Rotorua Eco Cultural full day tour (Wai o Tapu, Waimangu,Te puia)

4.9
(43 reviews)
Rotorua, New Zealand

8 to 9 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

Get picked up from your Rotorua accommodation between 8AM and 8:30 AM. Commentated scenic drive to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland for 1hr guided walk. See colourful hot springs, boiling mud, volcanic landscapes and experience the daily eruption of Lady Knox Geyser playing at 10:15 AM.

Visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley to learn about the 1886 Mt Tarawera eruption on a 1hr guided walk. Relax at the Waimangu Volcanic Valley Cafe for lunch at 12:00 PM.

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour through Rotorua's premier cultural attraction Te Puia. Learn about Maori culture and history by visiting the woodcarving school, arts and crafts gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving display, kiwi house, and experience the Pohutu Geyser.

Finish your day with a smooth drive around the local sights of Rotorua.

Kindly note that for your visit to Te Puia, guiding services will be provided by their on-site staff. This adheres to the venue's specific operational policies.

Tour operates from 8 am to 4 pm

What's Included

All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Bottled water
Lunch
WiFi on board

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

We offer complimentary pick-up from all Rotorua accommodations within city limits at the times listed below:

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

OR
Meeting point

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. Please note we do NOT pick up from any ports in New Zealand on our shared tours.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 to 9 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

    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
    Te Puia

    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
    Rotorua

    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
Supplied by Elite Adventures

Tags

Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Excellent Quality
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Curated Catalog
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.9 Based on 43 43 reviews
5 stars
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