"Whakaari (White Island)" White Island by vtveen

White Island Travel Guide: 14 reviews and 114 photos

Metra Crater in the Main Crater - White Island

Great experience

White Island is the summit of a submarine volcano - part of the so called Taupo volcanic zone, which reaches from Mt. Ruapehu till some islands in the Pacific Ocean - believed to be 150.000 - 200.000 years old. It is New Zealand’s most active volcano and is located 50 km's off the coast of the Bay of Plenty. The never stopping plume of steam and gas can be seen from the mainland.
The lunar-like landscape and constant volcanic activity make it one of the most awesome attractions in the country. For us without any doubt the number ONE spot in New Zealand.

Remnants of an old sulphur factory can still be seen on White Island. They are located at Crater Bay, where visitors have to disembark to enter the island. Remains of old machinery are partly covered by ash from several eruptions.

The boat ride to White Island from Whakatane takes about 80 till 90 minutes (weather depending) and the island can only be visited by guided tours.

More info and pictures on 'the things to do' tip and my White Island Travelogues.
Images of White Island seen from a couple of camera's situated on White Island and in Whakatane can be seen on: Volcano Camera White Island.

Be aware I made the pics during OUR visit. On an active volcano the scenery can change daily. !!!

Pros and Cons

Pros:overwhelming scenery
In a nutshell:our number ONE spot in New Zealand

Last visit to White Island: Mar 2002
Intro Updated Apr 2, 2008
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Reviews (2)

You will never forget White Island - White Island

You will never forget White Island Shopping (1)

The shop belongs to White Island Tours and is almost the only possibility for buying gifts of White Island. It is so... more travel advice

White Island: crater lake and crater - White Island

JUST DO IT !!! Things to Do (1)

There is exactly one 'things to do' tip: just visit White Island. Although some companies offer helicopter-flights over... more travel advice

Travelogues (2)

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Comments (16)

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junecorlett Feb 21, 2009 at 2:07 AM

I was immediatley attracted to White Island, by the pic on your homepage.
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kiwi Jun 13, 2008 at 6:05 PM

White Island is closed for a while now, after a very close earthquake.
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eMeReS Aug 19, 2007 at 4:14 AM

I had planned to take this trip in January, but was very unlucky: it was cancelled due to bad weather and on my back-up days the conditions hadn't improved. Seeing your awesome pictures make me all the more resolved to go back and try again!
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angiebabe Jul 4, 2007 at 2:00 AM

I am definitely visiting here when i get back home! Thanks for all your beautiful advertising of the place!The tours sound great. Back in my day it was either off limits or never promoted as having any more than sulphur and smoke!and unsafe!
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Iteris Jun 19, 2007 at 4:46 PM

Amazing photo. Looks like some alien world - although not that i'd know!
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kschatterbox Mar 29, 2007 at 6:45 AM

Just wondering what the smell is White Island? Do you like the soap?
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dannebro Feb 20, 2007 at 10:38 AM

this is an amazing place !
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HarShe Jan 29, 2007 at 12:19 PM

It is truly amazing and a well kept Kiwi secret. Even lot of the Kiwis dont know about it. We were there last Jan - enjoyed it immensely and have been "advertising" it to friends!!
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KiKitC Jan 25, 2007 at 3:54 AM

Wow! That is incredible! It looks so unearthly! Bet the snorkeling in nearby waters would be impressive...
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RAZOR-REN Feb 26, 2006 at 10:26 AM

VERY IMPRESSIVE PICS THERE. I DIDN'T KNOW WHITE ISLAND USED TO HAVE A FACTORY