Take a two‑hour floatplane from Rotorua’s lakefront to a secluded bay on Lake Rotoiti for a 90‑minute thermal soak accessible only by water. Expect volcanic views, native birdlife and practical tips for making the most of the flight-and-soak experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You lift off from Rotorua’s lakefront and the city falls away beneath the floatplane’s pontoons: crater rims, steaming vents and a patchwork of glassy lakes slide past like pages of a geological atlas. The plane banks gently toward Lake Rotoiti; water gathers beneath you and the pilot eases into a water landing. You taxi to a private pier and step into a small, sheltered bay where a cluster of natural thermal pools waits — each pool inviting you to move between hotter and cooler pockets of water at your own pace.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking and no hiking required, but ability to step on/off a floatplane and onto a dock is needed.
Wildlife
History
The Rotorua lakes lie within a volcanic caldera; many places around Rotoiti are significant to local Māori tikanga and oral histories, including Mokoia Island’s role in regional legend.
Conservation
These lakes are monitored for water quality and invasive species; visitors should avoid using soaps, carry out all rubbish and follow the operator’s guidance to help protect the shoreline and native habitat.
Reserve your spot on the Crater Lakes Scenic Flight with Natural Hot Pool Bathing by Floatplane today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear swimwear under layers
Put your swimsuit on beneath a light outer layer to change discreetly on the dock and stay warm after sea level wind exposure.
Pack a small dry bag
Keep phone, wallet and a spare shirt in a waterproof pouch — docks and pontoons get wet during boarding and disembarkation.
Sun and wind protection
Bring SPF, sunglasses and a windproof layer; reflections off the lake intensify sun and gusts at altitude and on the water.
Confirm weight and health restrictions
Operator asks for passenger weights and does not recommend the tour for pregnant travelers — disclose medical conditions when booking.
Swimsuit
Required for soaking in the thermal pools and cooling off in the lake.
summer
Towel & quick-dry change of clothes
A towel and warm dry clothes for after your soak keep you comfortable for the return flight.
Waterproof dry bag
Protects electronics and paperwork while boarding, landing and on the lakeside pier.
Windproof jacket
Useful for cooler mornings and the short walk between plane and pier where lake breezes are stronger.
spring