Ports of Tauranga/Rotorua/Tga - 6 Hours Rotorua Highlights Tour

Tauranga , New Zealand

Ports of Tauranga/Rotorua/Tga - 6 Hours Rotorua Highlights Tour

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(30 reviews)

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About this experience

Pick up from Ports of Tauranga and travel 40 mins to Okere Falls.

Walk down through our native forest to the waterfall that is on the Kaituna River – you may be lucky enough to see some of our local rafters coming over the fall. Next travel into town and head out to visit 3 of our lakes. Stop at the lookout between Blue and Green lakes. Stop at Tarawera Lake lookout for picture opportunities and visit Rangiruru Bay to take some pics on the jetty.

Travel into town and walk through the Redwood Forest at your own leisure. At your own expense you can take a tour through the forest from above (this takes 45 minutes). Redwoods Treewalk offers suspended bridges high amongst the trees, adorned with intricate wooden lanterns and history of the trees on each platform between the trees.

Head to Rotorua Lakefront/Sulphur Point, take a stroll through Government Gardens, wander through Kuirau Park, and have a foot soak in the heated foot pools and take in the bubbling mud pools.

Available options

Ports of Tauranga/Rotorua/Tga - 6 Hours Rotorua Highlights Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Licensed Guide

Detailed itinerary

Walk through our native bush and view the Okere Falls and if you are lucky see some rafts come over the Grade 5 waterfall

Stop 2

Walk through the Redwood Forest at your leisure, or for an additional cost complete the Redwood Treewalk seen here www.treewalk.co.nz

Lake Tikitapu, affectionately known as Blue Lake, is a local favourite and well known to regular visitors to Rotorua. Popular for swimming, boating, trout fishing and water sports, this small circular lake has an easy circuit walking track and links to the mountain bike trail network in Whakarewarewa Forest. The name comes from Māori history.

Rotokākahi means "the lake of the shellfish kakahi". Locals also refer to the lake as the Green Lake.

Rotokākahi is sacred to Māori, and Motutawa Island in the middle of the lake is the burial ground of many Māori ancestors. The lake is privately owned by local iwi (tribes) and no swimming, fishing or boating is permitted.

Stop 5

Government Gardens is one of Rotorua’s historic landmarks and most popular tourism destinations. You'll want to have your camera on hand for this spot!

Originally known as Paepaekumana, the local Māori iwi (tribe) gifted 50 acres of land to the Crown in the late 1800s “for the benefit of the people of the world”. The land contained a geothermal area with several therapeutic hot pools. Following the ratification of the original gift in 1883, the reserve was vested in the Government of New Zealand in 1898 as an area where the thermal waters could be used and promoted as a health spa similar to those in Europe.

One of the most iconic and well photographed buildings in New Zealand

Stop 6

Just beyond the Rotorua Museum and along the south-eastern corner of Lake Rotorua, you’ll find an amazing volcanic playground to explore that’s also home to unique plantlife and threatened birds who’ve adapted in order to survive in this harsh environment

The northern end of Rotorua has a public park that is definitely alive and well. Walking tracks lead to numerous areas of vigorous geothermal activity. Provided you stay on the cool side of the safety fences, visitors are generally quite safe.
In early Maori times the small lake in the park was much cooler and was known as Taokahu. Legend tells us that a beautiful young woman named Kuiarau was bathing in the waters when a taniwha (legendary creature) dragged her to his lair below the lake. The gods above were angered and made the lake boil so the Taniwha would be destroyed forever. From that time on, the bubbling lake and the steaming land around it have been known by the name of the lost woman, although the spelling has changed a little.

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities

Any additional Entry fees such as Redwood Treewalk

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

28 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travel time is already included in the total duration

Time for Lunch Break is included

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