Rotorua , New Zealand

4x4 Self Drive Yamaha Experience

Active

(99 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Your 4x4 self drive buggy experience will take you along 100 year old forestry tracks and up to the very highest lookout in the whole of Rotorua. We have 2 seater & 4 seater buggies available depending on your group. You will be give a safety briefing prior to your tour departing and head into our training area for some laps to get used to driving this amazing buggy. Your tour is led by one of our qualified guides and half way through you have the option to swap driving seats so you share the driving. Safety helmets are provided and each driver must hold a valid drivers license from their country of origin. Amazing views with stops at designated lookouts along the way so don't forget to bring your phone to capture the moment.

Available options

4x4 self drive 1 hour tour

Duration: 10 hours<br/>4x4 2, 3 or 4 seater buggy

What's included

safety gear provided

Professional guide

Guided self drive buggy tour

Detailed itinerary

Guided 4x4 self drive buggy experience

What's not included

No hotel pick up service available

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

98 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Evidence of drivers license is required from all drivers wishing to participate in this activity. Minimum of NZ Restricted license is required.

Full instruction will be given prior to departing for the tour

Guided activity

Warm clothing and covered in shoes required

Meeting point

We are located approximatly 10 minutes drive from Rotorua City Centre.

Important notes

Customer to provide contact phone number while staying in New Zealand

About Rotorua

Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal activity, Maori culture, and stunning natural landscapes. The city is a hub for geothermal wonders, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, making it a unique and appealing destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Te Puia

Te Puia is a geothermal park and cultural center showcasing Maori culture and geothermal activity. Visitors can see geysers, mud pools, and traditional Maori performances.

Nature/Cultural 2-3 hours $45-60 NZD

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

This geothermal park features colorful hot springs, geysers, and bubbling mud pools. It's one of the most visited attractions in Rotorua.

Nature 2-3 hours $38 NZD

Redwoods Treewalk

A unique night walk through the Redwoods forest on illuminated platforms. The experience offers a magical view of the towering trees and the night sky.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours $50-70 NZD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Maori feast cooked in an earth oven using geothermal heat. The meal typically includes meat, kumara (sweet potato), and vegetables.

Dinner Can be adapted for vegetarian and vegan diets

Whitebait Fritters

A delicacy made from tiny whitebait fish, mixed with egg and fried into a fritter. It's a popular dish in the region.

Lunch Contains fish

Rewena Bread

A traditional Maori bread made from fermented potato and flour, cooked in a hangi or oven.

Breakfast/Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Ziplining Mountain biking White water rafting Black water rafting Spa treatments Hot spring soaking Scenic walks Maori cultural experiences

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Rotorua, offering warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the geothermal attractions.

21-25°C 70-77°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

Rotorua is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited services or tours
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air

Rotorua Regional Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Rotorua Bus Depot

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services to key locations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Rotorua Central Ohinemutu

Day trips

Waitomo Caves

100 km from Rotorua • Full day

The Waitomo Caves are famous for their stunning limestone formations and glowworm caves. Visitors can take guided tours through the caves and experience the magical glowworm displays.

Taupo

60 km from Rotorua • Half day to full day

Taupo is a lakeside town known for its stunning natural beauty and adventure activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and exploring the nearby geothermal parks.

Festivals

Rotorua Festival of Lights • Late November to early January

Pro tips

Visit geothermal parks early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the geysers erupt
Book cultural experiences and tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons
Try local Maori cuisine, such as hangi and rewena bread, for an authentic Rotorua experience
Pack layered clothing, as the weather can change quickly and geothermal activity can make the air feel warmer
Use the AT HOP card for discounted fares on public transport