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Geothermal area · Taupō, Waikato
Craters of the Moon
Field of fumaroles and steam craters north of Taupō, traversed by boardwalks on a circuit of about 45 minutes through scrub and hot ground.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Craters of the Moon
Craters of the Moon (Karapiti in Māori) is about 5 km north of Taupō, near the Huka Falls. It is a geothermal field of craters, fumaroles and hot ground, with steam rising from dozens of openings among low shrub vegetation.
Activity increased in the second half of the 20th century when the nearby Wairakei geothermal power station began extracting hot water from underground. With reduced pressure, steam found new outlets and formed hydrothermal eruption craters, some large and deep, which continue to change.
A wooden boardwalk circuit crosses the field and passes viewpoints over the main craters. An extended route climbs to a higher viewpoint with views over the whole field and surrounding mountains.
The site is managed by a community trust, which charges an entry fee for maintenance; check the current rates.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes for the main circuit; 1 hour with the extension to the viewpoint.
Best time
Early morning or on cold days, when the steam is denser. The circuit has little shade in summer.
How to get there
By car, about 10 minutes from Taupō town center via SH1 and Karapiti Road, with parking. It is close to the Huka Falls.
Tip
Do not leave the boardwalks: the ground off them is thin and very hot. Combine it with the Huka Falls and the Aratiatia rapids in the same morning.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Craters of the Moon
How long does a visit to Craters of the Moon take?
About 45 minutes for the main boardwalk circuit, or an hour including the high lookout.
Is Craters of the Moon paid entry?
Yes, the trust that manages the site charges an entry fee; check the current rates.
Does Craters of the Moon have geysers?
No. It is a field of fumaroles and steam craters, without geysers.