Beaches and Lakes

6 hours | Tauranga | TRG-245
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Points of Interest

  • Rotorua
Moderate activity

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

WHAT YOU VISIT
Lake Rotoiti
Surrounded by beech trees and the Saint Arnaud Range mountain range, the 269-foot-deep lake is renowned as one of the most beautiful lakes in the region. Upon arrival, you'll stop at the wishing tree to commence a walk through untouched native forest. The track follows the very line used by the dragged war canoes and brings you to the shore of Lake Rotoiti, where your boat awaits. Once aboard, you'll sail by secluded bays with native bush-clad shorelines and holiday cottages.

Lake Rotorua
Formed from the crater of a large dormant volcano, the lake's unique dark green-yellow color is due to the high content of sulphur and other volcanic minerals. In the center of the lake sits Mokoia Island, an iconic Rotorua landmark dating back to 1350 A.D. A sanctuary for many of New Zealand's endangered wildlife and rare New Zealand birds, the island is considered sacred by the local Maori.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
A stone monument at Maketu Beach marks the spot where the Maori, New Zealand's original inhabitants, first stepped off the Te Arawa waka (canoe) around 800 years ago. While admiring the views, you'll learn how the Hongi Hika warriors hauled the giant war canoes from the coast to conquer the tribes of the lakes. Today Maketu beach is a popular place to fish, kayak, wind/kite surf, picnic, gather shellfish and bird watch.

LUNCH
Enjoy a light luncheon as you cruise Lake Rotoiti past steep cliffs, sandy coves and the lakes edge geothermal activity.

WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Delight in a drive along the beautiful coastline, native forest and fresh water lakes of the Bay of Plenty.

Special Notes:

This tour involves around one hour of walking which includes gravel terrain. A degree of agility is required when boarding the boat. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.

Coach pick up at port - Drive to Maketu Beach

Time at site:
0:45

Arrive at Maketu Beach for view and story

Time at site:
0:15

Board coach for scenic coastal drive to walking track by Lake Rotoiti

Time at site:
1:10

Arrive at Hongi's track for forest walk (Optional)

Time at site:
0:30

Arrive at Lake Rotoiti and board lake launch for lunch and lake cruise

Time at site:
2:00

Arrive at other end of the lake to disembark vessel and board coach

Time at site:
0:10

Arrive at lake edge Lake Rotorua reserve to view the lake and Mokoia Island

Time at site:
0:15

Leave reserve and drive to Port of Tauranga via Kiwifruit country

Time at site:
0:55