Rotorua Living & Buried Village Experience Private Tour Auckland
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Rotorua Living & Buried Village Experience Private Tour Auckland

Active
13h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience an authentic cultural encounter that is rich in history and traditions passed on from generation to generation during this full-day private tour to Rotorua from Auckland, set in a landscape where your senses will come alive. Immerse yourself in our unique Māori culture in the Whakarewarewa village on a guided tour through our real Living Māori Village including a Hangi Pie Meal. Set amongst a highly active landscape erupting with geothermal activity, to violent and unexpected volcanic eruption of Mt. Tarawera in 1886 was New Zealand's greatest natural disasters. The Buried Village of Te Wairoa is one of New Zealand’s most visited archaeological sites where the stories of Mt. Tarawera volcanic eruption come to life and share the tales of the 8th Wonder of the World, the Pink and White Terraces.

Available options

Rotorua Living & Buried Village Experience Private Tour Auckland

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
Access to Te Wairoa Trail and waterfalls
Discover the biggest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, the 30m high Pōhutu geyser.
Luxurious temperature controlled transportation in a minibus
Be entertained by an enriching Māori cultural performance by way of a song and dance.
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Admission to the self-guided walk at the Buried Village of Te Wairoa
Explore the archaeological sites which reveal the devastation
View the extensive collection of excavated objects from the 1800’s
Hangi Pie Meal at Whakarewarewa Māori Living Village
Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland
View the fully carved ancestral meeting house, the great significance in history
Admission to 1-hour guided tour at Whakarewarewa Māori Living Village
WiFi on board
Take the beautiful waterfall trail which showcases the stunning Te Wairoa falls
A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour
Encounter the award-winning Museum of Te Wairoa exhibition
Walk through boiling mud-pools, steam vents and bubbling pools
Admission to Māori Cultural Performance at Whakarewarewa Māori Living Village

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

Experience an authentic cultural encounter that is rich in traditions passed on from generation to generation, set in a landscape where your senses will come alive. The Living village is a popular tourism destination that incorporates the magnificence of the geothermal landscape and the unique experience of a traditional Maori village, a place of natural wonder and spiritual significance. 500 hot springs and 65 geyser vents are set among the distinctly colourful sinter terraces & pools that make up the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley.

Discover the wonders of Mother Nature & learn how we have come to live in harmony within this unique environment. The guided tours are entertaining & informative with a focus on giving everyone an understanding of the Maori history, culture & how the villagers live in the challenging Whakarewarewa Geothermal field and the significance of protecting it for future generations. Experience our Maori Cultural Performances entertaining you through song and dance.

6
Stop 6

From an enriching memories of the living village we move on to the haunting echoes of the past. New Zealand’s most visited archaeological site where stories Tarawera volcanic Eruption come to life. Visit and learn how Māori and early settlers lived and worked together, guiding visitors to see the world famous Pink and White Terraces. Enjoy a leisurely walk through our 12-acre grounds and explore the sites that have been excavated from the village. Hear the stories of Tarawera in our award-winning museum. Visit the mesmerizing natural Te Wairoa (Wairere Falls), plunging to the valley along our Waterfall Trails. Discover the unique geology of the Rotorua region and how the eruption changed and shaped the area forever. Meet the unique personalities that shaped the early tourism industry in New Zealand.

7

After an enchanting fun-filled cultural 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

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Easy and good fitness level required.
Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, and 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.
Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as this is the perfect place to get some great experiences photos.
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.
Tours operate in all weather conditions.

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

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook