Spend a day on Lake Rotoiti and at Rotorua’s Hell’s Gate: a boat cruise that combines glowworm caves, tree-jumping, geothermal walks and world-famous mud baths. This guided experience pairs natural history, Māori cultural insights and hands-on geothermal bathing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the launch into air warmed by steam and summer lake spray—Pohutukawa limbs lean over the water as the boat slips into a mirror-finish inlet. The captain eases alongside a pumice beach where a natural hot stream threads into the lake; behind you, forested ridges breathe warm vapour that clings to the surface like a moving shawl.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standard mobility for boarding small launches and short walks on uneven geothermal tracks.
Wildlife
History
Local iwi have used the geothermal resources of Tikitere (Hell’s Gate) for healing for more than 800 years; many features are tied to Māori stories about Rūaumoko and the living landscape.
Conservation
Stay on marked paths, avoid disturbing thermal features, and rinse off mud in designated areas; use biodegradable products when possible to protect mineral-rich waters and cultural sites.
Reserve your spot on the Tauranga Port - Pure Cruise Rotoiti Lake, Glowworms & Hells Gate today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring swimwear and a dry change
You’ll likely swim in waist-deep cave water and bathe in mud; pack a quick-dry change of clothes and a towel for comfort after the boat and spa stops.
Protect electronics
Steam, spray and sulphur can damage phones—use a waterproof pouch or leave devices on the boat while ashore.
Obey geothermal signage
Stay on marked paths at Hell’s Gate and follow guides to avoid fragile thermal features and unstable ground.
Time your glowworm visit
Glowworm viewing is best in low light—ask about the timing of cave visits and consider later departures for darker conditions in the caves.
Swimwear
Needed for cave swimming, lake jumps, and the Hell’s Gate mud baths.
summer
Water shoes or sturdy sandals
Good grip for wet rocks, pumice beaches and stepping off the launch.
Light waterproof jacket
Useful for wind, spray or unexpected showers while on the lake.
spring
Towel and dry change of clothes
You’ll want dry layers for the return boat ride and warmth after bathing.