Waimangu Geothermal Valley & Lake Rotomahana Tour – 7hrs

Tauranga , New Zealand

Waimangu Geothermal Valley & Lake Rotomahana Tour – 7hrs

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(28 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Leaving Tauranga you head south through rolling farmland and forestry, past Lake Rotorua and on to the magical Waimangu Valley where your guide will take you through the world’s youngest geothermal valley. Starting at the head of the valley you will wind your way down the 4 klm walk, passing a range of geothermal activity, hot springs, volcanic craters, and wildlife. Some highlights to look out for include the world's largest hot spring, and the brilliant blue Inferno Crater.

The trails ultimately lead you down to the lake, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing 45 minute cruise around the tranquil waters of Lake Rotomahana. On the cruise, you'll encounter stunning geothermal activity only accessible by boat, as well as rare native birdlife, and stunning views across the lake at the imposing Mount Tarawera. You can also listen to the onboard commentary of the historic stories of the lake, and hear about the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption that covered and destroyed the pink and white terraces.

Available options

Waimangu Geothermal Valley & Lake Rotomahana Tour – 7hrs

Pickup included

What's included

Tauranga port pickup and drop-off

4 km guided walk through the valley

Modern, air-conditioned vehicle

45-minute boat ride on Lake Rotomahana

Entry into Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Expert local driver/guide with live commentary

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This geothermal experience tour completely immerses you in the unique environment of Waimangu Volcanic Valley.

The tour starts with a drive through the suburb of Mount Maunganui with the iconic landmark mountain where you will hear the Maori legend of how Mauao got his name. See one of New Zealand’s most popular beaches "The Mount Main Beach" home of surfing, professional beach volleyball and surf lifesaving competitions. Listen to the history of the Bay of Plenty and hear how the first peoples to arrive here made this beautiful place their home.

Stop 2

The trails ultimately lead you down to the lake, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing 45 minute cruise around the tranquil waters of Lake Rotomahana. Throughout the cruise, you'll encounter stunning geothermal activity only accessible by boat, as well as rare native birdlife, and stunning views across the lake at the imposing Mount Tarawera. You can also listen to the onboard commentary of the historic stories of the lake, and hear about the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption that covered and destroyed the pink and white terraces.

After a short bus ride back up the valley there is time to shop and grab a bite to eat before heading back to Tauranga.

What's not included

Lunch or refreshments

Gratuities

Swimming or water activities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Please meet at the WICKED WANDERS sign board on the grassy mound opposite the port gates.

Important notes

Thank you for booking with Wicked Wanders Tours.

***PLEASE DOUBLE CHECK YOU HAVE BOOKED THE CORRECT DATE, TIME AND PICKUP LOCATION***

If you have any specific questions or requirements regarding your booking with us that is outside of pick-up location and food allergies etc, please contact us directly via email or direct message so we can action it in a timely manner. When we are busy, we may not be able to check the booking notes until the days leading up to your tour and by then it may be too late to accommodate your request.

IMPORTANT:
You will receive an automated reminder three weeks prior to your travel date with all the information regarding where to meet on the day, as well as a confirmed departure time for the tour which may differ to the time on your original booking. Please look for this. If you book less than three weeks prior to your travel date, we will still manually send you the meeting information.

CRUISE SHIP PASSENGERS:
If you are traveling by cruise ship it is important we have a contactable phone number or email address that we can reach you on if anything changes. We appreciate that you may not want to pay for internet on the ship but at the very least you must regularly check your messages while ashore. We take no responsibility in the unlikely event that things change last minute, and we cannot contact you. If you are starting your cruise in New Zealand, we recommend you purchase a prepaid New Zealand SIM card before boarding and notify us of the number.

Thank you and happy holidaying.

About Tauranga

Tauranga is a picturesque coastal city in New Zealand's North Island, known for its stunning beaches, lush parks, and vibrant waterfront. It offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxed coastal living, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Top Attractions

Mount Maunganui

Mount Maunganui, also known as Mauao, is an iconic volcanic mountain with stunning views of the Bay of Plenty. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the beautiful coastline.

Nature 2-3 hours for a round trip hike Free

Tauranga Art Gallery

The Tauranga Art Gallery showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and historical artworks, including works by local, national, and international artists.

Museum 1-2 hours Free entry, donations welcome

McLaren Falls Park

McLaren Falls Park is a beautiful park with a large lake, walking trails, and a variety of wildlife. It's a popular spot for picnics, fishing, and water sports.

Nature Half-day or full-day visit Free entry, fees may apply for some activities

Tauranga Waterfront

The Tauranga Waterfront is a beautiful area with a mix of sandy beaches, parks, and cafes. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenic views of the Bay of Plenty.

Beach Half-day or full-day visit Free

Waimarino Adventure Park

Waimarino Adventure Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. It's a great spot for families and adventure seekers alike.

Adventure Half-day or full-day visit Fees apply for activities, ranging from NZD 10-50 depending on the activity

Must-Try Local Dishes

Seafood Chowder

A creamy and flavorful soup made with a variety of fresh seafood, including fish, mussels, and prawns. It's a popular dish in Tauranga and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Dinner Contains seafood and dairy

Hangi

A traditional Maori method of cooking food in an earth oven, using heated rocks and steam. Hangi is a unique and delicious dining experience, featuring a variety of meats and vegetables cooked to perfection.

Dinner Contains meat and may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Pavlova

A popular New Zealand dessert made with a crispy meringue base, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. It's a sweet and refreshing treat, perfect for enjoying after a meal or as a snack.

Dessert Contains dairy and may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Kayaking Surfing Zip-lining Beach visits Spa and wellness treatments Picnics in the park

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the summer season, perfect for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor adventures. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the city's natural attractions.

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

Tauranga is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. It's also recommended to avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated or poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Tauranga Airport • 10 km from city center
Auckland Airport • 170 km from Tauranga

By bus

Tauranga Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The BayBus system is reliable and user-friendly, with frequent services and clear signage. Fares are affordable, and daily passes are available for frequent travelers.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Mount (Mount Maunganui) Downtown Tauranga Pyes Pa Ohauiti

Day trips

Rotorua

60 km from Tauranga • Full day

Rotorua is a popular destination for its geothermal activity, Maori culture, and outdoor adventures. It's home to a variety of geothermal attractions, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, as well as a rich Maori heritage and a range of adventure activities.

Hobbiton Movie Set

90 km from Tauranga • Full day

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit destination for fans of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. It's a fully immersive experience, with guided tours taking visitors through the Shire, including Hobbit holes, the Party Tree, and the Green Dragon Inn.

Mount Ngongotaha

40 km from Tauranga • Half day

Mount Ngongotaha is a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic views. It's home to a variety of walking and biking trails, as well as a historic lookout tower and a scenic chairlift.

Festivals

Tauranga Arts Festival • February Bay of Plenty Food and Wine Festival • October Matariki Festival • June or July (depending on the lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Visit Mount Maunganui for stunning views and outdoor activities, such as hiking, surfing, and picnicking
Explore the Tauranga Art Gallery and other cultural attractions to learn about the region's history and heritage
Try local seafood dishes, such as fish and chips, seafood chowder, and hangi, for a taste of the region's culinary delights
Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Rotorua, Hobbiton, or Waihi Beach, for a more immersive and diverse experience
Support local businesses and communities by purchasing locally-made products and services, such as kiwifruit, honey, and craft beer