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Offered languages
- English
- English
The tour departs daily between 8:00-8:30 am. from your accommodation and drives you through forestry and farmland to New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool. Your guide shows you a series of colorful hot springs and volcanic features at Wai-O-Tapu. Then see the Lady Knox geyser eruption at 10:15 am.
Next a short drive to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley where your guide explains the Mt. Tarawera eruption which blew open this spectacular, bush-covered, geothermal park.
Spend the afternoon experiencing Rotorua’s Maori culture and geothermal activity and see how they are intricately entwined. First, a guided tour through Te Puia, Rotorua’s premier cultural attraction. This includes a visit to the wood carving school, art and craft gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving display, kiwi house and finally the Pohutu geyser.
Next, we visit the Lakefront area to see the Maori War Canoe and learn more about Maori history and customs.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
We offer complimentary pick-up from all Rotorua accommodations within city limits at the times listed below: 8:05 AM: Black Swan, On the Point, Koura Lodge 8:10 AM: Novotel, Regent, Ibis 8:15 AM: Princes Gate, Haka House, Pullman 8:20 AM: Millennium, Sudima 8:25 AM: Silver Fern, Arawa park hotel 8:30 AM: Rydges, Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park
Please wait outside the entrance to the Rydges hotel at 8:30 am. There is plenty of free parking in and around the back of the hotel. Thank you.
Itinerary
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1
Prepare for a captivating journey to Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of the world's most surreal and active geothermal parks, located just 20 minutes from Rotorua CBD. You will be guided through Wai O Tapu for approximately 45-60 minutes to explore its vibrant and unique landscape before we depart for the majestic Lady Knox Geyser.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
2
Our journey continues to the Lady Knox Geyser, a true marvel that erupts just once a day, precisely at 10:15 AM. Join us to uncover the fascinating story behind her remarkable punctuality!
15 minutes • Admission ticket included -
3
Next, we journey to the Jurassic Waimangu Valley, the world's youngest geothermal eco-system. Here, you'll witness firsthand the raw power and breathtaking beauty of Mother Nature, alongside the dramatic aftermath of the 1886 volcanic eruption of Mt. Tarawera. We'll spend approximately 90 minutes at Waimangu, which includes a relaxing 30-minute lunch break at the scenic Waimangu Café. Please note: Lunch is not included in price
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
4
Finally, join our local guide for a captivating journey to Te Puia, New Zealand's premier Māori arts and crafts institute. Here, you'll gain insight into the rich traditions of Māori carving, weaving, and casting. At the heart of Te Puia lies Pōhutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. Unlike Lady Knox, which erupts once daily, Pōhutu can erupt up to 20 times a day, roughly every 90 minutes, reaching impressive heights of up to 30 meters (100 feet). Te Puia is also a dedicated conservation site, home to three native kiwi birds bred and raised within its care. We hope that by the end of your day, you'll have witnessed not one, but two magnificent geysers, and satisfied your curiosity for New Zealand's iconic kiwi birds! We'll spend approximately 60-90 minutes at Te Puia.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
5
As our remarkable day concludes, prepare for a relaxing and picturesque scenic drive, showcasing the natural beauty and local charm of Rotorua. We'll journey along routes that unveil stunning vistas, allowing you to soak in the serene atmosphere and capture some final, memorable photographs. Our drive will wind through areas highlighting: Rotorua's shimmering lakes: Glimpse the tranquil waters of Lake Rotorua itself, perhaps catching reflections of the sky and surrounding hills. You might also get a peek at some of the smaller, hidden lakes that dot the region, each with its own unique character. Panoramic viewpoints: We'll navigate to elevated spots that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Rotorua caldera, the city, and the distant volcanic peaks. These vantage points provide a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the geological wonders that define this region.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Medium level of fitness required
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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