Ports of Tauranga Geothermal & Deluxe Spa (restricted 16+)

Tauranga , New Zealand

Ports of Tauranga Geothermal & Deluxe Spa (restricted 16+)

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About this experience

Join us for our over 16 years of age tour

Private guided walking tour through Ohinemutu, a living Māori geothermal village situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua.

After the Māori Village tour we head to Waiariki Spa (adults only).

Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua a world class spa awaits. Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa is a luxury Māori cultural wellness thermal retreat for adults.

Wai Ariki is owned by Ngāti Whakaue and is built on their legacy of cultural traditions, healing practices and manaakitanga (warm hospitality). Wai Ariki meaning 'Chiefly Waters' is architecturally stunning and culturally authentic specialising in holistic health and wellbeing.

The 2-hour Restorative Journey - Wai Whakaora
is a 7-step multisensory experience blending Māori culture, traditional healing practices with the healing elements of geothermal heat, water, mud, and steam. The Journey is unique in the world and has been purposefully curated to relax and rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.

Available options

Ports of Tauranga Geothermal & Deluxe Spa (restricted 16+)

What's included

Entry into Ohinemutu and Waiariki Spa

Bottled water

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Shared grazing platters of sandwiches, fruit and cake/slice with juice, water and herbal tea

Locker, Robe and Towels provided for Spa Experience

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your Rotorua adventure begins with a private guided walking tour through Ohinemutu, a living Māori geothermal village situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua. It is also home to Ngāti Whakaue. Ngāti Whakaue is a sub-tribe of the Te Arawa waka (canoe) which journeyed from the Pacific homeland of Hawaiiki to New Zealand around 1350AD.
Ohinemutu Village was the city centre for the Rotorua region in the early 1870’s. Visitors, including royalty, arrived at this bustling settlement before going on to visit the Pink and White Terraces at Lake Tarawera, and to experience the healing waters of Rotorua.
Today, Ohinemutu is the setting for many significant occasions for the people of Rotorua. It an area of spiritual, historic and cultural importance. You will be guided by a Ngāti Whakaue descendent or family member and learn about a distinctive way of life, see the natural cooking pools and bathing areas, admire the paramount traditional meeting house and St Faith’s Anglican church.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua a world class spa awaits. Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa is a luxury Māori cultural wellness thermal retreat for adults.

Wai Ariki is owned by Ngāti Whakaue and is built on their legacy of cultural traditions, healing practices and manaakitanga (warm hospitality). Wai Ariki meaning 'Chiefly Waters' is architecturally stunning and culturally authentic specialising in holistic health and wellbeing.

The 2-hour Restorative Journey - Wai Whakaora
is a 7-step multisensory experience blending Māori culture, traditional healing practices with the healing elements of geothermal heat, water, mud, and steam. The Journey is unique in the world and has been purposefully curated to relax and rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.
What to Bring
Swimwear, jandels / thongs / slides to walk aroud in (otherwise barefoot is fine)
A towel, robe and locker will be supplied

16 years and above

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children under 16 not permitted at Luxury Spa so tour not suitable for anyone under the age of 16 years

• Travellers with high-risk medical conditions should seek professional advise prior to making a booking

Meeting point

Go out through the gates at the Ports of Tauranga through security and our driver will meet you there with a sign with your names on it

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