Hell's Gate & Rotorua Highlights

8 hours | Tauranga | T R G - 2 3 0
Average Guest Rating
From
$ 199.95
Shorex Best Price Guarantee
Find a better price for any excursion we offer and we will refund you 110% of the price difference.

Points of Interest

  • Rotorua
  • Rainbow Springs
Easy activity

Description

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

WHAT YOU VISIT
Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve
The seething power of inner earth comes alive during this day-long journey into the "Ring of Fire," a seismically active belt that fringes the Pacific basin. Spread out over 50 acres, the reserve is home to steaming fumaroles with names like Devil's Bath and Inferno, and pools of boiling mud-such proximity to these is both thrilling and unnerving. Wind your way past these geothermal wonders to the Kakahi Falls, the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere. Averaging a steamy 104°F, Kakahi Falls has long been a special place for the Maori, who would bathe in its waters after battle; it's believed that the warm temperatures and sulphuric water were a soothing combination for any scratches or wounds.

Mitai Maori Village
A cultural experience that offers you an authentic introduction to the Maori culture includes a cultural performance, warriors in traditional attire paddling in an ancient warrior canoe, and a bush walk to sacred Fairy Spring.

Rainbow Springs Nature Park
Nestled in 22 acres of flourishing native forest and natural springs, the park is home to 35 varieties of native trees and ferns surrounding pools, which are teeming with trout. Enjoy the incredible 60-foot tall trees and the delicate maidenhair ferns. You will also find many exotic native birds on display in the aviaries, and will have plenty of time to visit the nocturnal Kiwi House, where you will meet New Zealand's adorable national emblem, the endangered kiwi bird.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Snap, post and let the world see Mother Nature's geothermal waters, Maori warriors and the cute little kiwis.

LUNCH
The hangi meal includes chicken, lamb, potato, kumara, corn and garlic bread. It is not suitable for vegetarians as meat and vegetables are cooked together.

WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
As you travel north to Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve, you'll be entering a world of awe-inspiring power that's steeped in Maori myth. Legend says that every time Ruaumoko, the God of earthquakes and volcanoes and seasons makes a move, the earth boils and rumbles.

Special Notes:

The hangi meal includes chicken, lamb, potato, kumara, corn and garlic bread. It is not suitable for vegetarians as meat and vegetables are cooked together; however, should a vegetarian option be required, please advise the Shore Excursions staff on board the ship (as soon as possible) so that a special request can be made. Approximately 45 minutes to an hour is spent at the geothermal area. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with back problems.

Details

Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.

Depart ship for Rotorua

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Travel time:
01:15

Arrive Hells Gate for guided tour

Time at site:
01:15

Hells Gate to Rainbow Springs

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Travel time:
00:30

Rainbow Springs

Time at site:
01:00

Transfer to Mitai Maori Village

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Travel time:
00:10

Mitai Maori Village for Concert and lunch

Time at site:
02:20

Return to ship

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Travel time:
01:30