• Mt Maunganui Main Beach - Pause to appreciate this stunning location, where it’s shared that James Cook discovered it in 1769.
• Kiwifruit Country - As you drive through 25,000 acres of Te Puke kiwi orchards, enjoy an engaging narrative on the fruit’s development in the country, a brief overview of the cultivation techniques, and its significance to the local economy. A stop at Kurt’s 12-acre orchard offers a closer look. It’s sure to impress.
• Mangorewa River - Travel to Rotorua via a scenic route showcasing excellent examples of the region’s native fauna and offering great views of the Pacific Ocean as you descend from the elevated central plateau.
• Whakarewarewa - The Living Maori Village - Entry is included to this historic, world-renowned bubbling geothermal village where local Maori still reside. Be captivated by a 40-minute cultural performance featuring the local Māori entertainment troupe, showcasing their natural talent for music and dance, including a memorable version of the Haka. The Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao village people have a proud history of sharing their stories, songs, and dances for over a century, originally guiding tourists at the Pink and White Terraces before they were buried in the Mt Tarawera eruption. With a special agreement with the iwi (tribe), you can glimpse the famous Pohutu and Prince of Wales Feathers geysers, which display hot gushing groundwater heated by geothermal activity. Another highlight is a 30-minute walk through their geothermally active natural wetland zone.
• Lake Rotorua - Choose from one of three fine cafes for lunch, one offering a splendid view of the lake and the large intricately carved meeting house (whare nui).
• Polynesian Spa - Optionally, enjoy a soak in soothing mineral waters or a mud massage unique to Rotorua. This is a wonderful setting, especially recommended as a winter attraction, as most of the 10 or so natural hot mineral pools are at or near body temperature. You can opt to substitute the Whakarewarewa concert and Geothermal walk for this at no extra cost.
• Government Gardens - Take time to enjoy the beautiful gardens and the iconic, architecturally significant Rotorua Bathhouse. A walk from one side of these gardens to the other, about 100 yards, is encouraged for a better experience, with pickup on the other side. Early summer is ideal for the full bloom of flowers.
• Lake Okareka Walkway - An elevated spot perfect for postcard-like photos with the idyllic Lake Okareka in the foreground, its stunning lakefront holiday homes, and the once active Mt Tarawera (now dormant) in the background.
• Tikitapu Nature Walk - Enter a prime example of New Zealand’s native forest, with past clients describing it as beautiful and awe-inspiring. The area is rich with tall podocarps and various fern species, including Jurassic Park tree ferns (Actor Sam Neil is from NZ), and notably free of poisonous snakes, spiders, or other dangerous creatures, allowing for a fearless exploration. A 300-meter hike into this enchanting natural space is available, and it’s sure to be a highlight.
• Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) - Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Rotokakahi (Green Lake) are two gems nestled in a beautiful native forest. Blue Lake is open to all and is a great spot for a weekend of swimming, boating, and barbecuing, while Green Lake is “tapu” (taboo, forbidden) due to historical conflicts between local tribes. Capture stunning panoramic photos from the lookout between these lakes and be amazed by their beauty.
• Buried Village of Te Wairoa - If time permits, drive by this historic site en route to the Tarawera lookout. Although not much is visible due to it being buried, it’s a site of historical significance.
• Mt. Tarawera - Enjoy the breathtaking view of Mt Tarawera and learn about the history of the 1886 eruption. This is an extraordinary photo opportunity, with a stop at a prime lookout to view the lake and mountain, both of which have significantly influenced the region’s history and landscape. Together, they offer a magnificent sight, one of the best on the tour. Mt Tarawera erupted in 1886, burying the then-popular Pink and White Terraces and the local village. The volcano can be seen on the opposite side of the lake. Don’t forget your camera! This stop may be omitted if time constraints arise due to an early cruise ship departure.
• Okere Falls - This is the final stop (time permitting) before the 50-minute journey back to the ship. If you’re fit and able, descend a 60-step walkway to stand just a meter away from a roaring grade 4 river that drains the large Rotorua and Rotoiti lakes out to the ocean, 40 km away. It’s an exhilarating experience and a fantastic photo opportunity.

• Local guide
• Bottled water
• All fees and taxes included
• Port pickup and drop-off

• Lunch

Our most popular tour offers an ideal full-day experience for those eager to explore this diverse landscape. Highlights include Mt Maunganui, New Zealand’s Kiwi and farming regions, the Rotorua 8 lakes, with a special focus on the geothermal wonders of Whakarewarewa village. Enjoy a captivating concert showcasing the rich Maori culture through song, dance, and storytelling.

As you journey to Rotorua, admire stunning beaches and luxurious multimillion-dollar homes. The 45-minute drive from the coast takes you gradually up the central plateau, passing through lush Kiwifruit plantations (with a planned stop to view the vines in full foliage and fruit) and typical New Zealand pastoral farmland, leading to our furthest inland destination, Rotorua. Discover the most popular attractions, including the Blue & Green lakes, and enjoy views of Mt Tarawera (which erupted in 1886) across a breathtaking lake. Stroll through New Zealand’s native bush, rich with ferns and towering podocarps, reminiscent of an 1800s pioneer or Maori warrior. Visit the mud pools of Kuirau Park and catch a glimpse of the geysers, including the famous Pohutu.

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