Te Puia Geothermal Park + Haka - Maori Cultural Experience + Kiwi Conservation Center

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 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.

Next, you will visit Te Puia, Rotorua Geothermal Park. Experience a day of excitement, culture, kai, and connection at Te Puia, where generations of manuhiri (visitors) from around the world have explored the hidden magic of the Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley.

Encounter the Pōhutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, and immerse yourself in the Kiwi Conservation Centre, where you’ll get up close with New Zealand’s iconic kiwi bird. As you wander the valley, witness the explosive energy of boiling mud pools and admire the intricate Māori artwork and sculptures that adorn the landscape.

At the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, skilled carvers and weavers showcase traditional Māori techniques, while guides share captivating stories handed down from their ancestors. Te Puia is proud to open the doors of its wānanga (school), a beacon of indigenous culture, and showcase the talents of world-renowned Māori artists.

Extend the guided tour with a Maori cultural performance in the stunningly carved Te Aronui a Rua meeting house. This exhilarating performance features a traditional Pōhiri (Māori welcome), Waiata (song), Mōteatea (chant), Poi, and the powerful Haka.

Please note that all experiences are now guided and last for 90 minutes. Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time to fully enjoy Rotorua's world-class cultural and geothermal experience.

Kindly have your lunch (at your own expenses) inside Te Puia cafe or restaurant. Picking up of tourists at 1:30pm at Te Puia.

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.

What to bring

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