Scenic flight over Whakaari (White Island)
Take to the skies over Aotearoa New Zealand’s most active cone volcanoDiscover the power and presence of Whakaari/White Island – Aotearoa’s most active marine volcano – from the air. This scenic flight combines dramatic volcanic landscapes with cultural narratives shared from a te ao Māori worldview, connecting you to the stories and whakapapa of this iconic place.
Overview of your scenic flight to Whakaari / White Island
Located 50km off the Bay of Plenty coastline, Whakaari/White Island rises from the ocean as one of the most dramatic and active volcanoes in Aotearoa New Zealand. To local Māori, Whakaari is known as Te Mareikura, a noble and powerful tipuna (ancestor) who commands deep respect.
As you fly above the island, your guide will share authentic kōrero (stories) about Whakaari’s origins, its place in local whakapapa, and the cultural values that underpin our connection with the landscape. You’ll learn basic te reo Māori phrases, understand why Whakaari holds such significance, and gain a new appreciation for this sacred maunga.
Whakatāne
Adult $649.00
Child $519.00
(minimum of 2 adults required)
Rotorua
Adult $1,250.00
Child $1,000.00
(minimum of 2 adults required)
DEPARTURES
Departures are at 9am, 12pm and 3pm daily from Rotorua, subject to weather.
From the air, you’ll see steaming vents, sulphur terraces, ash plains and vivid mineral colours shaped by continuous geological activity. The flight is both awe-inspiring and deeply grounding – a balance of nature, storytelling and cultural insight.
Why fly to Whakaari/White Island with White Island Flights?
As a small, locally-owned operator, we fly with manaakitanga (hospitality), whanaungatanga (relationships) and kaitiakitanga (guardianship) at the heart of everything we do. Your safety, comfort and experience are central to our role as kaitiaki (guardians) of this place. Read more about our values and philosophy.
Nau mai, haere mai. Welcome to Whakaari, the Mareikura.
Why Whakaari is one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary volcanoes
Whakaari (White Island) is Aotearoa’s most active marine volcano, with continuous geothermal activity. Known to Māori as Te Mareikura, a figure of deep cultural and ancestral significance. Its landscape is constantly changing, and the steam vents, sulphur plumes and crater features evolve over time and can only be fully understood from the air. Its location 50km offshore also gives it a dramatic, isolated presence unlike any other volcano in New Zealand.
What you’ll see during the flight
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The volcanic crater and inner caldera.
- Steam vents and fumaroles.
- Bright sulphur terraces and mineral deposits.
- Ash plains shaped by ongoing geothermal activity.
- The rugged offshore coastline of Whakatāne.
- Offshore islands including Moutohorā (Whale Island).
- Surrounding Bay of Plenty towns and landscapes.
- Occasional (not guaranteed!) sightings of dolphins and marine life.
Why Whakaari is significant in te ao Māori
To Te Waka a Toi iwi, Whakaari is:
- A tipuna (ancestor) with its own mauri (life force).
- A Mareikura: a noble, respected female figure.
- A key part of ancient stories about the volcanic landscape of the region.
- A reminder of the relationship between people, land, and the natural world.
Our flights share these perspectives with the utmost care, accuracy and respect.
How the experience works
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Depart Rotorua Airport and fly over the Bay of Plenty coastline.
- Cross the ocean towards Whakaari, visible from a distance long before you arrive.
- Circle the volcano in both directions for the best views of the crater and geothermal features.
- Hear live commentary on geology, culture and history of the Bay of Plenty.
- Return along the coast with views of offshore islands and – if you’re lucky – some marine life!
This scenic flight is ideal for:
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Travellers wanting to view an active volcano.
- Nature lovers, photographers and geology enthusiasts.
- Visitors wanting deeper cultural context and authentic storytelling.
- Families or groups wanting a unique aerial experience.
Take a look at our other scenic flights
Maunga Hikurangi
