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Tauranga Shore Excursion: Private Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and Whakarewarewa Maori Cultural Village
1 day
Private
Instant confirmation
About this activity
After your private guide picks you up from the dock in Tauranga, enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the Wai-O-Tapu geothermal region, home to some of New Zealand's most spectacular geothermal landmarks.
Before the eruption of the Tarawera Volcano in 1886, Wai-O-Tapu was famous for a natural feature known as the Pink and White Terraces. The eruption destroyed the terraces and created today’s landscape of steaming hot springs, bubbling geysers and pools of vibrant turquoise, orange, gold and olive-green water.
Take in the geothermal park on a walking tour with your guide, who shows you around Wai-O-Tapu on your choice of easy walks that last anywhere from 30 to 75 minutes. You might catch the daily eruption of the Lady Knox geyser and admire the colorful Champagne Pool and Artist’s Palette.
Next up, visit Whakarewarewa, an authentic Maori village that showcases the traditions of the Tuhourangi/Ngati Wahiao people. Take a tour of the village with a local Maori guide who shares the history and culture of the local people. See key sites in the village, hear stories about the geothermal environment, and learn how the villagers have harnessed the energy of the hot springs and steam vents for cooking and bathing. You may even see the Pohutu Geyser in action, as the 100-foot (30-meter) geyser erupts up to 20 times a day.
You'll have plenty of time for photo ops and a lunch break (own expense) during your shore excursion. At the end of a fascinating day out, enjoy the scenery around Lake Rotorua as your guide returns you to the port in Tauranga.
Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Tauranga port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.
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Before the eruption of the Tarawera Volcano in 1886, Wai-O-Tapu was famous for a natural feature known as the Pink and White Terraces. The eruption destroyed the terraces and created today’s landscape of steaming hot springs, bubbling geysers and pools of vibrant turquoise, orange, gold and olive-green water.
Take in the geothermal park on a walking tour with your guide, who shows you around Wai-O-Tapu on your choice of easy walks that last anywhere from 30 to 75 minutes. You might catch the daily eruption of the Lady Knox geyser and admire the colorful Champagne Pool and Artist’s Palette.
Next up, visit Whakarewarewa, an authentic Maori village that showcases the traditions of the Tuhourangi/Ngati Wahiao people. Take a tour of the village with a local Maori guide who shares the history and culture of the local people. See key sites in the village, hear stories about the geothermal environment, and learn how the villagers have harnessed the energy of the hot springs and steam vents for cooking and bathing. You may even see the Pohutu Geyser in action, as the 100-foot (30-meter) geyser erupts up to 20 times a day.
You'll have plenty of time for photo ops and a lunch break (own expense) during your shore excursion. At the end of a fascinating day out, enjoy the scenery around Lake Rotorua as your guide returns you to the port in Tauranga.
Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Tauranga port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.
Included
- Port pickup and drop-off
- Driver/guide
- Covered by Viator's worry-free policy: guaranteed on-time return to your ship
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
Additional
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not suitable for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
- Please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes
- Please bring sun protection and a light jacket for cooler weather
- Pricing is per group
- Max 5 per group
Features
Tourism
100%
Cultural
65%
Aquatic
40%
Reviews
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Since our visit to New Zealand was Although our visit to New Zealand was mostly via cruise ship, we wanted to see as much as possible at each port of call. Our party of four was extremely fortunate to have Phillip as our guide. We had plenty of time to walk the paths at Wai-O-Tapu, marveling at the amazing colors. The second thermal region in Rotorua was not as large or dramatic but was interesting since it was in a small functioning Maori village. We saw several examples of thermal pools or heat being used for cooking. The Maori cultural performance was OK but not great. I think the usual performers were at a competition in Auckland so I commend those who stepped in. The best part of our tour was Phillip who is extremely knowledgeable and kept up educational commentary as we drove from place to place. He was able to answer all of our questions whether on vegetation, history or culture. I would definitely recommend this tour for those who want to see as much as possible in one day.