Departing Tauranga for Rotorua, we pass through the Te Puke region, the home of the New Zealand Kiwifruit with chance to see the many orchards growing this iconic New Zealand fruit.
Our route then continues through farmland, native bush and forested areas, passing by Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotorua before arriving at Whakarewarewa - Te Puia. Te Puia, the home of the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and the location of the famous Pohutu geyser. We visit the carving school and see craftsman fashion traditional wood carvings, then move on to watch Maori women demonstrate flax weaving.
A short walk through the geothermal valley of Whakarewarewa to view the mud pools, the famous Pohutu geyser and hot pools that make Te Puia unique. See New Zealand's iconic flightless bird, the Kiwi in a purpose built kiwi-house. Explore the recreated traditional Maori fortified village. A Maori Cultural Performance will be given on the Marae, in one of the few fully carved meeting houses in New Zealand, a place of special spiritual significance to Maori. Here you will see the traditional songs, dances and demonstrations of fighting skills [including the Haka] performed.
There is time at Te Puia to enjoy a light lunch at their cafe.[at your own cost]. After lunch we drive through Rotorua City to the Skyline Skyride, one of the top most popular destinations in Rotorua. Your tour cost includes the Gondola up to the top station for access to some great activities, such as the Luge runs down the mountain, the Big Swoop and the new Zoom Zip Line. There is a cafe where parents can enjoy some refreshments while watching the kids have fun on the Luge runs. Any additional activities at Skyline Skyride, can be purchased on the day.
The tour then departs Rotorua for the return to Tauranga. On the way we tour through Mount Maunganui to view its famous ocean beaches, harbour and the iconic Mount Maunganui, an extinct volcanic core, which gives the area its name.
Highlights:
- Blue Baths & Rachel's Pool
- Geysers and Mudpools
- Government gardens & Bath House
- Kiwi fruit orchards
- Maori cultural performance
- New Zealand Kiwi bird
- Rotorua City & Lake
- Skyline Skyride
Included:
- Air-conditioned Transport
- Collection and drop off from the ship
- Entry to Te Puia and Maori Concert
- Experienced private guide
- The Skyline Skyride Gondola ticket
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