Take a 5.5-hour tour to Rotorua's leading attraction and highlight spots. Explore the Te Puia Thermal Reserve, a geothermal valley of boiling mud holes, spouting geysers, and Maori culture, before visiting and tasting a kiwifruit orchard.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 5.5 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
Experience
Highlights
- See the largest geyser in the southern hemisphere along with boiling springs and bubbling mud pools
- Spot the iconic New Zealand kiwi bird at the nocturnal house
- Explore Te Puia Maori Village on a guided tour with an experienced local Maori guide
- Visit a working kiwifruit orchard to taste the fruit and other products
Full description
Join a 5.5-hour small-group shore excursion from the port of Tauranga in a luxury air-conditioned vehicle. Explore the marvels this land holds as well as the forces beneath its crust whilst encountering hot bubbling mud pools and erupting geysers. You'll encounter Pohutu, the largest geyser in the southern hemisphere, which has steam rising from every crevice. You will also be in awe as you spot the iconic kiwi bird in its special darkened enclosure, and will learn how the locals protect these extraordinary endangered birds.
Get a deeper understanding of Maori art and tradition by listening to stories and legends which have been passed down over generations. Afterwards, watch master woodcarvers and artisans trained in the intricate art of weaving flax, with Te Puia housing the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute since the 1920s.
After leaving Te Puia you will drive through Rotorua past the Tudor style museum and government gardens. On your way back to port you'll make a final stop at a working kiwi fruit orchard to learn how this wondrous fruit became established in New Zealand. It's surprisingly not a native plant, but an interesting story will explain this all. You will have the chance to taste test different varieties, along with learning a little knowledge about why this fruit thrives there. Once done at the kiwi orchard, you will be returned back to the ship with plenty of time to spare.
Includes
- All entrance fees
- Guided tour at Te Puia
- Port pickup and drop-off
- On-board commentary throughout your journey
Not suitable for
- People with mobility impairments
- Wheelchair users
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers must fill out a travel information form
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Please arrive 15 minutes before tour starts. After leaving your ship walk towards the official port gates and your guides will be waiting with your name on their boards. We will be wearing grey shirts with lime green logo
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What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Comfortable clothes
Know before you go
- Please provide your cruise ship name when booking