Embark on a thrilling day tour in Rotorua, New Zealand, exploring the captivating geothermal wonders of Wai o Tapu and Waimangu. Immerse yourself in Maori culture at Te Puia and discover the rich history and customs of the Maori people.
Embark on a thrilling day tour in Rotorua, New Zealand, exploring the captivating geothermal wonders of Wai o Tapu and Waimangu. Immerse yourself in Maori culture at Te Puia and discover the rich history and customs of the Maori people.
- Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland - Embark on an enchanting adventure to Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of the globe’s most extraordinary and dynamic geothermal parks, situated just 20 minutes from Rotorua CBD. Enjoy a guided tour through Wai O Tapu for about 45-60 minutes to discover its vibrant and distinctive landscape before heading to the…
- Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland - Embark on an enchanting adventure to Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of the globe’s most extraordinary and dynamic geothermal parks, situated just 20 minutes from Rotorua CBD. Enjoy a guided tour through Wai O Tapu for about 45-60 minutes to discover its vibrant and distinctive landscape before heading to the magnificent Lady Knox Geyser.
- Lady Knox Geyser - The journey proceeds to the Lady Knox Geyser, a true wonder that erupts once daily, precisely at 10:15 AM. Join the exploration to learn the intriguing story behind its remarkable punctuality!
- Waimangu Volcanic Valley - Next, explore the Jurassic Waimangu Valley, the world’s youngest geothermal ecosystem. Here, experience the raw power and stunning beauty of Mother Nature, along with the dramatic aftermath of the 1886 volcanic eruption of Mt. Tarawera. Spend approximately 90 minutes at Waimangu, including a relaxing 30-minute lunch break at the scenic Waimangu Café. Please note: Lunch is not included in the price.
- Te Puia - Finally, join a local guide for an engaging journey to Te Puia, New Zealand’s leading Māori arts and crafts institute. Gain insights into the rich traditions of Māori carving, weaving, and casting. At the heart of Te Puia is 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, approximately 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 in its care. By the end of the day, witness not one, but two magnificent geysers, and satisfy your curiosity for New Zealand’s iconic kiwi birds! Spend approximately 60-90 minutes at Te Puia.
- Rotorua - As the remarkable day concludes, enjoy a relaxing and picturesque scenic drive, showcasing the natural beauty and local charm of Rotorua. Travel along routes that reveal stunning vistas, allowing you to soak in the serene atmosphere and capture some final, memorable photographs. The 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 see some of the smaller, hidden lakes that dot the region, each with its own unique character. Panoramic viewpoints: Navigate to elevated spots offering 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.

- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Other
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Other
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Bottled water
- Lunch
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…
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.
- Medium level of fitness required
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.