White Island Travel Guide

Discover the richness of White Island with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about its natural attractions, cultural sites, best things to do, transportation, and more.


Introduction to White Island

White Island is a small, yet striking island located in Bay of Plenty, in the North Island of New Zealand. Its stunning natural beauty is complemented by its rich Maori culture, which makes it a perfect destination for travelers looking for a unique cultural and adventure experience. The island offers visitors an opportunity to explore geysers, hot springs, craters, and other natural wonders. Its history is also fascinating, having been established as a sulfur mining site in the 1800s. This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know to have a memorable trip to White Island.

List of Places to Visit in White Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Whakarewarewa Village - This village is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to learn about Maori culture. The village’s geothermal wonderland will impress you with its hot pools, mud pools, and geysers.

  • Tamaki Maori Village - A fascinating cultural destination that offers visitors a chance to see ancient Maori practices in action. Visitors will learn the art of carving, weaving, and dancing, as well as, sample Maori cuisine.

  • Ohinemutu - A Maori settlement that is located just a few minutes from Rotorua. Ohinemutu features stunning architecture, beautifully crafted carvings, and intricate weaving.

Natural Attractions of White Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • White Island Volcano - Visit the only active marine volcano in New Zealand by taking a guided tour. Walk around the crater and smell the sulfur, which gives the island its name.

  • Waimangu Volcanic Valley - Explore the world’s youngest geothermal system developed from the 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera in Rotorua. Walk around its stunning geysers, boiling mud pools, and water lakes.

  • Kuirau Park - The perfect destination for travelers looking to explore geothermal activity, including hot springs and mud pools. It is located in Rotorua’s city center and offers free access.

Hiking/Biking Routes of White Island

  • White Island Walking Tracks - Trek around the island by taking the guided crater rim walk. Marvel at the island’s stunning volcanic landscapes and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

  • Kuirau Park Walkway - A scenic and family-friendly short walk. Take a stroll around the park’s hot springs, mud pools, and boiling water features.

Best Things to Do in White Island: Activities and Tours

  • Take a Helicopter Tour - Enjoy a thrilling helicopter ride and witness the island’s scenic landscapes from a bird’s-eye view.

  • Kayaking and Paddle Boarding - Take a guided tour and explore the island’s stunning coastal scenery on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Watch out for friendly dolphins on the way.

  • Snorkeling and Diving - Explore the island’s stunning underwater world by taking a diving or snorkeling tour. Discover the rich marine life and crystal-clear water of the Bay of Plenty.

Week-Long Itinerary for White Island

Day Destination
1 Explore Rotorua’s geothermal attractions
2 Visit the Waimangu Volcanic Valley
3 Take a guided tour of White Island
4 Enjoy outdoor activities, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, on Lake Taupo
5 Visit Te Puia, a stunning geothermal attraction in Rotorua
6 Take a helicopter tour of the island
7 Explore the local markets and try some authentic Maori cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of White Island

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hangi - This is a traditional Maori cuisine that involves cooking food in an underground oven. It is served with kumara and potato.

  • Pavlova - A popular dessert that is made of meringue, whipped cream, and fresh fruit. It originated from New Zealand.

Local Beverages

  • Wine - New Zealand is renowned for its high-quality wine. Try some of the local Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noirs.

  • Manuka Honey - This honey originates from the Manuka plant, which is native to New Zealand. It is one of the most expensive types of honey globally and is known for its antibacterial properties.

Where to Stay in White Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • White Island Rendezvous - A stunning lakeside resort, perfect for travelers looking to relax in a serene environment.

  • Crash Palace Backpackers - A friendly and cozy hostel located in Rotorua. It is perfect for budget backpackers or groups.

  • Novotel Rotorua Lakeside - A luxury hotel located in the heart of Rotorua, offering beautiful views of Lake Rotorua.

What to Buy in White Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pounamu - This is a type of greenstone that is native to New Zealand. It is a symbol of status, wealth, and power among the Maori people.

  • Maori Carvings - These intricate carvings are made of wood and stone and are commonly used as souvenirs to bring home.

  • Manuka Honey - This honey is known for its medicinal properties and is a perfect gift for health-conscious friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of White Island

The Maori people of New Zealand have a rich cultural heritage that is expressed through their art, music, dance, and carving. Visitors should respect their culture and customs, including:

  • Remove shoes before entering someone’s house or marae (Maori meeting house)
  • Do not touch or take anything without asking permission
  • Show respect during cultural performances and events by not interrupting or chatting loudly
  • Learn some basic Maori phrases, such as “Kia ora” (hello) or “Haere rā” (goodbye) to show your appreciation.

Best Time to Visit White Island

The best time to visit White Island is during the summer months of December to February, when temperatures are warm and ideal for outdoor activities. However, this is peak season, and prices can be high. Alternatively, you can visit during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), when prices are lower, and crowds are fewer.

Do’s and Don’ts of White Island

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Follow health and safety protocols
  • Be respectful towards nature

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Take photos of people and places without permission
  • Disrespect the local culture or people

Safety and Health

Safety in White Island

Visitors should be aware of potential volcanic activity on the island, which may pose a safety risk. Always follow the guidance of your tour guide and stay out of restricted areas.

Health in White Island

White Island is generally safe for visitors. However, with an abundance of outdoor activities, visitors should stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and make sure they have adequate health insurance.

Getting to White Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near White Island

The nearest airports to White Island are Rotorua Airport and Tauranga Airport. From either airport, you can take a shuttle bus or hire a car to get to White Island.

Bus Stations Near White Island

There are several bus stations located in Rotorua and Tauranga that offer transport to White Island.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a ferry from Whakatane to White Island.

How to Get Around in White Island

The best way to explore White Island is by taking a guided tour. Tour guides will take visitors to all the best spots on the island.

Where to Go Next from White Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring White Island, you can head to other nearby destinations, including:

  • Auckland - New Zealand’s largest city, with a rich cultural scene and stunning natural attractions

  • Hobbiton - Visit the movie set of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies

  • Coromandel Peninsula - A popular destination for beach lovers, with stunning scenery and remote, hidden coves.

Conclusion

White Island is a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and culture. From its stunning geothermal attractions to its rich Maori heritage, there is so much to explore and discover. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your next adventure to White Island and enjoy everything it has to offer.

White Island White Island Visitors approaching the wharf from a White Island Tours boat Visitors approaching the wharf from a White Island Tours boat Remains of sulphur mine Remains of sulphur mine