12-Hour Wai-O-Tapu and Rotorua Nature Tour from Auckland

Pickup from Auckland CBD hotels.

• Morning pick-up from SkyCity Hotel, Auckland CBD, from 5:45 am onward.

• Departure is at 6:00 am.

• Please be on time or arrive before departure to avoid disappointment.

• Approximately 15 minutes are required to complete all pickups.

Travel from Auckland to Tirau / Ruakura.

• Travel from Auckland to Tirau / Ruakura via SH 1.

• The drive is approximately 2 hours, covering 175 kilometres.

Travel from Tirau / Ruakura to Wai-O-Tapu.

• Continue the journey from Tirau / Ruakura to Wai-O-Tapu.

• This drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Boiling Mud Pool - Wai O Tapu Scenic Reserve.

• Visit the famous Mud Pool at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland near Rotorua.

• Observe bubbling and boiling mud created by underground geothermal activity.

• Experience the fascinating display of volcanic gases released through thick grey mud.

• Explore the crater formed by a volcanic eruption and enjoy one of New Zealand's most active geothermal attractions.

Lady Knox Geyser presentation.

• Witness the famous Lady Knox Geyser eruption at 10:15 am.

• Watch the geyser erupt up to 10 to 20 metres high for approximately one hour.

• Learn about the history of the geyser, discovered in the early 20th century.

• Discover why the geyser was named after Lady Constance Knox, daughter of a former New Zealand governor.

Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland walk.

• Explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland near Rotorua.

• Discover vibrant geothermal landscapes filled with bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and colourful hot springs.

• Visit the iconic Champagne Pool and other geothermal attractions.

• Enjoy scenic walking trails offering close-up views of geysers and geothermal phenomena.

• Experience one of New Zealand's most unique natural attractions, filled with surreal colours and geothermal beauty.

Redwood Forest walk.

• Visit the famous Redwood Forest in Rotorua, known for its towering Californian Coast Redwoods planted in 1901.

• Enjoy free walking trails through majestic redwood trees and lush native forest landscapes.

• Experience peaceful surroundings, fresh air, and vibrant greenery throughout the forest.

• You may choose to participate in the optional Tree Walk at your own expense, while others enjoy the free walking trails.

• Discover one of Rotorua's most popular outdoor and nature attractions.

Crystal Clear Blue Springs.

• Visit the famous Blue Spring in Putāruru, known for its crystal-clear, vibrant blue waters.

• Explore the Te Waihou Walkway through native bush and alongside the Waihou River.

• Learn how the spring supplies approximately 70 percent of New Zealand's bottled water due to its exceptional purity.

• Experience the constant 11 degrees Celsius water temperature and impressive water flow of 42 cubic metres per minute.

• Enjoy the peaceful beauty and natural surroundings of this remarkable spring.

Corrugated structures - Tirau Town.

• Explore the charming town of Tirau, located in the Waikato region of New Zealand.

• Discover the town's famous corrugated iron sheep and dog structures.

• Visit the local i-SITE visitor centre and wool shop housed inside the unique buildings.

• Enjoy cosy cafes, boutique shops, local art, and the creative atmosphere of the town.

• Experience one of New Zealand's most quirky and memorable roadside stops.

Auckland CBD hotels drop-off.

• Begin the return journey from Tirau back to Auckland CBD.

• Travel approximately 2 hours back toward Auckland.

• Drop off travellers at Auckland Airport transfer points and airport hotels along the way.

• Conclude your geothermal and nature adventure through New Zealand's scenic North Island.