Rotorua Highlights Tour from Auckland
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Rotorua's geothermal wonders
- Experience Maori culture at Te Puia
- Relax at the rejuvenating Polynesian Spa
- Stroll through the Redwoods Treewalk
- Enjoy scenic views of Lake Rotorua
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Rotorua's geothermal parks
- Visit to Te Puia Maori Cultural Centre
- Entry to Polynesian Spa
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Pass by: Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the city’s top highlights.
Pass by: Exiting Auckland we travel south through the stunning Waikato countryside, the most extensive farming area in the world, encountering beautiful scenery, might rivers, great photo opportunities, impressive mountains and several farm animals along the way. During our adventure in the Waikato we will also stop for a quick coffee break at a special location.
Pass by: Continuing our journey to Rotorua we pass through Tirau famously dubbed the 'Corrugated Iron Capital of the World' because of the many unique corrugated iron sculptures and buildings. This town never fails to get a look and a laugh and our guides will point out all the main highlights on the way through.
Spend around 90 minutes exploring the world-famous Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Wander through this surreal geothermal landscape, with its steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and the vibrant Champagne Pool.
We make our way to Secret Spot so you can enjoy lunch and recharge for your afternoon activity.
After lunch, your guide will take you to your afternoon activity (selected during the booking process). Options are a guided tour Te Puia, Redwoods Treewalk, Deluxe Lake Spa at Polynesian Spa or Secret Spot Hot Tubs.
Take a guided drive through Rotorua’s famous landmarks, including Lake Rotorua, the Government Gardens, Whangapipiro (Rachel Spring), the Blue Baths, and the historic Rotorua Museum.
Sadly we must start to head north again but your day is not over with a fully guided return trip to Auckland with secret stops along the way.
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
- Please inform the operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.
- Children under 5 years old can join for free if they do not occupy a seat.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Bring a swimsuit and towel for the Polynesian Spa.
- Consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
- Treetop Walk / Zipline Adventure Activity: Involves heights of up to 30 metres and carries an element of personal risk.
- Treetop Walk / Zipline Potential Hazards: Risks may include uneven terrain, moving platforms, slips, trips, falls, weather conditions, equipment failure, and, in rare cases, serious injury.
- Treetop Walk / Zipline Participant Responsibility: Comprehensive safety measures are in place; however, participation is at your own risk and personal safety cannot be guaranteed.
Traveler reviews
Rotorua experience
Thoroughly enjoy the whole experience. Easy pick up, comfortable transport, great Informative guide. Rotorua is like nothing I’ve ever seen. Such an amazing landscape. The secret hot tubs was a relaxing way to end the day.
Rotorua and TePuia were amazing!
What a great time from Auckland to Te Puia, Waiotapu, and Rotorua! The included lunch was delicious and Simon was an excellent driver and guide. Seeing the Māori student artists and a kiwi bird live at Te Puia were definitely highlights! Thank you! Love Cheeky Kiwi tours!!
First tour for a solo traveler
This ended up being my first tour in New Zealand. After grabbing coffee at a stopover, we started the day with a 90 minute trail at Wai O Tapu followed by lunch. We capped off the day with a dip at the different mineral pools in the Polynesian Spa. Amazing experience with a view of the lake just ahead. Thanks, Simon, for being such an informative guide!
Great
Hanoz was the BEST- super knowledgeable on all things Aotearoa and was a pleasant and friendly driver/tour guide. Please give him a raise. Also, this tour was well worth the price. 10/10 would recommend. Book Cheeky Kiwi travel for any NZ tours
Long journey but John made it engaging
John our guide is full of nuggets of information about the Maoris and history of the places we visited. Gave us just the right amount of time to explore and also made sure that we got back to our hotels on time. While the entire trip was more than 12 hours in total, it didn't feel that long because of how engaging John was.