One of the most famous geysers in Te Whakarewarewa Valley at Rotorua has begun erupting in earnest, after 18 months of bubbling.

Te Puia chief executive Tim Cossar said Papakura Geyser has bubbled away for the past 18 months, after lying dormant since 1979, but entered a new phase of activity late this week, with constant eruptions shooting water up to four metres in the air.

GNS Science volcano information specialist Brad Scott said he is ecstatic about Papakura's new life, which was attributed to the bore closure programme in the late 1980s.

Papakura Geyser and its activity can be clearly and safely seen from existing visitor pathways and viewing areas.