Traverse the volcanic terrain of Mt Tarawera on a full-day hike with Kaitiaki Adventures. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views and rich Māori cultural history just outside Rotorua.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6.5–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for those with good general fitness capable of a full day of mixed-terrain hiking with some steep ascents.
Wildlife
History
The 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera destroyed the famous Pink and White Terraces, once called the 'Eighth Wonder of the World,' reshaping the whole landscape.
Conservation
Kaitiaki Adventures emphasizes low-impact travel and respect for Māori sacred sites, supporting sustainable tourism to protect sensitive volcanic terrain.
Kaitiaki Adventures
Traverse the volcanic terrain of Mt Tarawera on a full-day hike with Kaitiaki Adventures. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views and rich Māori cultural history just outside Rotorua.
Kaitiaki Adventures operates from Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty, offering guided outdoor and cultural experiences focused on the region’s volcanic landscapes and rivers. The company runs a range of Mt Tarawera hikes — half‑day and full‑day crater experiences — with options to descend into the crater and panoramic 360° viewpoints. On water, Kaitiaki Adventures leads Kaituna River whitewater rafting and sledging trips featuring 14 rapids and the 7‑metre Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall. Combination itineraries pair Mount Tarawera hikes with Kaituna raft or sledge sessions, or with geothermal and cultural visits to Te Puia including Māori performance and a traditional hāngi feast. An adults‑only Polynesian Spa option is available as a post‑hike relaxation add‑on.
Guided Omanawa Falls and Great Sights tours include walks to waterfalls, Māori carvings, historical sites and the local hydroelectric power station, sharing the history of Ngāti Hangarau. All experiences emphasize safety, local knowledge and cultural context delivered by guides familiar with Rotorua’s natural and cultural landscape. Kaitiaki Adventures serves families, thrill‑seekers and nature lovers seeking authentic New Zealand outdoor activities. Booking options cover single experiences and curated combos to suit different energy levels and time frames. Located in Rotorua, the operator leverages proximity to Lake Rotorua, Mt Tarawera and the Kaituna River to minimize transfers and maximize time outdoors. This mix of volcanic exploration, whitewater action and cultural immersion defines Kaitiaki Adventures’ offering in the Bay of Plenty.
Reservations are available year-round subject to seasonal conditions, group sizes, and guide availability for all experience levels.
Base Location
Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Central hub for all tours
Volcanic Tours
Mt Tarawera experiences
Half and full day guided hikes
Whitewater
Kaituna rafting & sledging
14 rapids, includes Tutea Falls
Cultural Experiences
Māori performance & hāngi
Te Puia and iwi storytelling
Secure a spot on Mt Tarawera hikes, Kaituna River rafting or cultural combos — availability varies seasonally.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The volcanic ground is uneven and can be slippery; sturdy walking shoes with good grip are essential.
Prepare for Variable Weather
Pack layers and rain protection as conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations.
Bring Plenty of Water
Hydration is key during this 7-hour trek—carry enough water for the full day.
Use Courtesy Transport
Booking courtesy transport from Rotorua saves hassle and adds to the adventure experience.
Sturdy Walking Shoes
Provides grip and support on slippery volcanic rock and uneven tracks.
Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment for variable weather at different altitudes.
all
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses protect from strong UV rays during exposed sections.
summer
Water and Snacks
Necessary to stay hydrated and energized over the full-day trek.