TE-PUIA Geothermal Park, Maori Arts & Crafts, Rotorua - Budget - Day Tour from Auckland

Pickups for tours from hotels or accommodations in and around Auckland CBD happens at 6:00 AM. Kindly share the address and contact details while booking the tour.

Guests should be ready 15 minutes prior to the departure. Small hand carry bags are allowed and can be stowed in the car boot.

Driver and the tourists will be notified well in advance and they should be able to connect via phone and internet.

TRAVEL TIME: Auckland to Tirau

1 hr 53 min (170.1 km) via SH 1

Nestled in the heart of the Waikato region, Tirau offers a charming and refreshing pitstop during your journey. Known for its distinctive corrugated iron sculptures and vibrant, small-town atmosphere, Tirau provides an inviting break where travelers can relax and rejuvenate.

Overview of the Tirau Experience:

Take a 15-minute break in Tirau, a picturesque town renowned for its quirky artwork and friendly local community. This brief stop allows travelers to stretch their legs, use the clean restroom facilities, and enjoy a coffee or light refreshment at one of the local cafés. The town's iconic corrugated iron buildings, shaped like a dog and sheep, add a unique touch to the visit, providing great photo opportunities and a taste of Tirau’s creative spirit. Explore the charming shops and boutiques lining the main street, offering an array of local crafts, souvenirs, and treats. With its welcoming ambiance and artistic flair, Tirau makes for a delightful and memorable break on your journey.

Travel Time: Tirau to Te Puia, Rotorua - 50mins (55kms) Via SH5

Guided Tour of Te-Puia Maori Arts and Crafts

Begin your adventure with a guided tour of Te-Puia's Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Here, you'll witness skilled artisans at work, creating intricate wood carvings, weaving traditional textiles, and crafting exquisite Maori artifacts. Learn about the significance of these art forms in Maori culture and their role in preserving the heritage for future generations. Watch carvers and weavers demonstrate their skills and hear guides share stories passed down from their ancestors. Te-Puia’s wānanga (school) is a lighthouse for indigenous culture worldwide, showcasing the work of internationally recognized artists.

Geothermal Valley Exploration

Venture into the awe-inspiring geothermal valley, where nature's raw power is on full display. Marvel at the dramatic geysers, including the famous Pohutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, which erupts up to 30 meters high. Observe the bubbling mud pools and steaming hot springs, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape. The geothermal activity in this region is a testament to the dynamic forces beneath the Earth's crust.

Kiwi Conservation Centre Visit

Conclude your tour with a visit to the brand-new Kiwi Conservation Centre, an essential part of New Zealand's efforts to protect its iconic and endangered national bird. Get an up-close view of these nocturnal creatures in a specially designed habitat that mimics their natural environment. Learn about the conservation initiatives aimed at ensuring the survival of the kiwi and the challenges they face in the wild.

TE RĀ GUIDED EXPERIENCE

Te-Puia has welcomed manuhiri (visitors) from all over the world for generations to explore the magic hidden within Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley. This guided experience includes:

Coming face to face with the biggest, naturally active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, Pōhutu Geyser.

An up-close experience with the New Zealand Kiwi at the Kiwi Conservation Centre.

Watching exploding mud pools throughout the valley.

Viewing beautifully crafted Māori-made artwork and sculptures.

The Te Rā Guided Experience has a duration of 90 minutes. Please arrive 15 minutes before your experience time. 

You can also upgrade to the Te Ra Haka Combo for an enhanced experience.

Highlights

Maori Arts and Crafts: Engage with traditional Maori culture through live demonstrations of wood carving, weaving, and other crafts.

Pohutu Geyser: Witness the spectacular eruptions of New Zealand's largest active geyser.

Geothermal Activity: Explore a landscape shaped by geothermal forces, including boiling mud pools and steaming vents.

Kiwi Conservation: Gain insight into the efforts to protect and preserve New Zealand's iconic kiwi bird.

Te Rā Guided Experience: Enjoy a comprehensive 90-minute tour, experiencing the cultural and natural wonders of Te-Puia.

Conclusion

The Te-Puia tour offers an immersive experience that combines cultural enrichment with the natural beauty of Rotorua's geothermal wonders. Whether you're fascinated by Maori traditions or intrigued by the Earth's geothermal activity, this tour promises an unforgettable and educational adventure.

TRAVEL TIME: 15 mins

Lunch break : 1 hour

(At your own expenses) Lunch in Rotorua has a very wider choice for your appetite. We highly recommend to book or reserve a table at your preferred restaurant well in before.

TRAVEL : 

Rotorua City to Redwood Forest

12 min (7.2 km) via Malfroy Rd

ATTRACTION EXPEREINCE TIME: 30mins

Overview of the Walking Experience:

Begin your journey into the Redwood Forest with a guided tour designed to showcase the forest’s majestic beauty and ecological significance. As you stroll along well-maintained paths under the canopy of these towering trees, you’ll marvel at their sheer size and the peaceful ambiance they create. The one-hour experience allows you to connect with nature as you breathe in the crisp, fresh air and listen to the soothing sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves.

Highlights:

• Giant Redwoods: Encounter some of the tallest trees on the planet, with some reaching heights of over 70 meters. These ancient redwoods create a cathedral-like atmosphere that is both awe-inspiring and tranquil.
• Native Flora and Fauna: Explore the diverse ecosystem of the forest, which includes native New Zealand plants and the potential to spot native bird species such as tui and kererū.
• Educational Insights: Learn about the history and conservation efforts of the Redwood Forest, gaining insight into its cultural significance to the local Maori people and its role in environmental sustainability.
• Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photographs of the majestic redwoods, scenic viewpoints, and the play of light filtering through the forest canopy.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Enjoy a moment of tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, surrounded by nature's beauty and the therapeutic benefits of being among ancient trees.

TRAVEL : 

Rotorua to Mercer

2 hrs  (170 km) via SH 5 & 1

Take a refreshing 15 minutes break at Mercer to enjoy the serene beauty of the Waikato River. This picturesque stop offers stunning views of New Zealand's longest river, providing a perfect spot to stretch your legs and soak in the natural surroundings. Capture the scenic landscapes, breathe in the fresh air, and rejuvenate before continuing your journey.

TRAVEL TIME:

Mercer to Auckland CBD

1 hr 8 min (58.6 km) via SH 1

After an exciting day of exploration and adventure, guests will be dropped off at their respective hotel in Auckland CBD approximately at 6 PM. Our courteous tour driver guide  will ensure a smooth conclusion to your journey, ensuring you disembark safely at your hotel's entrance or a nearby designated drop-off point.