In short
- Walk Only entry costs NZD $65 for adults.
- The Full Experience (Walk + Cruise) costs NZD $135 for adults.
- The site does not accept cash; bring a credit or debit card.
In this article
Choosing your ticket dictates how much of the geothermal valley you see. Read on to compare options and plan your budget before you arrive.
How much is the Walk Only ticket?
An adult Walk Only ticket costs NZD $65.
This ticket gives you access to the self-guided walking trails. Paths range from 1.5 km to 4.5 km. You can view major geothermal features like Frying Pan Lake and Inferno Crater Lake from the trails.
How much does the Full Experience cost?
The Full Experience ticket costs NZD $135 for an adult.
This ticket combines the self-guided geothermal walk with a 45-minute guided boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana. Spots on the boat are limited. They often sell out in summer, so book this option in advance.
What is the difference between the two tickets?
The Walk Only covers land-based trails, while the Full Experience adds a boat cruise.
The walk lets you view craters and hot springs from the paths. The cruise takes you onto Lake Rotomahana to view steaming cliffs and the submerged site of the Pink and White Terraces.
| Feature | Walk Only | Full Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Self-guided trails | Yes | Yes |
| Internal shuttle bus | Yes | Yes |
| Lake Rotomahana cruise | No | Yes |
| Adult Price | NZD $65 | NZD $135 |
Do children need a paid ticket?
Children aged 6 to 16 pay a reduced rate, while children under 6 enter for free.
A child Walk Only ticket costs NZD $35. The child Full Experience ticket is NZD $67.50. Children must remain supervised at all times due to dangerous geothermal features.
Can I pay with cash at Waimangu Volcanic Valley?
No, the entire site is 100% cashless.
You must use a credit or debit card for all onsite purchases. This applies to entry tickets and the cafe. Plan accordingly before arriving.
Do I have to pay extra for the internal shuttle bus?
No, the internal shuttle bus is included in your entry ticket.
Waimangu operates this bus to transport visitors between the walking tracks and the visitor center. It helps shorten the walk if you do not want to hike the full 4.5 km.
Questions travellers ask
Does Waimangu Volcanic Valley cost money?
Yes. Adult tickets start at NZD $65 for the walk, and NZD $135 if you add the boat cruise.
Are there booking fees?
Tour and ticket prices are "from" prices and depend on the booking platform. Rates change, so check current availability online.
Can I use cash at the cafe?
No. The cafe and the rest of the site only accept debit or credit cards.
