Ultimate Day Out Hiking & Adventure with Totally Tarawera
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should possess a moderate level of fitness capable of sustained walking over uneven terrain.
Overview
Combine a scenic boat ride, a vibrant hike to Tarawera Falls, and a soak in geothermal hot springs on this full-day adventure near Rotorua. Discover why Totally Tarawera’s Ultimate Day Out stands apart in New Zealand’s outdoor scene.
Ultimate Day Out
Explore the incredible Tarawera Falls & Hot Water Beach in one trip!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
The Ultimate Day Out is a brilliant full-day excursion for the total outdoors person
Duration
6 Hours
Departure times
9:00am from Kariri Point Reserve/Boat Shed Bay, Lake Tarawera
About
BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL
Enjoy a full day outing combining the Tarawera Falls Walk, an easy moderate walk which will take approximately 3.5 hours with a trip to Hot Water Beach and the natural bush hot pool for a warm soak.
The Water Taxi will pick you up at 1:00pm from The Tarawera Outlet Jetty. Start your day with a 35 minute boat trip across Lake Tarawera to Tapahoro/The Tarawera Outlet. The drop off point you allow 3.5 hours to walk to the Falls and return to the start. The boat will return for you at 1:30pm to take you to the Hot Water Beach and Hot Pool for a warm soak in the natural geothermal waters. This Full Day Excursion departs The Landing, Lake Tarawera at 9:00am and returns you to Kariri point Reserve by 3:30pm.
This product is ideal for Friends, Family, Couples, VIP/Luxury tours, FIT Groups, Guided-semi guided, Customised Personalised Tours, Special interest, Eco tourism.
TIMING: 9:00am Depart Kariri Point Reserve/Boat Shed Bay, Lake Tarawera. 9:25am Arrive Tapahoro/Tarawera Outlet 3.5hr walk to the Tarawera Falls return to Tapahoro/Tarawera Outlet Jetty. 1:30pm Depart Tapahoro/Tarawera Outlet 2:00pm Arrive Hot Water Beach for short stop to view the geothermal 2:10pm Depart Hot Water Beach 2:15pm Arrive Wairua Stream – Natural Hot Pool in the bush. 3:00pm Depart Wairua Stream for Kariri point Reserve, Lake Tarawera. 3:30pm Arrive and disembark and go to your vehicle at Kariri Point Reserve
What to Bring
- Good walking shoes (Tramping boots not required)
- Drinking water
- Lunch
- Camera
- Take your swimming costume and a towel in the summer for a swim in the cool lake or a soak in the hot pool at designated spots.
- Sunscreen
Travel is in our all-weather boat.
Adventure Tips
Bring sturdy walking shoes
Consider durable, comfortable footwear suitable for uneven terrain and volcanic rock underfoot.
Book in advance
Reservations are required to secure your spot on this popular full-day experience.
Pack swimwear and towel
Be prepared for a relaxing soak in natural hot springs, especially during warmer months.
Carry sufficient water and snacks
The 3.5-hour hike and boat transfers require hydration and energy throughout the day.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- New Zealand fantail (pīwakawaka)
- Kākā parrot
History
The area’s volcanic landscape was reshaped dramatically by the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption, which also created the falls.
Conservation
Totally Tarawera promotes eco-tourism with a focus on minimizing environmental impact along Lake Tarawera and its trails.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rotorua
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Walking shoes
Support and traction for varied trail surfaces and volcanic rock.
Swimwear and towel
For enjoying the natural hot pools and a refreshing lake swim.
summer specific
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against intense UV exposure.
summer specific
Water bottle
Hydration is critical during the long hike and boat transfers.