In short
- Wear flat walking shoes or hiking boots with good tread.
- Bring a rain jacket, sun protection, and a water bottle.
- Pack a fully charged smartphone and headphones for the audio guide.
In this article
Preparation makes exploring the youngest geothermal valley in the world much easier. The walking tracks vary from short paved sections to steeper dirt trails. You need the right gear for the terrain and the local microclimate.
What is the best footwear for the Waimangu walk?
Wear comfortable flat walking shoes or hiking boots with good tread.
The self-guided trails range from 1.5 km to 4.5 km. You need secure footing, especially if you plan to hike the steeper Mt Haszard trail. Leave the sandals and high heels at home.
What clothes should I wear for the geothermal valley?
Wear light layers and bring a rain jacket or poncho.
The weather changes quickly in the valley. It can feel very humid near large thermal features like Frying Pan Lake, which sits at 50-60°C.
Rain actually enhances the geothermal steam. Wet days make the crater lakes highly atmospheric, so do not let a poor forecast stop you.
Do I need sun protection?
Yes, pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat year-round.
The walking trails have exposed sections with little shade. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated while you walk the trails. Hydration is crucial in the humid geothermal environment.
What technology should I pack?
Bring a fully charged smartphone and a pair of headphones.
You can download the free Waimangu App before you arrive. It includes an audio guide and an augmented reality feature. The app lets you see what the Pink and White Terraces looked like before the 1886 eruption.
Headphones allow you to listen to the commentary without disturbing other visitors on the trails.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
You can bring your own food to eat in designated picnic areas.
Do not eat your own food in the café. You cannot bring alcohol into the valley. Pack out all your rubbish using the bins provided to protect the naturally regenerating native bush.
How do I pay for things at Waimangu?
Bring a credit or debit card, as the site is 100% cashless.
You cannot use physical money for entry tickets, café purchases, or extra transport. Ensure your card is working before you arrive. Read more about ticket costs in our guide: Prices and Tickets.
Questions travellers ask
Is Waimangu Volcanic Valley open in the rain?
Yes. Waimangu is open daily year-round from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Rainy days make the geothermal steam particularly atmospheric. Just bring a rain jacket or poncho.
Can I use a wheelchair or pushchair on the trails?
Yes, bring a lightweight foldable wheelchair or sturdy pushchair if required for accessibility. Note that some spots, like Inferno Crater Lake, have stairs and are not accessible to wheelchairs.
What if I get too tired to walk back?
Waimangu operates an internal shuttle bus to help transport visitors between walking tracks and the visitor center. This makes it easier if you only want to walk one way.
