Rotorua , New Zealand

Mountain Jade Highlights Tour

Active

(30 reviews)

40m

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

In the heart of Rotorua's city centre, just a short walk from the must-see Government Gardens, our artists are absorbed in their craft, passionately hand-carving New Zealand pounamu with love and dedication. They invite you to come and discover the stories behind their carvings and step inside our studio for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes experience.

You’ll get up close to the action and spend unforgettable one-on-one time with our artists, learning about the jade carving process and watching live carving demonstrations. As you embark on a journey into the rich history of pounamu, you’ll discover fascinating insights into the cultural significance of the stone and its traditional uses and values.

To top it all off, you will choose your very own piece of pounamu and learn how to string it into a necklace to take home and treasure forever.

Available at 10.00 am, daily. Infant ages are 0-2 years.

Available options

Mountain Jade Highlights Tour

What's included

See a live jade carving demonstration

Chance to spend exclusive time with New Zealand jade artists in their studio

This is a fully guided experience with jade experts. Allow 40 minutes.

A piece of New Zealand pounamu to take home.

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Detailed itinerary

Meet local artists as they craft jade by hand and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and atmosphere of our carving workshop. Your guide will take you on an in-depth journey into the history of jade carving in New Zealand, uncovering the significance of pounamu for Māori and exploring the traditional uses and values of the stone. You'll see the highlights of our jade gallery and then head to the studio to spend exclusive time with our artists, learning about the carving process and watching them work. After visiting the studio, you'll get to choose and string a piece of New Zealand pounamu, turning it into a necklace to take home and treasure forever.

What's not included

Infant tickets (0-2 years) are free of charge but this tickets does not include a piece of pounamu.

You do not get to carve your own pounamu. Instead, you will observe our artists carving.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

16 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

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not recommended for people who cannot stand for 40-minutes as limited seating available

Important notes

Please come to Mountain Jade at 1288 Fenton Street Rotorua for your tour. There are two Mountain Jade locations in Rotorua, so please make sure you come to the correct address. Please arrive 5 minutes before your departure time.

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