Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Valley, & Hot River
Description
Standard tour times 10:00am - 4:00pm (we will confirm with you prior). Sculptured out of volcanic activity and thousands of years in the making, Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland is considered to be New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse geothermal sightseeing attraction. You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape – the key to what you see lies below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18-sq. km. TIME PERMITTING WE WILL MAKE VARIOUS OTHER STOPS AT LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS
Tour Options
Itinerary
This will be a very colorful day to remember so have your cameras charged and ready… As we depart Tauranga, our journey through to Wai-o-tapu will take approx 1.5 hrs, so sit back and enjoy the ride, snacks and soft drinks (all inclusive) as you take in the beautiful Aotearoa scenery. Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland, is named as "One of the 20 Most Surreal Places in the World" Thousands of years in the making. Unique features include the world famous Champagne Pool naturally coloured springs, bubbling mud, steaming ground, expansive vistas, huge volcanic craters and sinter terrace formations. The Lady Knox Geyser erupts daily at 10.15am to heights of up to 20meters. The Visitor Centre has a wide range of souvenirs and a cafe where you can purchase food, drinks etc. On our leisurely drive back to your ship, you will have time to peruse the many photos from your day full of glorious colour. We will have you back at your ship at the Port of Tauranga 2 hrs prior to your sailing time.
TIME PERMITTING ONLY: Known to locals simply as ‘The Redwoods’, the 55,000ha Whakarewarewa Forest is a playground for mountain bikers, walkers, hikers and horse riders set amongst magnificent stands of towering Californian Redwoods, lush native forest and exotic trees. The Redwood Memorial Grove was planted in 1901, dedicated to the memory of the men of the New Zealand Forest Service who dies in the two World Wars. These iconic trees tower above you at approximately 67 metres (219 feet) tall providing incredible photo opportunities. This easy short walk also features a boardwalk over an old thermal pond, home to unique aquatic plant life.
TIME PERMITTING ONLY: Located at the southern end of Lake Rotorua, Sulphur Bay is a perfect example of Rotorua's famous geothermal environment. The constantly changing landscape around the bay has everything visitors to Rotorua could wish for. Silica flats, rocky terraces, and sulphur ledges sit alongside active boiling mud pools and steam vents. Even the water is interesting, its milky colour the result of sulphur particles that are suspended in the water. The bay's closeness to feeding grounds and the warmth generated by the geothermal activity, means the area attracts many native birds. Fans of bird watching can spot around 60 different species here including the banded dotterel, the scaup, and three types of gull in this protected wildlife reserve.
TIME PERMITTING ONLY: Beautiful and spacious gardens near the centre of Rotorua. The Government Gardens offer a bowling club, petanque, croquet and a golf course. Within the gardens, you'll also come across various points of interest that include the 1927 Arawa Soldiers Memorial, a number of geothermal features and the Kwaqiulth Totem Pole. The beautifully maintained gardens are a short walk to Lake Rotorua, the town centre and the wildlife refuge of Sulphur Bay. The land is one of legend and historical importance to the local Maori people, with a number of significant battles having taken place. The original Maori owners gifted the 50 acres of land in the late nineteenth century for 'the benefit of the people of the world'. The Government Gardens is also home to the Rotorua Museum , Polynesian Spa and the Blue Baths. The restored Blue Baths offer the opportunity to enjoy a dip in the warm waters and relax in an architecturally stunning building.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Comfortable footwear is recommended
Reviews(10)
Interesting self guided tour of the geo thermal landscape. Beautiful interesting scenery very surreal Landscape
Kia ora Mark, Thank you for the wonderful review! We are delighted that you enjoyed exploring our unique, surreal scenery on your self-guided tour. It is a pleasure knowing the landscape left such a great impression, and we hope to welcome you back again soon!
It was interesting to see how a volcano can leave the earth in ways we would never think of. Be ready for the natural sulfur smell. It is very strong. It was nice to experience the natural hot springs by dipping our feet into the water. The California Redwoods were huge. We got to even see how kiwi’s grow. Our guide Greg was awesome. He was very knowledgeable and very personable. He provided snack and water on our trip.
Kia ora Keum, Thank you for choosing Tino Pai Tours, such a great vivid and thoughtful review. Seeing how volcanic activity shapes the landscape really is something you have to witness to appreciate. And yes, that sulfur scent definitely makes its presence known! Pleased to hear Greg made such a positive impact on your tour. We hope to welcome you back to NZ again.
If you only have one day in Tauranga, this is a must do activity. I have seen many geothermal pools around the world, this one has the most colorful spectacular views. Too bad we don’t have enough time to walk in the Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest.
Kia ora and thank you for choosing Tino Pai Tours and for your great review. We’re so glad you enjoyed the colorful geothermal views in Tauranga—especially with your global experience, that means a lot. Sorry you missed the Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest this time, but that just means there’s more to explore on your next visit. We’d love to see you again! 😊
Great day - great guide, nice group and a comfortable van with limitless snacks - saw everything on itinerary and more - hot springs, mud pools, parks, foot baths, Californian red woods, singing mauri’s and even a kiwi farm thanks soo much
Kia ora Anthony thank you for choosing Tino Pai Tours. Thank you for the lovely review! We're so glad you enjoyed the day, the sights, and the endless snacks. It’s great to hear you experienced so many highlights of the tour. We really appreciate you joining us and hope to see you again soon!
There were two of us booked on this small group tour, however were changed to another tour company (A Day in the Bay) due to no others being booked. We were very happy with the new tour provider as Meg our tour guide was amazing. She was knowledgeable, friendly, professional and extremely funny. The tour exceeded our expectations. We saw so much in such a small amount of time. The Redwood Forest was excellent. We paid an additional $42 to walk in the treetops. The geothermal springs and geyser were exceptional. Definitely worth visiting. An excellent tour, exceptional guide (Meg) and a great day exploring the region.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a fantastic experience and that Meg took such great care of you. She truly is knowledgeable, professional, and brings a great sense of humour to the day — we’re so pleased she made it memorable for you. While we always aim to operate our tours as scheduled, occasionally small group numbers mean we collaborate with trusted partners. We work closely with A Day in the Bay, who also have a great reputation for ensuring guests receive the very best tour experience of Waiotapu possible. It’s wonderful to hear that this partnership delivered such a positive outcome for you. We’re thrilled the Redwood Forest, treetop walk, and the geothermal springs and geysers exceeded your expectations — it really is an incredible region to explore. Thank you again for your kind words. We hope to welcome you back again in the future!
Unfortunately, the trip was disappointing overall, even if Wai-O-Tapu itself is absolutely worth seeing. According to the description, you should look for a woman with green shoes outside the port exit – but no one was there. After requests we were sent to Tino Pai Tours behind the port exit. Although there was someone standing there wearing a company T-shirt who said he was our driver, we were accused of running too far, although the instructions were unclear. The minibus was very cramped and uncomfortable. With the air conditioning on, the driver could hardly understand, without air conditioning it was extremely hot – like in a sauna. In addition, the driver spoke very quickly and vaguely, so I understood almost nothing. It was particularly disappointing that programme items such as Sulphur Point and the Government Gardens were completely omitted. The driver simply asked briefly if he could continue without explaining that these were official program items and that we had actually about 30 minutes to explore there. Too bad, because Wai-O-Tapu is really impressive in the landscape and absolutely worth a visit – but unfortunately the organization and execution of this trip did not do it justice.
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We are sorry to hear that parts of your Wai-O-Tapu excursion did not meet your expectations and appreciate the opportunity to provide some clarification. Regarding the meeting point, our staff member wearing green shoes was positioned inside the black shipping container near the port, which was unfortunately bypassed. When the driver escorted you back, your lanyards were provided as planned. We acknowledge, however, that the meeting instructions were not sufficiently clear and will be improving this for future guests. No accusation was intended at any point, and we regret if the interaction was perceived that way. On the day of your tour, temperatures were exceptionally high—the hottest day recorded this year. A brand-new vehicle was used, and the air conditioning was running at full capacity to keep all passengers as comfortable as possible. We are sorry that this affected comfort levels and the audibility of commentary. With regard to the itinerary, the Government Gardens building is currently undergoing earthquake-strengthening work funded last year and is fully covered in white protective material, making it unavailable for viewing. As a result, this stop has been removed from our itinerary until 2028. We regret that this was not communicated more clearly on the day. We are pleased to hear that you found Wai-O-Tapu itself impressive, as it is truly a highlight of the region. Your feedback is valuable and helps us continue to improve both our communication and guest experience. Ngā mihi
We really enjoyed this day visiting a center of Nothern New Zealand island wirh geothermal valley, Rotorua lake and Redwoods. Mud lakes with bubbles are funny, and a view of pine forests mixed with palms will always stay with us! Special thanks to our guide Greg for his care, patience and sense of humor! :)
Kia ora and thank you for choosing Tino Pai Tours. So happy you made some great memories on your tours with Greg, he truly is a great tour guide who give everything to his passengers. Please come back and visit our shores again.
Nice geothermal park tour. 1 hr 20 minute drive through the countryside to get there but worth it. Park had nice signage and walking trails
Kia ora, many thanks for choosing Tino Pai Tours. Wai-o-tapu is quite a drive I agree although the views are breathtaking. Glad you enjoyed your day, hope you will return to our lovely shores.
Worth place to visit , great experience with lakes which is surreal. Driver is nice and the transport vehicle is comfortable.
Kia ora Fei, many thanks for choosing Tino Pai Tours. Wai-O-Tapu is truly a gem. A very popular tour. We are so pleased to hear you enjoyed you day with us. We hope to see you again on our shores.
Great guide lots to see very enjoyable Thermal park was amazing Saw glow worms too The van was comfortable Kids had a blast
Kia ora Sharon. We are glad you are taking away some great memories of your day in Rotorua, and hope you return to see more of our beautiful country.
