How to Plan Your Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland

Are you planning to visit Rotorua during your stay in New Zealand? If so, you won’t want to miss the Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland. This tour is the perfect way to see some of New Zealand’s top destinations in just one day. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu so that you can make the most of your time in Rotorua.

Overview of the Tour

The Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland is a full-day tour that takes you to two of New Zealand’s must-see destinations. The tour includes a visit to the Wai-O-Tapu geothermal park and a coach tour of Rotorua with stops along the way. Pick-up and drop-off are provided from major hotels.

What’s Included

The tour includes the following:

– Small Group & Fully Guided Tour
– Bottled water
– Snacks
– Entrance fees for Wai-O-Tapu geothermal park
– Coach tour of Rotorua with stops along the way
– Live commentary from the driver-guide
– Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Please note that food, drinks, and souvenirs are not included in the tour price.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Hotel pick-ups are provided from select hotels in Auckland. Pick-ups start up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time. If you don’t see your hotel on the list, select the closest location to arrange a pick-up.

How to Book the Tour

If you’re interested in booking the Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland, you can do so on the Viator website. This tour is operated by a third-party company, and the booking process is straightforward. Simply click on the following link and follow the instructions to book your tour: book the tour here.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland is a full-day tour that departs from Auckland in the morning. Here’s what you can expect on the tour:

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park

The tour starts with a visit to the Wai-O-Tapu geothermal park, which is located about 30 minutes outside of Rotorua. This park is known for its geothermal activity, including geysers, mud pools, and hot springs. You will have time to walk around the park at your own pace and take in the stunning scenery. Be sure to bring your camera with you as there are many great photo opportunities at the park.

Explore Rotorua

After your visit to Wai-O-Tapu, the tour continues with a coach tour of Rotorua. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at key points of interest, such as the Government Gardens and the Rotorua Museum. Your driver-guide will provide live commentary and answer any questions you may have about the area.

Return to Auckland

After your tour of Rotorua, the coach will return to Auckland, where you will be dropped off at your hotel.

Tips for the Tour

To make the most of your Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland, here are a few tips:

– Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking
– Bring a jacket in case of inclement weather
– Don’t forget your camera and/or smartphone for taking photos
– Bring some cash with you for any souvenirs or snacks you may want to buy during the tour

Conclusion

The Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland is an excellent way to see two of New Zealand’s must-see destinations in just one day. By following the tips in this guide, you can plan your tour and make the most of your time in Rotorua. Be sure to book your tour in advance to secure your spot, and don’t forget to bring your camera with you to capture the stunning scenery.

Insider’s Guide to Rotorua: Uncovering Hidden Gems and Must-See Attractions

Rotorua, located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, is a city that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. While there are plenty of tourist hotspots in the city, there are also some lesser-known attractions that only locals know about. Here’s a rundown of some hidden gems you should consider adding to your itinerary:

Local Attractions: Uncovering hidden gems

Kawaha Point is one such hidden gem. Nestled away from the more touristy spots, Kawaha Point offers stunning views across Lake Rotorua and is the perfect place for a picnic or a relaxing walk around the shoreline.

The sculpture trail at the Government Gardens is another hidden gem that is often missed by tourists. Featuring a range of contemporary sculptures, this trail is a unique encounter with history, culture and art. It’s a beautiful area to stroll around, unwind and admire pieces of art a little out of the ordinary.

Dining Spots: Exploring the Local Cuisine and Culture

For foodies, the Rotorua Farmers Market is a must-visit destination. The market showcases local produce, crafts, and homemade baked goods that are simply delicious. For an authentic Maori food experience check out Ruapehu Homestead, which offers an excellent menu showcasing some traditional Maori recipes, and listen to the chefs and owners’ stories of their heritage and the special significance of food.

Another must-see and taste destination is Pig & Whistle Historic Pub in the heart of the CBD. The interior has a cozy, classic pub feel and you can try some local favourites including their famous seafood chowder to a battered sausage that is comfort food through and through.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself in Rotorua’s Traditions and Festivals

Rotorua is rich in culture and offers a range of experiences to immerse yourself in traditional Maori culture. Visit Whakarewarewa to see geothermal wonders and hear about its cultural significance. Book a Hangi dinner at Tamaki Village and be captivated by a cultural performance, showcasing traditional storytelling and Maori dances. Or, if you’re looking for a unique experience, try your hand at Poi making or a Waka Ama experience.

Local History: Delving Into Fascinating Stories From the Past

Rotorua has a rich and fascinating history, and there are plenty of stories worth discovering. The Buried Village gives a unique glimpse into the past, depicting the eruption of Mt. Tarawera in 1886. You can also take a guided tour of Ohinemutu, a historic Maori village that dates back to the 14th century, and hear about the fascinating stories associated with the Marae and its people.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Unforgettable and Unique Memories

Rotorua offers a plethora of off-the-beaten-path experiences. One such experience is taking a helicopter ride over the geothermal areas of Hell’s Gate, where you can witness the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand’s natural landscapes from a birds-eye view. Also, try a peaceful paddle on the stunning Lakes Tikitapu and Rotokakahi (nicknamed the Blue and Green Lakes) that offer an alternative to mainstream tourist spots and stunning landscapes to be explored.

In conclusion, Rotorua has a lot of hidden gems, local cuisine and traditions to offer. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to come back for more.