Explore the Breathtaking Craters of the Moon
Discover the stunning geothermal landscapes of Craters of the Moon, a unique tourist attraction near Taupō, New Zealand, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Craters of the Moon is a unique geothermal wonderland in New Zealand, offering tourists a captivating landscape of craters, steam vents, and vibrant mineral deposits. This stunning attraction is perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, inviting exploration and discovery.
A brief summary to Craters of the Moon
- 171 Karapiti Rd, Taupō, Wairakei, 3377, NZ
- +64276564684
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes; the terrain can be uneven and slippery.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the park.
- Visit early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Check the weather forecast; conditions can change rapidly in geothermal areas.
- Take your time to explore all trails; each offers unique views and experiences.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From the Taupo Bus Interchange, take the 'Wairakei' bus. Make sure to check the schedule for bus times as they may vary. The bus will take you along State Highway 1 towards Wairakei. After approximately 15-20 minutes, request to be dropped off at the nearest stop to Craters of the Moon. From the bus stop, walk down Karapiti Road for about 1 kilometer (around 15 minutes) until you see the entrance to Craters of the Moon on your right.
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Bicycle Rental
If you prefer cycling, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Taupo. From the town center, head onto the Taupo Cycle Path that runs along the lakefront. Follow the path to the Wairakei area, which takes around 30-45 minutes. Once you reach Wairakei, turn onto Karapiti Road and continue cycling for about 3 kilometers until you reach the entrance to Craters of the Moon.
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Walking
For the adventurous, you can walk from the Taupo town center to Craters of the Moon. Start at the Taupo Lakefront and follow the pathway northwards. After approximately 4 kilometers, you will need to turn onto Wairakei Drive. Continue walking for another 2 kilometers along Wairakei Drive until you reach Karapiti Road. Turn left onto Karapiti Road, and walk for about 1 kilometer until you arrive at the entrance to Craters of the Moon.
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Taxi or Rideshare
You can also opt for a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber) from anywhere in Taupo. Simply provide the driver with the address: 171 Karapiti Road, Wairakei, Taupo 3377. The drive will take approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. The drop-off point will be right at the entrance of Craters of the Moon.
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