Te Puia Geothermal Valley Experience

Description

This itinerary has been designed to showcase the range of experiences and landscapes on offer in the central north island, and all within a couple of hours of each other. Starting in Auckland travel though the picturesque coastal region of the Bay of Plenty and on to the famous geothermal wonderland of Rotorua where Māori  culture abounds During the trip south, you will encounter stunning scenery, great photo opportunities, beautiful mountains and see several different farm animals and  will also pass through the  the stunning Fitzgerald Glade to visit most popular tourist destinations of Rotorua historical government gardens, thermal springs and therapeutic world famous Polynesian spa.

There are few places in the world where geothermal phenomena such as geysers and mud pools are as extensive and accessible as in Rotorua. Situated five minutes from central Rotorua, Te Puia is an iconic destination for visitors featuring the world famous Pohutu Geyser, Māori cultural performances, live Kiwi, boiling mud pools, native bush and the National Schools of Wood Carving and Weaving. Feel the warm welcome of Māori  guides from the moment you walk into Te Puia past the twelve monumental carvings –  Te Heketanga a Rangi reaching skywards.

Explore Te Puia’s unique Whakarewarewa geothermal valley home to the world famous Pohutu Geyser, which erupts up to twenty times a day, and up to thirty metres high into the air. Explore the boiling mud pools and the boiling waters which are still used to cook in. The tradition of guiding in the Whakarewarewa geothermal valley extends for generations.

Discover the distinctive flavours and unique preparation of our traditionally cooked Māori hangi. This experience includes an extended tour of Te Puia, an interactive weaving experience, plus a traditionally cooked steam box lunch to enjoy in front of Pohutu Geyser. In an authentic Hangi make your choice from a selection of prepared food including: chicken, corn, kumara, pumpkin, potato, cabbage, watercress, and gourmet bread stuffing. Once you have placed your favourite delicacies inside the hangi basket, you are ready to head to the constantly active steam vent opening used to cook your kai (food) the authentic way. Following your guided tour and hands-on weaving experience, you will return to Pohutu Geyser to enjoy your lunchtime feast in front of the southern hemisphere’s largest active geyser.

Included

  • Fully guided return transfers from Auckland
  • Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland CBD
  • Complimentary refreshments and water on board
  • A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour
  • Luxurious temperature controlled transportation in a minibus
  • Admission to full day pass at Te Puia with steamed lunch box
  • Rotorua city highlights – Government gardens, thermal springs & Polynesian spa.

Excluded

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Access to Wi-Fi on board for a small surcharge

Know before you go

  • This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
  • You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
  • Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, , Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, camera & essential personal items.
  • Special dietary requirements catered for upon request, please advise at the time of booking. Preferences and requests cannot be guaranteed. Special requests are subject to availability.
  • Licensed bar available, drinks available for purchase at additional cost.

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