Craters of the Moon Taupō Guide
- Sarah-Jane Lee
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
A Landscape That Looks Like Another Planet
At first glance, Craters of the Moon doesn't look like New Zealand at all. Steam rises from barren ground, silica stains the earth white and grey, and strange vents hiss from beneath the surface. This accessible geothermal attraction near Taupō allows visitors to experience the power of volcanic activity without having to tackle difficult walking tracks.
Why Visit Craters of the Moon?
At first glance, you may wonder if you've taken a wrong turn somewhere.
The green forests, sparkling rivers and lake views that define much of the Taupō region suddenly disappear.
Instead, steam pours from the ground.
The earth appears bleached and weathered.
Vegetation grows cautiously around an environment that still feels actively under construction.
Craters of the Moon offers one of the easiest ways to experience New Zealand's geothermal forces at work.
Children often find it fascinating because it feels like stepping onto another planet.
Adults usually discover something equally interesting, a reminder that the Central North Island remains a landscape shaped by powerful volcanic forces beneath the surface.
Craters of the Moon is part of the Taupo and Turangi Slow Travel Guide series
What Makes Craters of the Moon Special?
Unlike many geothermal attractions, Craters of the Moon is constantly evolving.
Steam vents appear unexpectedly.
Boardwalks occasionally shift as geothermal activity changes beneath the surface.
The landscape feels alive.
Walking through the reserve reveals steaming fumaroles, silica-stained ground and geothermal features scattered throughout a landscape that looks dramatically different from the surrounding native bush.
On clear days, distant views stretch towards Lake Taupō and the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park.
The Walking Track
The main loop track is approximately 2.7 kilometres.
Allow around 45 minutes to one hour for your visit.
The walk combines gravel paths and boardwalk sections and is one of the more accessible geothermal attractions in the region.
Families with young children will appreciate the easy gradients and well-maintained pathways.
Wheelchair users and visitors with strollers can also access much of the site.
Things To Know Before You Visit
Allow approximately 1 hour for your visit.
Admission fees apply.
Public toilets are available.
Gift shop on site.
Bring sunscreen and water, as shade is limited.
Stay on designated tracks as geothermal ground can be extremely hot.
Child-friendly and suitable for most fitness levels.
What To Visit Nearby
Craters of the Moon fits perfectly into a Taupō day of geothermal exploration.
Nearby attractions include:
Huka Falls
Otumuheke Stream Hot Pools
Aratiatia Rapids
Orakei Korako
Lake Taupō Waterfront
Together they create one of New Zealand's most fascinating volcanic landscapes.
BEST BITS
The best part isn't any single steam vent.
It's the contrast.
One moment you're driving through green Waikato countryside.
The next you're standing in a landscape that looks as though it belongs on another planet.
Few places demonstrate New Zealand's volcanic energy quite so clearly.
