Auckland: Rotorua Māori Cultural & Geothermal Tour & Lunch

Embark on a small-group day tour from Auckland to explore the cultural and geothermal marvels of Rotorua. Dive into the heart of Māori traditions with an authentic hangi feast, mesmerizing cultural performances, and an exhilarating warrior canoe experience. The journey continues as you wander through the otherworldly landscapes of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.

Start your day with a pickup from your hotel in Auckland and journey through the stunning countryside of the Waikato region before reaching the famed geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, where Māori culture thrives. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking scenery, capture incredible photos, marvel at beautiful mountains, and spot various farm animals.

From the moment your experience begins, feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Be a witness to the fierce warriors navigating the war canoe along the tranquil waters of Wai-o-Whiro stream and immerse yourself in rich cultural performances such as Wero, Pōwhiri (Traditional Māori Welcome), Waiata (Song), Mōteatea (traditional chant), Poi, Haka and much more.

The amazing cultural performance will teach you about the ancient arts of carving and ta moka (tattoo art), while the weaponry and combat displays will make you understand why the Māori are considered such fearsome warriors. Be amazed at the level of emotion such a simple sight will cause – it’s truly amazing and spine tingling.

Enjoy a delicious mouthwatering traditional hangi food with distinctive flavors and unique preparation of the Māori People cooked in an earth-oven, a hole 1-2m into the ground, the baskets of kai (food) are placed on hot stones at the bottom of a hāngī pit. Experience a sacred and spiritual place that offers you an authentic indigenous cultural experience like no other.

Our second destination is Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of New Zealand’s most colorful and diverse geothermal areas. Thousands of years in the making, this stunning landscape is nestled within a natural bush setting through which self-guided walks take between 45 and 90 minutes.

A walk through this surreal, lunar-like environment provides the chance to witness some of the volcanic wonders and a wide range of amazing photo opportunities at unique features including the world-famous Champagne Pool, naturally colored hot and cold springs, devil’s bath, bubbling mud, steaming ground, expansive vistas, huge volcanic craters, and sinter terrace formations.