Rotorua Duck Boat Guided City and Lakes Tour

Rotorua , New Zealand

Rotorua Duck Boat Guided City and Lakes Tour

Active

(590 reviews)

1h - 1h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Rotorua on a unique 90-105 minute sightseeing adventure on-board a WWII amphibious vehicle able to travel on land and water! Our tours leave at regular intervals from a central city location and explore Rotorua's most stunning scenery. We have 18 lakes in the Rotorua region all set within lush native New Zealand bush. Our tours are fully guided as well with our tour guides covering everything from Maori migration, geothermal history, history of Rotorua and much more.

Available options

City and Lakes Tour

What's included

Driver/guide

90-minute tour on authentic World War II amphibious vehicle

Live commentary on board

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Drive around lakefront and learn about history. Great for photo opportunities.

Where all our tours depart from

Stop 3 Pass by

Drive past, view and learn about history

Stop 4 Pass by

We drive through the Government Gardens, learn about history.

Stop 5 Pass by

Talk about walkway on tour

Stop 6 Pass by

Point our where the track starts and how good it is.

Stop 7 Pass by

View and learn about 1886 Eruption

Learn about Treewalk

Stop 9 Pass by

Drive past, view and talk about history

Stop 10 Pass by

Stop view and learn about

Stop 11 Pass by

Drive by and learn about

Stop 12 Pass by

Drive around, view and learn about

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Written guide

DE KO CMN JA EN FR ES

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

107 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

483 reviews

5★

417

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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

Meeting point

Please arrive at the meeting point 20 minutes prior to your departure time.
Late arrivals will need to reschedule to the next available departure.

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