




Experience the unique and special natural beauty of Rotorua, the geothermal hot spot of New Zealand, just 1 hour's drive from Tauranga. Learn about the geothermal features and its use by the Māori people, the first to settle in New Zealand over 800 years ago. Entry is not included to the private geothermal reserves, but we do see boiling mud pools, crystal clear bubbling hot springs and volcanic lakes. Relax at the foot bathing pools in Kuirau Park, (towels provided) after a short walk to see the bubbling mud and steaming lakes. Whakarewarewa Village is our stop for a snack lunch, here you can take a peek at the village (entry not included.) before visiting the Redwoods Forrest where we take a short, guided tour through a purpose-built Glow Worm Grotto, then a walk among the treetops on a network of easy-to-use suspended pathways, with access by a gentle spiral ramp, no steps are needed. The tour start time will be confirmed when your booking is accepted, to suit the ship times.
This area of Rotorua is literally a hot bed of geothermal activity, with steaming lakes and bubbling mud pools. A visit to the foot bathing area lets you enjoy the warm waters that naturally occur throughout the region. Take a walk through the park to see the steaming lakes and the location of the last eruption here on 2001.
We make a stop here on the edge of Lake Rotorua to see the effect the geothermal activity has on the lake, right in the heart of Rotorua. A popular spot for many of the native birds that also enjoy the warm waters created by the outflows from the nearby geysers and hot water springs.
We make a stop in the Government Gardens, location of the Rotorua Bathhouse and Museum, the Blue Baths and the naturally occurring Rachel's Spring, source of the geothermal water for the Polynesian Spa. Chance for some great photos and to walk through the extensive flower displays.
Take a walk on suspended walkways high up in the amazing Redwood Forest in Rotorua, easily accessed by a spiral ramp. Look down onto the forest floor and get a great view of these majestic trees and the Tree Ferns below you. We include a short, guided tour through a Glow Worm Grotto, a purpose-built facility where you will see thousands of glow worms up close.
We will show you the sights of Rotorua as we travel around the city visiting as many destinations as possible.
As we depart (or return) to the port of Tauranga you will travel through the city, one of New Zealand's fastest growing cities and home to the country's largest port.
Departing the Port of Tauranga where you cruise ship is berthed, we will drive through one of New Zealand's most popular and most expensive beach side suburbs - Mount Maunganui, driving along the sea front of Marine Parade past multi-million-dollar homes.
We travel through the world capital of Kiwi Fruit, otherwise known as the town of TePuke and the Bay of Plenty region, which accounts for 85% of New Zealand's Kiwifruit production. Time permitting, we will visit a kiwifruit orchard where you will see the vines growing and be able to taste and buy kiwifruit products.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Small-Group Rotorua Naturally Shore Excursion - Tauranga lasts about 7 hours. The itinerary has 8 stops.
Prices start at $141 per person for this Tauranga experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Yes, pickup is offered.
The experience is available in EN.
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 20 participants.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Family friendly tour You must provide your own infant/baby seat if required.
The Tree Walk involves walking up a ramp to approx 20 metres above ground and then walking along up 28 swing rope bridges between the trees. It is safe and secure but good mobility is needed as there are steps in some areas.
Confirmation is sent by the operator within 24 hours of booking.
Travellers rate it 4.6 out of 5 across 328 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Cruise Tours Tauranga.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Small-Group Rotorua Naturally Shore Excursion - Tauranga | 7 hours | 4.6 (328) | $141 | |
Shore Excursion: Half Day Small Group Auckland Scenic Tour - 4 HOURS | 4 hours | 5.0 (23) | $66 | View |
Shore excursion to Rotorua including Gondola and luge rides | 7 hours | 4.6 (12) | $215 | View |
Wellington Guided eBike Tour-Cruise Shore Excursion | 3–4 hours | 5.0 (113) | $112 | View |
Auckland Shore Excursion: Half-Day Guided City Tour | 3 hours | 4.8 (151) | $63 | View |
Wellington Shore Excursion City Sightseeing Tour | 3 hours | 4.4 (119) | $89 | View |
Private Tour Waiotapu Geothermal Shore Excursion up to 8 passengers | 5–6 hours | 4.8 (6) | $789 | View |