Tauranga Shore Excursion: Private Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and Whakarewarewa Maori Cultural Village

After your private guide picks you up from the dock in Tauranga, enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the Wai-O-Tapu geothermal region, home to some of New Zealand's most spectacular geothermal landmarks.

Before the eruption of the Tarawera Volcano in 1886, Wai-O-Tapu was famous for a natural feature known as the Pink and White Terraces. The eruption destroyed the terraces and created today’s landscape of steaming hot springs, bubbling geysers and pools of vibrant turquoise, orange, gold and olive-green water.

Take in the geothermal park on a walking tour with your guide, who shows you around Wai-O-Tapu on your choice of easy walks that last anywhere from 30 to 75 minutes. You might catch the daily eruption of the Lady Knox geyser and admire the colorful Champagne Pool and Artist’s Palette.

Next up, visit Whakarewarewa, an authentic Maori village that showcases the traditions of the Tuhourangi/Ngati Wahiao people. Take a tour of the village with a local Maori guide who shares the history and culture of the local people. See key sites in the village, hear stories about the geothermal environment, and learn how the villagers have harnessed the energy of the hot springs and steam vents for cooking and bathing. You may even see the Pohutu Geyser in action, as the 100-foot (30-meter) geyser erupts up to 20 times a day.

You'll have plenty of time for photo ops and a lunch break (own expense) during your shore excursion. At the end of a fascinating day out, enjoy the scenery around Lake Rotorua as your guide returns you to the port in Tauranga.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:

We will ensure your timely return to the Tauranga port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.