Ōrākei Kōrako Cave and Thermal Park is one of New Zealand’s most complete active geothermal valleys — a privately owned reserve set on the shore of Lake Ohakuri, about 26 kilometres north of Taupō on State Highway 5. The park is accessible only by short boat ferry, which crosses the lake in under five minutes and adds to the sense of entering somewhere genuinely remote. Once across, a self-guided walk covers extensive silica terraces, steaming vents, mud pools, geysers and the striking Ruatapu Cave — an emerald pool inside a geothermal cavern.
Practical Information
| Location | 494 Orakeikorako Road, off SH5 — 26km north of Taupō |
| Hours | Open daily from 8am; last boat to thermal area departs 4pm, last return 5pm. Closed Christmas Day. |
| Entry | Adults $57 · Children 16 & under $24 · Family (2 adults + 2 children) $144 · Under 6 free. Includes boat ferry. |
| Duration | 1–2 hours self-guided walk |
| Track | Mostly boardwalk; boats depart on request throughout the day (no fixed timetable) |
About the Park
Ōrākei Kōrako translates loosely as “the adorning place” — a reference to the silica terraces that once made this valley one of the most visually spectacular geothermal areas in the world. The park features at least eight distinct geothermal features across the self-guided loop, including active geysers, champagne pools, mud pools and vivid mineral deposits in whites, oranges and greens.
The highlight for many visitors is Ruatapu Cave, a cavern at the base of a ladder descent where an emerald-green pool sits in near-darkness, surrounded by geothermal heat and cave walls. The name means “sacred or forbidden cave” in te reo Māori.
The silica terraces — built up over thousands of years by mineral-rich geothermal water flowing across the hillside — were described by early European visitors as rivalling Rotorua’s famous pink and white terraces. The terraces at Ōrākei Kōrako are among the largest surviving examples in New Zealand.
Getting There
From Taupō, take SH5 north towards Rotorua. After about 26km, turn off onto Orakeikorako Road and follow it to the visitor centre on the lake shore. The boat crossing to the geothermal valley takes only a few minutes and runs on request throughout the day — no fixed departure schedule, so you won’t be waiting long on arrival.
The visitor centre has the Mudcake Café with espresso coffee, pies and fresh baking, and lake views. Free wi-fi is included with park entry. There is wheelchair access to the visitor centre.
What Visitors Say
“Absolutely stunning. Far less crowded than Rotorua’s geothermal areas and arguably more impressive — the silica terraces and the cave are extraordinary. The boat trip adds something to the experience too.” — Zigzag on Earth
Where to Learn More
Ōrākei Kōrako — Visit
Official site with current prices, opening hours, facilities and booking options.
Love Taupō — Ōrākei Kōrako
Official Taupō visitor guide profile with highlights and visitor tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Ōrākei Kōrako from Taupō?
About 26 kilometres north on SH5 — around 25 minutes by car.
Is the boat included in the entry price?
Yes — the short boat ferry across Lake Ohakuri to the geothermal valley is included in admission.
Can children visit?
Yes — children 16 and under are $24, and under 6s are free. The boardwalk track is suitable for families.
How long should I allow?
Allow 1–2 hours for the self-guided walk. Add time for the café and the boat crossing.
Do I need to book?
Booking online in advance is recommended, especially in peak season. Walk-ins are accepted subject to capacity.
Is Ōrākei Kōrako better than Wai-O-Tapu?
Different rather than better — Ōrākei Kōrako is quieter, more intimate and has the cave; Wai-O-Tapu (near Rotorua) is larger and features the Lady Knox Geyser. Many visitors rate Ōrākei Kōrako as the more surprising experience.
See also: Geothermal attractions in Taupō · Craters of the Moon · Wairakei Terraces