Location: Rotorua
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What to do and see in Rotorua, North Island: The Best Historical & Heritage Tours
Bubbling mineral springs and pools promise maximum relaxation in Rotorua, on New Zealand's North Island. Therapeutic hot mud pools, dramatic geysers and a buried village are within easy reach of the city. What happens in the bubbling mud geysers of "Rotovegas"—the area at the top of Fenton Street—stays in Rotovegas. Once you've made the most of the mud, soar nearly 2,000 feet on the Skyline Gondola for views of Lake Rotorua, then zip back down to explore the lake by paddle steamer, fishing charter or WWII amphibious vehicle.
Restaurants in Rotorua
1. Private Shore Excursion Rotorua/ Tauranga Maori culture, Geyser & concert
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
THESE ARE some ideas to enjoy on a Private Tour ..........Enjoy a fun and informative tour with an experienced local guide showcasing the iconic Mount Maunganui, beautiful sandy beaches and million dollar homes plus many Rotorua and Tauranga's highlights. Also visit Kiwifruit Country Store for a kiwifruit tasting, orchard tour and souvenirs, plus beautiful beaches waterfalls and much more. In Rotorua visit the Geothermal area at either the living Maori Village at Whakarewarewa or Te Puia and immerse yourself in Maori culture. See the bubbling pools and stunning Pohutu Geyser, plus the Maori Cultural performance including the famous "Haka." Other attractions can include soaking in the soothing mineral waters at Polynesian Spa and enjoy breathtaking views and thrill seeking rides at the Skyline Gondola.
Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), Bottled water, Professional guide, Port pickup, Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities
Reviewed By Claireg2007
We had an amazing day with Arrow tours. We were large getting off the cruise but the new owner Toby drove us to the first stop off point. Kerry was an excellent guide and made sure that we all enjoyed the day. I hope that the recent happenings in the world will clear soon and wish you every success.
2. Private Full-Day Rotorua Tour from Auckland
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Get ready to explore the amazing Rotorua. Rotorua is New Zealand's ultimate holiday destination for locals and overseas visitors. Roto means lake and Rua means two – together, Rotorua means 'Second Lake'. A dream spot for sightseeing and a region steeped in Māori legend, history, and culture. On this tour, you will visit famous attractions such as the Pikirangi Maori Village, Kiwi House, and the Geothermal Valley. This is a tour including a driver and we can match your ideal itinerary or you can take our suggested. The tour does not include entrance fees. Highlights: - Te Puia - Government Garden - Redwood Forest - Green/Blue Lake - Rotorua Lake - Private tour allows for a flexible itinerary
Inclusions: Light refreshments and bottled water, Transport by private vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: Lunch, Food and drinks, unless specified, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Entrance Tickets
Reviewed By K7293HPjosephh
Wonderful day trip to the glow worms and the Hobbit farm Driver was the best and took great care of us Long day but worth the expense of a private car
3. Whakarewarewa Village Guided Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Experience the warmth of our Legacy Guided Tours through New Zealand’s iconic Maori village. Our village guides are direct descendants of the early Māori guides who’s legacy shaped tourism in New Zealand for generations. Their insights, knowledge and legendary hospitality (manaakitanga) adds depth and richness to the experience you’ll have at Whakarewarewa.
Inclusions: Entry Ticket
Exclusions:
Reviewed By stut254
The self-guided walk was pretty good but overall we had a sour taste due to the false advertising. The web page for the self-guided walk states that you'll "find yourself face-to-face with Nature, Hot Spring Lakes, Mud Pools, Geysers and native manuka bushlands". It also specifically mentions the Pohutu Geyser and has a photo of it. But it turns out the Pohutu Geyser is not included in that tour. Only the more expensive guided tour. So we left disappointed and annoyed. It was the attraction we wanted to see most of all. We noticed a number of people with the yellow self-guided stickers were coming back from the geyser path. They obviously decided to go anyway. But we're the type of people who stick to the rules, even when the rules are wrong. The rest of the attractions were ok and we enjoyed it enough. If they fix up the website then we would've been much happier, or paid more to see the geyser.
4. Rotorua Hot Lakes Bike Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 576 reviews
Happy Ewe Cycle Tours is a leisurely 3 hour cycling adventure with no hills and about 45 minutes of cycling time. It is safe to expect a little bit of everything with us, as we use science, nature, culture and history to give an educational and interactive experience highlighting the geothermal wonders within the central city. You will remember this journey as you shoot mud pools with thermometer guns, test the pH levels of hot springs and laugh at the how our guides make science exciting for you. Ranked as the best city cycling activity in New Zealand on TripAdvisor and one of the best activities in the country, this is perfect for couples, families or travellers of any age looking to discover the best of Rotorua.
Inclusions: Free bottle of water with your tour., Use of bicycle, Free photos of your incredible journey, WiFi on board
Exclusions:
Reviewed By SVML8
Such an awesome way to see the highlights of Rotorua with Roge and his mum, such easy going and fun guides, thanks for showing us around and providing us with knowledgeable information about Rotorua that even a BOP local didn't know about.
5. Kakapo 21 Day New Zealand Small Group Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 41 reviews
Small Groups - Maximum 18 travellers per tour. NZ Family Owned since 1971 - Many NZ tour companies are Australian owned. Off the Beaten Track Destinations - where big coaches can't go. Flexibility - Time to add as many (or few) activities around the country as you like. Walking - For those who would like to, there are lots of short walks all over the country, your guides will help you find them. Kiwi Guides - Our guides are all passionate Kiwis who know the country like the back of their hands.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Private transportation, 20 Included Activities as per itinerary
Exclusions: Flights from your home country to New Zealand, Single Accommodation Supplement for Sole Room Use.
Reviewed By Wander636823
Kudos to Moa Tours for organising such a great trip. Te Wai Poumanu is beautiful in April with all the autumn colours. This was my first trip with Moa and I have already booked a second one. Special mention must be made of our guide Andrew. His knowledge, passion and enthusiasm shone throughout and he has a great sense of humour, much appreciated when dealing with so many diverse customers. He always went the extra mile to make everyone’s journey enjoyable. I would highly recommend both Moa and Andrew for kiwis wanting to experience the beauty of their own country.
6. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour Including Te Puia from Auckland
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 19 reviews
Experience the world famous geothermal and Maori cultural wonders of Te Puia. This unforgettable tour combines natures power and beauty with Maori culture all in one day. Highlights: • Te Puia Geothermal Park & Pohutu • Maori Cultural Village and Arts School • Rotorua City Highlights • Waikato Farm Region While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it’s our small groups, guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. This day tour gives you the time to explore Te Puia and participate in the extra options if you choose, unlike many other tours. Led by our passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.
Inclusions: Small Group and Fully Guided Tour, Entry Tickets, Bottled water, Snacks
Exclusions: Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Food and drinks, unless specified, Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking
Reviewed By M6828DUlisao
We enjoyed this tour from start to finish. It was a fantastic day out. Our tour guide Mani was amazing. He had such a wealth of knowledge and was so friendly and involved in our whole experience. I would have to say he has been the best tour guide we have ever had. The highlight of the day was our visit to Cathedral Cove ( such a breathtaking place) and Hot Water Beach. A very different experience for us
7. Shore Excursion to the Maori Culture Centre: Kiwi birds, and Geo-Thermal Valley
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 99 reviews
I am your Maori Tour Guide. As a Maori Tour Guide I am here to give you a genuine understanding of my Maori Culture and to share with you some of our myths and legends. I will explain the protocols you must observe during the Maori welcome and before entering into the Meeting House. On this small-group shore excursion from the Port of Tauranga, you will take a walk on Papamoa Beach, visit the Kiwi House which houses the iconic, endangered Kiwi bird. I will guide you down into the geo-thermal valley to get up close to boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, I will take you into the carving and weaving schools where students learn these ancient skills so they in turn can teach others so our traditions are never lost. I will help you avoid the large bus tour groups and show you the best vantage points for your photos. I will also take you into the city where you will have time to purchase some lunch at one of my favorite cafes or to browse through some of the shops.
Inclusions: Port pickup and drop-off, Driver/guide, Live commentary on board
Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities
Reviewed By NativeCA4
We had a group of 8 that toured New Zealand’s south island with Jim (of Jim Archer Tours) for 10 days in December 2019, and we highly recommend him! Jim was knowledgeable and flexible, and we felt well taken care of from our first contact through our last day of travel. The overall cost was reasonable and much less than another tour we were considering. During planning, we told him some of the places we wanted to see, and he put together an agenda with those and more. We later changed some details, and he happily accommodated us. Jim took care of all lodging and transportation, and even tickets for activities we needed to purchase in advance, making everything worry free. A week before we arrived, a mudslide took out the road to Franz Joseph, so he re-routed us to stay at Lake Tekapo (a gorgeous lake). If traveling on our own, we would not have known until we got to the road closure! We had 10 wonderful scenic days traveling the south island. The van was comfortable, the sites were amazing, and Jim was friendly and flexible throughout. By the time we got come, we were already talking about someday returning to see the north island – with Jim as our tour guide.
8. Tarawera and Rotorua Lakes Eco Tour by Boat with Guide
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 96 reviews
The Tarawera and Lakes Tour is the best way to appreciate the scenery of the Rotorua lakes district and learn more about the history of the land, the people, and the devastating 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera. This unique 120 minute fully guided adventure takes place on land and water on-board in a genuine WWII Amphibious Duck. Visit 4 of Rotorua's stunning lakes and travel on 3 with the highlight being the stunning Lake Tarawera at the base of the mighty Mt Tarawera. Comfortable seating for all and great for families, couples and single travelers wanting to learn about our rich history and view natural landscapes. We pride ourselves on having tour guides that are highly knowledgeable and engaging. Our tours are done in a small group environment.
Inclusions: Live commentary on board, Driver/guide
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation to/from attractions
Reviewed By Melli257
Had a hilarious and very informative time with Shelley as our host on Rotorua Duck Tours. Something a bit different too in an ex army vehicle that goes straight from land onto water. The blue lake was a highlight too, glorious! Great value for money with our family of five including three children aged 17, 15, 11.
9. Rotorua Duck Boat Guided City and Lakes Tour
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 222 reviews
Discover Rotorua on a unique 90-105 minute sightseeing adventure on-board a WWII amphibious vehicle able to travel on land and water! Our tours leave at regular intervals from a central city location and explore Rotorua's most stunning scenery. We have 18 lakes in the Rotorua region all set within lush native New Zealand bush. Our tours are fully guided as well with our tour guides covering everything from Maori migration, geothermal history, history of Rotorua and much more.
Inclusions: Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, 90-minute tour on authentic World War II amphibious vehicle, Free "duck caller" for every passenger
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities
Reviewed By JollyJolene
This was a great experience. Marcus was our guide and was both informative and humorous He related his tour to all the people on the vehicle. I highly recommend this tour even if you are local as you learn lots of interesting information about Rotorua.
10. Volcanic Valley Self Guided Walking and Hiking at Waimangu
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 97 reviews
Explore New Zealand’s geothermal landscapes at your own pace on this independent Waimangu hiking tour. Follow rugged hiking trails through the Waimangu region, and take in top natural attractions like Frying Pan Lake, Inferno Crater Lake, and Lake Rotomahana. Trek past the unique craters and steaming geysers, and capture the spectacular scenery on camera. At the end of your hike, return to your starting point via the shuttle bus.
Inclusions: Admission Fee for Self-Guided Walk , Guide Sheet , Internal Shuttle Bus, Air-conditioned vehicle
Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Food and drinks (available to purchase), Transport to/from attractions
Reviewed By Emma W
We got a great deal through BookMe and really enjoyed the tour. We turned up early and managed to complete the entire self-guided walking part, before the boat cruise. You get to see a wide variety of volcanic attractions and the guide book is very detailed. The boat cruise takes you out across Lake Rotomahana, loomed over by Mount Tarawera. You pass by where the Pink and White Terraces once stood. You also get to see a wide variety of volcanic attractions along the shoreline, along with birdlife. I haven't been to any of the other paid volcanic attractions around Rotorua, so I don't know how this one compares to the others. I feel this one has a point of difference with the boat cruise. There are only small geysers, but they are always firing. We had lunch at the café, the food was reasonably priced and very good. I will recommend this tour to anyone visiting Rotorua.
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