• Auckland - Morning Pick-Up from SkyCity Hotel Auckland CBD: Starting at 5:45am, the tour will commence promptly at 6:00am. Please be punctual to avoid any delays. The pick-up process will take approximately 15 minutes.

Departure: 6:00am
Travel: Auckland to Tirau
Approximately a 2-hour drive covering 175kms via SH 1.

• Dog and Sheep Shaped Corrugated Metal Buildings - Tirau is a quaint town in the Waikato region of New Zealand, celebrated for its whimsical corrugated iron sculptures and inventive architecture. Located along State Highway 1, it is a favored stop for travelers heading to Rotorua, Taupo, and beyond. The town is renowned for its giant corrugated iron sheep and dog buildings, which house the local i-SITE visitor center and a wool shop, adding to its distinctive charm. Tirau also boasts cozy cafes, boutique shops, and local art, making it a delightful and intriguing stop.

Arrival: 8:15am

2. Dog and Sheep Shaped Corrugated Metal Buildings, Tirau, New Zealand

Travelers are encouraged to take a bathroom break and purchase coffee or snacks (15 minutes). Pre-ordering at recommended cafes while en route to Tirau is suggested to save time.

Departure: 8:30am
Travel: Tirau to Mudpool - Wai-O-Tapu
Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes (80 km) via State Hwy 5

• Lady Knox Geyser - The Lady Knox Geyser, situated in the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland near Rotorua, New Zealand, is a natural hot spring geyser that erupts daily at 10:15 AM. Initiated by a surfactant added by park staff, its eruptions can reach heights of 10-20 meters and last for about an hour. Discovered in the early 20th century, it was named after Lady Constance Knox, the daughter of a former New Zealand governor.

• Wai-O-Tapu - The Mud Pool at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, near Rotorua, is one of New Zealand’s most active geothermal features. It consists of bubbling, boiling mud created by underground geothermal activity. The thick, grey mud constantly bubbles due to the release of volcanic gases, offering a fascinating display of nature’s raw power. The Mud Pool sits in a crater formed by a volcanic eruption and is a popular attraction for visitors interested in geothermal phenomena.

• Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland - Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a breathtaking geothermal park near Rotorua, New Zealand. Known for its vibrant, otherworldly landscapes, it features bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and colorful hot springs such as the iconic Champagne Pool. Visitors can explore a network of walking trails that offer close-up views of geysers, including the daily eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser. The park is a unique showcase of geothermal activity and natural beauty, attracting visitors with its surreal colors and dynamic geothermal phenomena.

• Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest - The Redwood Forest, or Whakarewarewa Forest, near Rotorua, is a serene and beautiful forest known for its towering Californian Coast Redwoods, some of which were planted in 1901. This forest offers a network of walking and biking trails that wind through the majestic redwoods, providing stunning views of the lush native plants and geothermal landscapes. The forest is a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a peaceful escape with its fresh air, impressive trees, and vibrant greenery.

• Mercer - On the return journey to Auckland, there will be a brief stopover at Mercer, a small settlement in the Waikato region of New Zealand, offering scenic views of the Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river. The river meanders through the lush, green landscape, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, watch boats pass by, and take in the expansive views of the surrounding countryside. The Mercer area is a popular rest stop for travelers, offering both riverfront views and a glimpse of the natural beauty of the Waikato region.

• Auckland - From Mercer, the journey continues back to Auckland CBD, with drop-offs for tourists at the Airport Transfer and Airport hotels along the way.

• English Speaking Tour Guide
• Per person

• Tea and coffee