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Craters of the Moon Mudpots - Mudpot
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Craters of the Moon Mudpots

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description Craters of the Moon Mudpots Overview

Craters of the Moon is a geothermal walking area north of Taupo in New Zealand's Wairakei region. Its landscape contains steaming craters, fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and areas of thermally altered ground. The field became substantially more active after pressure changes associated with the development of the nearby Wairakei geothermal power system, and marked paths allow visitors to observe its geothermal features.

insights Ranking position

Craters of the Moon Mudpots ranks #53 of 168 in the Mudpot ranking, behind Sulphur Caldron, ahead of Joseph's Coat Hot Springs Mudpots.

help Craters of the Moon Mudpots FAQ

Where are the Craters of the Moon mudpots located in New Zealand?

These mudpots are located in the Craters of the Moon geothermal field near Taupo, New Zealand. The site features a network of easy walking tracks and boardwalks through an active thermal valley.

How did the Craters of the Moon geothermal area form?

The area emerged as a direct consequence of ground subsidence caused by nearby geothermal extraction. When the Wairakei geothermal power plant began operations in the 1950s, it lowered the underground water pressure, causing the landscape to sink and expose new thermal activity.

What causes the rotten egg smell at the Craters of the Moon?

The distinct odor common in the area is caused by hydrogen sulfide gas escaping from the earth. This gas is naturally released from the boiling mudpots and steaming fumaroles scattered across the reserve.

Are the mudpots at Craters of the Moon hot enough to burn visitors?

Yes, the mudpots and thermal pools at Craters of the Moon are incredibly hot, often reaching boiling temperatures. Visitors are strictly forbidden from leaving the boardwalks due to the danger of severe burns from the boiling mud and unstable ground.

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