Adventure Collective
Explore Rotorua’s Lakes on a Unique Amphibious WWII Duck Tour - Rotorua

Explore Rotorua’s Lakes on a Unique Amphibious WWII Duck Tour

Aucklandeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

5–6 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking required and vehicle-based touring

Overview

Discover Rotorua’s stunning lakes from a WWII amphibious vehicle. This one-of-a-kind Duck Tour blends thrilling adventure with rich cultural and geothermal history in a single unforgettable day.

Auckland, Auckland

Rotorua Duck Tour - Amphibious Sight Seeing - Lake Tikitapu and Lake Ōkāreka

For all ages • 12 Hours • Budget • SMALL GROUP DAY TOUR FROM AUCKLAND

Sightseeing Tour

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About This Adventure

Embark on a thrilling Rotorua Duck Tour, riding in a WWII landing craft that splashes between land and water at stunning lakes. Experience breathtaking scenery, geothermal wonders, and rich history, all while enjoying engaging commentary. This unique adventure promises unforgettable moments for all ages, blending fun, nature, and culture seamlessly.

Rotorua Duck Tour, Amphibious Sight Seeing - Lake Tikitapu and Lake Ōkāreka

Duration

12 hours

ABOUT

Start your adventure with a convenient hotel pickup at Auckland CBD between 5:45 AM to 6:00 AM or Auckland Airport Hotels at 6:15 to 6:30am. Our friendly drivers, easily identifiable with clearly marked vehicles as ENZOY TOURS, will ensure you begin your day smoothly. Please be ready at the designated pickup point 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

After 2 hours of Waikato region scenic drive, arrive at your first stop in the charming town of Tirau, nestled in the heart of the Waikato region. Known for its distinctive corrugated iron sculptures and vibrant small-town atmosphere, Tirau provides a delightful 15-minute break. Stretch your legs, use the clean restroom facilities, and savor a coffee or light refreshment at a local café. The town’s iconic dog and sheep-shaped buildings offer great photo opportunities and a taste of Tirau’s creative spirit.

On the way to Rotorua Duck Tour, we will be picking up and dropping off our lovely fellow tourists at Rotorua who have booked for other attractions.

Around 9:30am you will get dropped at the Rotorua Duck Tour office, you will have approximately 1 hour to wander around the City area, before boarding on the Duck Tour at 10:40am. Please be there 20 minutes before for the safety briefing.

Rotorua City & Lakes Tour

Experience the thrill of riding in New Zealand’s only authentic WWII landing craft as you explore the stunning scenery of Rotorua. This exciting tour is sure to be a highlight of your time in the city!

Enjoy two exciting splashdowns, transitioning from land to water at Lake Tikitapu and Lake Ōkāreka. As you travel through Rotorua, you'll pass award-winning gardens and geothermal hotspots like Sulphur Point, and admire some of Rotorua’s most iconic landmarks.

The journey continues through a lush native New Zealand forest en route to the lakes, where you'll also get a glimpse of beautiful million-dollar homes around Lake Ōkāreka and travel through the Ōkāreka Bird Sanctuary. Along the way, you’ll learn about the incredible WWII history of the Duck boat, all while enjoying lively and informative commentary that engages visitors of all ages.

This tour offers a perfect blend of fun, history, and stunning scenery, making it ideal for both young and old. The Duck’s unique ability to traverse both land and water offers a one-of-a-kind perspective on Rotorua’s cityscape and its picturesque lakes. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience!

After lunch, we will be doing an hour driving highlights tour of Rotorua, while we pickup our lovely co-tourists from other attractions and drop off anyone who is checking in to Rotorua Hotels.

On your return journey, enjoy the serene beauty of the Waikato River. This picturesque stop offers stunning views, perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the natural surroundings.

Conclude your exciting day of exploration with a drop-off at your hotel in Auckland CBD around 6 PM. Our courteous tour driver will ensure a smooth end to your journey, ensuring you disembark safely at Auckland Airport hotel or Auckland CBD,

WHAT TO BRING

Comfy shoes, water, weather jacket, caps, umbrellas, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a good attitude!

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Boarding

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth check-in and boarding process.

Wear Comfortable Footwear

The tour involves some walking and boarding a large amphibious vehicle, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are recommended.

Bring a Light Rain Jacket

Rotorua weather can be changeable; a lightweight rain jacket will keep you comfortable during outdoor sections.

Charge Your Camera or Phone

You'll want to capture stunning lake vistas and unique amphibious vehicle moments, so ensure your devices are fully charged.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Native tui birds with their distinctive calls
  • Occasional sightings of wild brown trout in clear lake waters

History

Rotorua's lakes were formed by volcanic caldera events thousands of years ago, central to Maori legends about the land’s fiery origins.

Conservation

Local operators are dedicated to preserving lake water quality and native vegetation by restricting waste and following eco-tourism best practices.

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Adventure Hotspots in Rotorua

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sun Hat

Essential

Protect yourself from strong New Zealand sun during open-air sections of the tour.

summer specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated throughout the 12-hour tour, especially in warmer months.

Camera or Smartphone

Essential

Capture unique views from land and water.

Light Rain Jacket

Essential

Prepare for sudden weather changes common in Rotorua.

spring specific