Orakei Korako

BY JULIAN THOMSON (OUT THERE LEARNING)
Accessibility: EASY
Terrace and hot spring features, Agnes Reyes / GNS Science
A wide range of geothermal features over a large area.
Sinter aprons in Artists Palette feature, L.Homer / GNS Science
Over 250 of the original geysers, terraces and hot springs at Orakei Korako were drowned when the hydro-electric dam was built, raising the river level by 18m to create Lake Ohakuri. However, inspite of the loss of two thirds of the original geothermal area, this is still the largest geyser field in New Zealand. A large earthquake in 131AD created some vertical fault scarps which now divide three main stepped terraces, covered with sinter and the colourful algae that thrive in hot temperatures.
Ruatapu Cave is a unique feature, extending down about 40m to a hot pool. This is one of only two caves known globally in a geothermal field.
Hochstetter Cauldron, M.Low / GNS Science
There are a huge number of mud pools and hot springs to see, along with steaming ground, geysers and the extensive Emerald, Rainbow and Cascade silica terraces. The walkway allows you to explore the features close up, and links up a number of lookouts with overviews of the lake and terraces.
Directions/Advisory

From Rotorua, travel down State Highway 5. The turnoff to Orakei Korako is 3km south of Golden Springs. Turn right on to the Tutukau Rd, travel 16kms then turn right onto Orakei Korako Rd, travel 5kms to the end of the road. Approximate driving time from Rotorua is 45 minutes.

If driving from Taupo, head north on State Highway 1 in the direction of Hamilton. The turnoff to Orakei Korako is 14kms from the junction of State Highways 1 and 5 at Wairakei. Turn right on to Tutukau Rd, travel 9kms then turn left onto Orakei Korako Rd, travel 5kms to the end of the road. Approximate driving time from Taupo is 25 minutes.

Keep to the track and follow all advisory information

Google Directions

Click here for Google driving directions

Accessibility: EASY

A one to two hour leisurely walk mostly on a boardwalk with some steps, so not suitable for wheelchairs, although the paths to the visitor centre are wheelchair friendly.

Features
Active Fault Landform Geothermal Geohazard
Geological Age
Recent
Zealandia Evolution Sequence
Pākihi Supergoup: 5 million years ago – present
Links
Check the website for opening hours and entry prices, as well as lots of details about the different features; https://www.orakeikorako.co.nz/visit