Te Puia & Hells Gate incl. Mud Spa Experience Private Tour
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Te Puia & Hells Gate incl. Mud Spa Experience Private Tour

Active
(8 reviews)
13h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this comfortable private day tour from Auckland, experience a land where myth and legend come to life, where the earth boils, mud heals, and steam disappears into the clouds above. Soak in hot steam, marvel at boiling mud pools and watch a geyser erupt in spectacular fashion at one of New Zealand’s most impressive geothermal wonderlands. This land has the power to heal and excite anyone who meets it, just as it’s done for centuries. Come and discover New Zealand’s most unique geothermal experience at Wai-O-Tapu thermal wonderland and Hell’s Gate mud spa. Your body and soul will feel revitalised after this soothing experience.

Available options

Te Puia & Hells Gate incl. Mud Spa Experience Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Complimentary High-Speed Internet on-board the minibus
Complimentary refreshments and water on board
Fully guided private return transfers from Auckland
Chance to see the towering water jets of Pōhutu Geyser.
Luxurious temperature controlled transportation in a minibus
Admission to Hell's Gate mud pools and sulphur spas
All Fees and Taxes
Enjoy a scenic drive through lush countryside with opportunity for photo stops.
Air-conditioned vehicle
Traditional weaving tutorial to craft your own masterpiece.
Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland
Admission to traditional Māori cultural performance.
Promote good skin health and overall, well-being
Up-close look at the valley's immense bubbling mud pools.
Spot the iconic New Zealand kiwi bird at the nocturnal house.
Experience the magical qualities of the nutrient rich mud pool at Hell’s Gate
Insights into Māori heritage & historical uses of the land.
WiFi on board
Relax and rejuvenate yourself in the sulphur spa and cool plunge pool
A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour
Hangi buffet lunch at Te Puia Geothermal Valley.
Admission to guided tour and hangi buffet lunch at Te Puia Geothermal Valley.
Soak up stunning views over the amazing geothermal reserve
Bathe in world-famous mud baths, soak in the sulphur spas & cool plunge pool

Detailed itinerary

1

We pickup travellers from most locations in the Auckland CBD location. If your pickup location is not available on the list, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our very best to accommodate your request.

2

The Bombay Hills are a range of hills to the south of Auckland, New Zealand. Though only a small and seemingly insignificant range of hills, they lie at the southern boundary of the Auckland region, and serve as a divide between Auckland and the Waikato region. directly named after the ship Bombay, The ship itself was named after the Indian city of Bombay (now Mumbai). Bombay Means: a breed of black short-haired medium-sized cat.

3

We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Waikato region.

4

We will also pass through the unique town of Tirau (the corrugated iron sculpture capital of the world) known for its antique shops and animal-shaped corrugated iron buildings.

5
Stop 5

Situated five minutes from central Rotorua, Te Puia is an iconic destination for visitors featuring the world famous Pōhutu geyser, Māori cultural performances, live Kiwi birds, boiling mud pools, native bush and the national school of wood carving and weaving. Feel the warm welcome of Māori guides from the moment you walk in. Explore the unique Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, home to the world famous Pōhutu Geyser, which erupts up to twenty times a day, and up to thirty metres high into the air. Explore the boiling mud pools and the boiling waters which are still used to cook in. Discover the distinctive flavours and unique preparation of our traditionally cooked Māori hangi. This experience includes an extended tour of Te Puia, an interactive weaving experience, plus a traditional Māori Hangi buffet lunch infused with indigenous flavours and a Māori concert.

6
Stop 6

Within a short drive we move to our second destination where you will have a devilishly good time at Hell’s Gate mud bath and sulphur spas. Get down and dirty in a mud bath or unwind in a Sulphur spa overlooking a spectacular geothermal landscape, before cooling off in a beautiful spring-fed waterfall and plunge pool. Featuring hot-water lakes, New Zealand’s largest mud volcano and the largest hot water waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere, the Hells Gate Valley is the place to be for an indulgent experience that is almost sinful. Being the only geothermal mud bath in New Zealand, Hell’s Gate spa is a truly therapeutic experience. The healing properties of the geothermal mud and sulphur mineral water have been used by local Māori for over 800 years. You can slather yourself in the warm geothermal mud before jumping in the sulphur pool, with minerals that help to clear and detoxify. This amazing landscape will captivate your imagination as it bubbles with heat and history.

7

After an exhilarating fun-filled adventure experience at Rotorua, it is now time to head back to Auckland to conclude your evening and drop-off at your hotel in Auckland. We can also drop you at your accommodation in Rotorua if you are staying locally in the region.

What's not included

Breakfast
Dinner

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0
1 reviews
5★
0
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, sun protection, jacket/warm layer, bring a camera & any essential personal items.
This is a guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.
You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
If the guest has had or is suffering from any of the following medical conditions, we strongly advise that they seek advice from their doctor prior to using the geothermal pools.
The mud baths are suitable for children over the age of 2.5 years, whereas the Sulphur spas are suitable for children over the age of 6 months.
All infants must wear bathing suits or disposable nappies whilst bathing.
Please remove all jewellery before entering the pools as Hell’s Gate accepts no responsibility for tarnished jewellery.
For the bathing experience, guests can choose to bring their own bathing attire and towels or hire these items from Hell’s Gate at a small cost.
Tours are suitable for people of all ages and average fitness. Our scenic walks are short and optional. Please let our guide know at check in if you have any fitness concerns.
The mud bath experience is controlled to a maximum of 20 minutes on the basis of safety.
Hell’s Gate have swimwear for both males and females for sale, subject to availability.
Being an active geothermal area with uneven terrain, sturdy footwear is recommended. Jandals, sandals, flip-flops or high heeled shoes are not suitable.
Easy and good fitness level required.
It is important that children (as well as adults) drink water while bathing in order to keep hydrated.
If the guest has had or is suffering from any of the following medical conditions, we strongly advise that they seek advice from their doctor prior to using the geothermal pools. The list of medical conditions below is not an exhausted list but serves to highlight some of the main medical conditions where the geothermal pools may not be advised: Pregnancy, Low or High Blood Pressure, Mobility Problems, Active or Under Active Thyroid, Verruca/ Warts, Heart Conditions, Epilepsy, Skin diseases/disorders, Diabetes, Metal Pins/ Plates, Claustrophobia, Ear Infections, Cancer, Recent Surgery, or Sulphur Allergies
Lengthy immersion in the hot pools may cause dehydration and fainting. Please remain hydrated at all time by drinking the water available in the spa facilities and inform staff immediately if any discomfort is felt. When exiting the pool, take care and use the handrails provided
Both children and adults need to be comfortable with the heat, and Hell’s Gate recommends taking regular breaks to ensure overheating does not occur
Guests are advised to shower before entering the pools in order to remove any makeup, sunscreen or other products applied to the skin as we cannot confirm what is in each product and therefore if a reaction with the Sulphur will occur.
It is important that children (as well as adults) drink water while bathing in order to keep hydrated.

About Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, known for its stunning harbor, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant multicultural scene. With over 50 trails and 22 islands, it's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Auckland Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is Auckland's tallest structure, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Architecture 1-2 hours NZD 39 for observation deck, NZD 189 for SkyJump

Auckland War Memorial Museum

This museum offers a comprehensive look at New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours NZD 25 for adults, free for children under 15

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.

Nature Full day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Adventure Half day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals and offers educational programs and conservation efforts.

Family 2-3 hours NZD 30 for adults, NZD 18 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hāngī

A traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Meats and vegetables are cooked slowly in the earth oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor.

Dinner Contains meat, can be vegetarian if requested

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Gluten-free, can be made vegan

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand takeaway food, featuring fresh fish (usually snapper or tarakihi) and chips, often served with tartare sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, can be gluten-free if requested

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Skydiving Beach activities Spa treatments Wine tasting Maori cultural performances Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events. It's perfect for beach activities and hiking.

20-25°C 68-77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English, Maori
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Auckland is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air
  • Auckland Airport • 21 km south of the city center
By train

Auckland Railway Station

By bus

Auckland Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Auckland. The network includes local, frequent, and express services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Ponsonby Devonport Mission Bay

Day trips

Waiheke Island
35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Full day

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Rangitoto Island
25 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Half day

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Hobbiton Movie Set
2.5 hours by car from Auckland • Full day

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist attraction featuring the filming locations from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.

Festivals

Auckland Arts Festival • March Auckland Diwali Festival • October/November Auckland Pride Festival • February

Pro tips

  • Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performances.
  • Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day trip, and book a wine tour in advance to ensure availability.
  • Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting the La Cigale French Market or the Auckland Night Markets.
  • Hike up to the summit of Rangitoto Island for stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
  • Use the AT HOP card for easy and discounted public transport fares.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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