Craters of the Moon

The name Craters of the Moon springs from the eerie atmosphere and unusual craters dominating the landscape (incidentally, they look nothing like moon craters). Take the 30 minute walk over the odd terrain, and don't forget the camera.

The thermal area was created in the 1950s, when the hydrothermal power station at Wairakei lowered the underground water levels. Steaming craters, mud pools and steam vents appeared in the ground, and silica terraces were formed. The terraces are hidden in the valley Orakei Korako, along with leaping geysers.

A wonderful mix of plant life can be seen here, thriving in the steamy conditions and rich volcanic soil. There is no entry fee, and the area has lots of well-maintained trails with good vantage points.