Traveler Reviews

• Veronan186 04-Aug-2023

  WOW! Beautiful short hike. The colours of the volcanic region are incredible. Every step was breathtaking! It was quite a windy day we went, but this didn't take away from how amazing it was. It felt so natural- no barriers or built up areas. Our guides were informative and helpful, keeping us safe and teaching us about the volcanic region.

• Veerayner 31-Jul-2023

  I can not express enough how grateful we are. So privileged to be taken up onto your beautiful maunga. I have never experienced anything like it. Our guides Chucky and Tawhiti were exceptional. We picked the most beautiful day to go up. The sun was shining, no wind, the views were breath taking and our group was awesome. Good vibes all around. I can not wait to make the trip again with my kids. Thank you so much for having us.

• Gabbiepelletier 18-Jul-2023

  We had an amazing time on My Tarawera. Our guides (Dan and a Chucky) were amazing. They were very knowledgeable, friendly, easy going, patient and accommodating to everyone in the group. The hike itself isn’t the most challenging which was nice. The guides drive you up a good portion of the mountain so what’s left isn’t too long, some sections are a little steeper, but the views are absolutely amazing. The pace was slow, but it was to be expected with a guided hike as everyone has different abilities. It gave us more time to learn about the history and take in the views. The total walking length is 3.8kms. My highlight was going down into the crater. Super fun and the guides instructed the group how to do so safely. The colours are absolutely amazing! The mountain is very peaceful and hold history which is shared at the view points. Dan shared his knowledge about the geology and it was quite fascinating. We 100% recommend this tour and would do it again!

• Chunzhan 16-Jul-2023

  Our group of five all greatly enjoyed the adventure. The guide was considerable and checked if anyone had motion sickness and helped with front seat and vehicle speed. The guide has good vocal as well 😂. My friends enjoyed summit most and I loved the experience of running down to the bottom of the volcano crater. We all felt the power of the natural when we first saw the huge crater. I lost my jacket in the van. They were so nice to posted it to me and let me do not worry about the postage when I would like to pay back the postage to them. Great Thanks!

• Fleta1 14-Jun-2023

  I am not a super fit hiker, but I am so glad that I took this tour! They were accommodating for all ages and experience levels, so props to them for sure - but it is definitely a hike up the side of a mountain, followed by a walk/slide down loose skree - so bring water and be prepared for an adventure! But the views are stunning, and the sense of awe and accomplishment at the end was amazing.

• Juliebenjamin1954 13-Jun-2023

  Our guides Dan and Chuckie were polite, knowledgeable and experienced. We particularly enjoyed the starkly beautiful panoramic views from Tarawera,and the several challenges to this trip. The first was ascending the 'Hillary Steps', which on first sight may cause some to want to turn back. The steps are part of a short rocky section in the tour, but may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights. Those who had such issues on our trip were expertly encouraged to proceed, and managed to climb the steps. The other challenge is descending the scree chute near the end, which looks steeper from a distance than it is in reality. It's actually fun to do. A few other comments and warnings. The bus that picks you from the meeting point in Rotorua has no advertising on it, so it is not clear that this is your vehicle (and there are plenty of other outdoors activity vehicles arriving). The 4WD journey through the beautiful mountain bush is bumpy but not dangerously so. On Tarawea you are exposed to the southerly wind blowing over Ruapehu, on some days. If it is strong on the day you go, wear a hat, gloves and a windproof outer layer, as it could be very cold. Also take a snack and a drink.

• Longwhite 28-May-2023

  Great trip and nice tour guides. Fantastic views. Fun running down to the creator! A beautiful, special place to visit.

• Cmsoz 26-May-2023

  Very scenic on our clear sky day. Guides Chucky and Dan are fun and knowledgeable, all the while looking out for the group safety and helping people when needed, to traverse the rocky landscape. You do need to be able to walk on uneven, rocky ground, and manage a couple of short, steep sections. Super fun running down the scree slope into the crater - there is no other way out.

• Zahara_a 24-May-2023

  Amazing guides. So knowledgeable, are passionate about the mountain and their culture. Beautiful scenery too

• Ernest_c 16-May-2023

  Enjoyed the 360 degree view from the summit, as well as the experience of hiking from a high point at the rim of the crater to a low point at the bottom of the crater. Special thanks must go to our two professional guides who had taken good care of us. There’s no doubt that our New Zealand visit becomes memorable especially because of this Mount Tarawera hike.