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Rotorua Highlights Tour: Waiotapu, Hot Tubs & Lunch from Auckland

Offered by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

From

$384.00 per person

4.7 (132 reviews)

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Booking handled by our partner, Viator

12 hours (approx.)Pickup Available Mobile or paper ticket accepted Offered in: English

Full-day tour from Auckland to Rotorua with a guided visit to Te Puia, Pōhutu Geyser and a private cedar hot tub at Secret Spot Hot Tubs.

Tour Overview

Travel from Auckland to Rotorua on a full day tour that pairs geothermal activity with time to slow down. As you leave New Zealand’s largest city, your guide points out key city highlights before the journey heads south through the Waikato countryside, with views of farmland, rivers, mountains and farm animals. A short stop is included for a coffee break, and you’ll also pass through Tirau, known for its corrugated iron buildings and sculptures.

In Rotorua, the main experience is a fully guided visit to Te Puia. Here you’ll see Pōhutu Geyser, geothermal craters and other geothermal events, alongside Māori architecture and The National Māori Arts School. The tour also includes Māori cultural elements such as storytelling, carving and weaving demonstrations, plus the chance to view a Kiwi bird in the Kiwi viewing house.

After Te Puia, the pace shifts at Secret Spot Hot Tubs. In a forest setting, you can relax in a private cedar hot tub filled with mineral-rich water, surrounded by native bush. The day also includes a guided driving tour of Rotorua city, taking in Lake Rotorua, Rotorua Museum, Government Gardens, Whangapipiro, Rachel Spring, and the Blue Baths, before the guided return to Auckland.

What's Included

  • Free choice from a set menu, provided on the day
  • Water & Snacks available
  • Small Group and Fully Guided Bus Tour
  • Secret Spot Hot Tubs
  • Wai O Tapu Geothermal Wonderland

Not Included:

  • Restroom on board
  • Children aged between 5 & 7 are legally required to travel in a booster/safety seat. You can hire these, or you can provide your own

What To Expect

  1. 1

    Auckland Central

    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 without stopping

  2. 2

    Waikato Region

    Exiting Auckland we travel south through the stunning Waikato countryside, the most extensive farming area in the world, encountering beautiful scenery, mighty 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 without stopping

  3. 3

    Tirau

    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.

    Pass by without stopping

  4. 4

    Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

    Explore one of New Zealand’s most colorful and unique geothermal parks. Walk among steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and the striking Champagne Pool for an unforgettable experience.

    1 hour 30 minutes

    Admission: Included

  5. 5

    Secret Spot Hot Tubs Rotorua

    We make our way to Secret Spot so you can enjoy lunch , before relaxing into your afternoon activity.

    45 minutes

    Admission: Included

  6. 6

    Secret Spot Hot Tubs Rotorua

    After lunch, You'll be treated to an intimate and tranquil oasis nestled in a forest setting. Here, you'll experience the ultimate relaxation in private, cedar hot tubs with a stunning view of nature. Enjoy the serenity as you soak in mineral-rich water, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. With each tub thoughtfully designed for privacy, you’ll have the chance to relax and rejuvenate in peace, surrounded by native forest and the soothing sounds of nature.

    45 minutes

    Admission: Included

  7. 7

    Rotorua

    To finish off our Rotorua experience we do a guided driving tour seeing the most famous sites in Rotorua city including: Lake Rotorua, Rotorua Museum, Government Gardens, Whangapipiro (Rachel Spring) & the Blue Baths.

    10 minutes

  8. 8

    Auckland

    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.

    Pass by without stopping

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup available

Please select your preferred pickup location when booking through Viator.

Pickup details

*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point (SkyCity Hotel). You are welcome to update this at any time. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there. *Pick-ups can begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 5 minutes prior to your specific pickup time. ...

Important Information

• Please note: entrance tickets and transport included. This voucher will not be accepted if presented directly at the venue. *You will receive an email with important pickup information in the days prior, please read this information.

Additional Info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately and wear comfortable walking shoes
  • 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.
  • You will be travelling with other guests who may be participating in a different afternoon activity
  • Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.