.

Tour Details

This scenic helicopter tour typically departs from Rotorua, New Zealand, a popular tourist destination known for its geothermal wonders.

The maximum group size is 6 travelers, and each passenger has a total weight limit of 243 lbs.

Visitors will enjoy a flexible walking tour at the Orakei Korako thermal park, exploring its hot springs and geysers for up to 1 hour on the ground.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps, though infant seats are available.

With stunning aerial views of lush farmland and Rotorua, this tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of New Zealand’s Central North Island.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Meeting point for this scenic helicopter tour is located at Lakefront Drive, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand. Tour participants return to the same meeting point at the end of the experience. This convenient location provides easy access for travelers exploring the natural wonders of Rotorua.

Meeting Point	End Point
Lakefront Drive, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand	Returns to the meeting point

The tour’s meeting and pickup arrangement ensures a seamless start and finish to this unforgettable helicopter adventure over the stunning landscapes of Central North Island, New Zealand.

Health and Safety Requirements

Typically, travelers receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability. No heart problems or serious medical conditions are required for participation, as most travelers can comfortably join the tour, which is located near public transportation.

The tour’s health and safety requirements include:

1. All passengers must adhere to the pilot’s instructions and safety protocols during the flight and ground exploration.

2. Infants are welcome but must sit on a parent’s lap, with infant seats available upon request.

3. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility challenges may need assistance.

Reviews and Ratings

Overwhelmingly positive reviews and a stellar 5.0 overall rating reflect the tour’s exceptional quality, with travelers praising the informative and comfortable experience. The six total reviews highlight the professionalism of the pilots and the stunning aerial views that take guests’ breath away. The tour earns rave reviews across the board.

Review Statistics	Value
Total Reviews	6
Overall Rating	5.0 stars
Positive Feedback	Informative, comfortable tour
Key Highlights	Professional pilots, stunning views

The tour’s flexibility and accessibility also contribute to its popularity, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to accommodate most travelers.

Scenic Helicopter Flight

Aboard the helicopter, guests embark on a breathtaking aerial tour over the Central North Island’s striking landscapes, including the majestic Tarawera Falls and the otherworldly geothermal reserves surrounding the dormant Mount Tarawera.

From this bird’s-eye view, travelers are treated to:

1. Panoramic vistas of the vibrant crater lakes, bubbling hot springs, and towering geysers that define the Orakei Korako thermal area.

2. Sweeping aerial perspectives of the lush farmland and rolling hills that characterize the Rotorua region.

3. Awe-inspiring glimpses of the Tarawera Falls, a stunning cascade plunging nearly 200 meters over the rugged cliffs.

This exhilarating helicopter ride offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the dramatic natural wonders of New Zealand’s Central North Island from above.

Thermal Park Exploration

Upon landing in the Orakei Korako thermal area, guests embark on a flexible walking tour to explore the geothermal wonders of the region.

They encounter a captivating landscape dotted with hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and towering geysers that showcase the impressive volcanic activity beneath the surface.

Travelers can wander along well-maintained paths, taking in the sights and sounds of this otherworldly environment.

From the colorful silica terraces to the steaming fumaroles, every step reveals the dynamic geothermal processes that have shaped this unique destination.

Knowledgeable guides are on hand to provide insights and answer questions, ensuring visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the natural marvels of Orakei Korako.

Impressive Aerial Views

The scenic helicopter flight offers travelers an unparalleled aerial perspective, showcasing the captivating landscapes of the Central North Island. From above, they can marvel at the sweeping vistas of lush farmland, the striking Rotorua caldera, and the stunning Tarawera Falls cascading down the mountainside.

The highlights of the aerial journey include:

1. Panoramic views of the geothermal reserves, where bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles dot the terrain.

2. Breathtaking aerial perspectives of the crater lakes, their vivid turquoise hues contrasting with the surrounding forest-covered slopes.

3. Impressive bird’s-eye vistas of the Orakei Korako thermal area, where visitors can witness the incredible natural wonders from above before landing to explore them on foot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on this tour. The tour operator’s policy states that only service animals are allowed due to the sensitive nature of the thermal park environment and for the safety and comfort of all participants.

Is There an Age Limit for the Helicopter Flight?

The tour doesn’t have a specific age limit, but infants must sit on laps during the helicopter flight. Infant seats are available if needed. Overall, most travelers can participate in the experience, subject to weight restrictions.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

The tour does not provide water or snacks, so guests should bring their own. Hydration and light refreshments are recommended, especially for the walking portion of the experience in the thermal park.

Can I Take Photos During the Landing and Exploration?

Passengers are generally allowed to take photos during the landing and exploration. However, it’s important to follow any instructions from the tour guides to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Photography is often encouraged to capture the stunning natural scenery.

Is the Helicopter Flight Suitable for Those With a Fear of Heights?

The helicopter flight may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights, as it involves aerial views and landing in remote, elevated areas. However, the tour provides a safe and controlled experience to help manage any height-related concerns.

Recap

The Mount Tarawera/Orakei Korako Thermal Explorer Dual Landing offers an unforgettable experience, combining a scenic helicopter flight with an immersive exploration of the region’s vibrant thermal features.

Passengers can admire the stunning landscapes from above before delving into the natural beauty at Orakei Korako, making this adventure a unique and captivating way to appreciate New Zealand’s Central North Island.