• Rotorua - Explore some recommended highlights or design a personalized itinerary for a day in Rotorua.
• Sulphur Point - Situated at the southern tip of Lake Rotorua, Sulphur Bay exemplifies Rotorua’s renowned geothermal landscape.

The ever-evolving scenery around the bay offers everything a visitor to Rotorua could desire. Silica flats, rocky terraces, and sulphur ledges accompany active boiling mud pools and steam vents. The water itself is fascinating, with its milky hue caused by suspended sulphur particles.

The bay’s proximity to feeding grounds and the warmth from geothermal activity attract numerous native birds. Birdwatching enthusiasts can observe around 60 different species, including the banded dotterel, the scaup, and three types of gull in this protected wildlife reserve.

• Government Gardens - These beautiful and expansive gardens are located near the heart of Rotorua. The Government Gardens feature a bowling club, petanque, croquet, and a golf course.

Within the gardens, visitors will find various points of interest, such as the 1927 Arawa Soldiers Memorial, several geothermal features, and the Kwaqiulth Totem Pole. The meticulously maintained gardens are a short walk from Lake Rotorua, the town center, and the wildlife refuge of Sulphur Bay.

The land holds legendary and historical significance for the local Maori people, with several important battles having occurred there. The original Maori owners generously gifted the 50 acres of land in the late nineteenth century for ‘the benefit of the people of the world.’

The Government Gardens also house the Rotorua Museum, Polynesian Spa, and the Blue Baths. The restored Blue Baths offer a chance to enjoy a warm dip and relax in an architecturally stunning building.

• Kuirau Park - Walking tracks lead to numerous areas of intense geothermal activity. As long as visitors remain on the safe side of the fences, they are generally quite secure.

New eruptions can occur occasionally, so it’s wise to be cautious. In 2001, mud and rocks the size of footballs were suddenly launched 10 meters into the air as a new steam vent made its presence known. Two years later, similar eruptions delighted visitors.

In early Maori times, the small lake in the park was much cooler and known as Taokahu. Legend tells of a beautiful young woman named Kuiarau who was bathing in the waters when a taniwha (legendary creature) dragged her to his lair beneath the lake. The gods were angered and made the lake boil to destroy the taniwha forever. Since then, the bubbling lake and steaming land have been named after the lost woman, with a slight change in spelling.

• Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest - Locally known as ‘The Redwoods,’ the 55,000ha Whakarewarewa Forest is a haven for mountain bikers, walkers, hikers, and horse riders, set among magnificent stands of towering Californian Redwoods, lush native forest, and exotic trees.

The Redwood Memorial Grove was planted in 1901, dedicated to the memory of the men of the New Zealand Forest Service who died in the two World Wars. These iconic trees tower approximately 67 meters (219 feet) tall, offering incredible photo opportunities. This easy short walk also features a boardwalk over an old thermal pond, home to unique aquatic plant life.

• Bottled water
• Snacks
• Towels for foot spa

• Lunch

Standard tour hours are from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (confirmation will be provided beforehand).

Discover the marvels of Rotorua with a private tour tailored to your preferred attractions (accommodating up to 11 passengers). The tour requires a minimum duration of six hours, guaranteeing a comprehensive experience. Please be aware that entry fees to attractions are not included in the tour cost.

As we return to your ship, relax and cherish the memories created while exploring “our backyard.”

• Comfortable footwear is recommended

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.