easy
12 hours
Open to all fitness levels, moderate walking involved
Discover Rotorua's geothermal wonders with a day at Hell's Gate. Experience bubbling mud pools, mineral terraces, and relaxing mud baths—all in one unforgettable trip from Auckland.
For all ages • 12 Hours • Budget • SMALL GROUP DAY TOUR FROM AUCKLAND
Embark on a captivating 12-hour adventure from Auckland to Rotorua, featuring a scenic drive through the Waikato region. Experience the unique geothermal wonders of Hell's Gate, including bubbling mud pools and rejuvenating mud baths. Enjoy charming Tirau, breathtaking views, and a smooth return, making this trip unforgettable.
12 hours
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 at least 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup 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.
Continue an hour drive to reach Rotorua, and we will picking and dropping off other tourists who have booked for other attractions in and around Rotorua.
You will be boarding a shuttle bus service provided by Hell's Gate at 9:50am at iSite Rotorua and will be heading to Hell's gate geothermal experience.
Next, you will visit Hell's Gate Geothermal Park: Experience the dramatic geothermal landscapes, including a self-guided walk through bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and sulphur lakes. Enjoy a rejuvenating mud bath or sulphur spa. The mud bath experience is limited 20 minutes for health and safety reasons. Please have your lunch at the Hell's gate before boarding the shuttle bus at 1:30pm
A shuttle bus will drop you at iSite Rotorua city. You will be joining the other tourists again, and 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 Hotels in the Airport or Auckland CBD.
Comfy shoes, water, weather jacket, caps, umbrellas, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimsuits, towels, and a good attitude!
Sturdy shoes are recommended for walking on uneven geothermal terrain.
Stay hydrated and shield yourself from sun exposure during outdoor portions of the trip.
Reserve your mud bath and massage in advance to ensure availability.
Expect strong mineral smells and steam—dress accordingly.
Hell's Gate has been a site of geothermal activity for thousands of years, integral to Maori cultural practices and local legends about fiery gods.
Efforts emphasize sustainable tourism practices, including thermal water management and habitat preservation to sustain the geothermal landscape.
Necessary for walking on geothermal trails and uneven surfaces.
Protect yourself from UV rays during outdoor activities.
Needed for mud baths and spa treatments.
Stay hydrated throughout the trip.