Much of the central part of the region lies within the Taupo Volcanic Zone , which extends from the centre of the North Island northwards to Whakaari/White Island . Volcanic mountains and lakes , geothermal areas and geological fault lines all dot the landscape . The geothermal region around Rotorua is a major tourist site , while many hot springs in the region are used as swimming areas . The geothermal field near Kawerau is the site of a geothermal power plant that will reportedly meet up to one third of residential and industrial electricity demand in the Eastern Bay of Plenty . Whakaari/White Island , the site of a former sulfur-mining operation , is an active volcanic island popular with tourists . The eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886 and the 1987 Edgecumbe earthquake were two disasters related to geological activity in the volcanic plateau
1987 Edgecumbe earthquake
1987 Edgecumbe earthquake
Bay of Plenty