• Mt Maunganui Main Beach - Pause to appreciate this stunning area, where it’s shared that James Cook discovered it in 1769.
• Kiwifruit Country - As you drive through 25,000 acres of Te Puke kiwi orchards, enjoy a detailed and engaging narrative on the development of this fruit in the country, including a brief overview of the cultivation techniques and its significance to the local economy. A stop at Kurt’s 12-acre orchard offers a closer look. It’s sure to impress.
• Mangorewa River - Travel to Rotorua via a scenic route showcasing excellent examples of native fauna and offering great views of the Pacific Ocean as you descend from the elevated central plateau.
• Whakarewarewa - The Living Maori Village - Entry is included to this historic, world-renowned bubbling geothermal village where local Maori still reside. Be captivated by a dynamic 40-minute cultural performance featuring the local Māori entertainment troupe, showcasing their natural talent for music and dance, including a memorable rendition of the Haka, a war dance that leaves a lasting impression. The Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao village people have a proud history of sharing their stories, songs, and dances for over a century, being the iwi (pronounced “eewee” tribe) that originally guided tourists at the Pink and White Terraces before they were buried in the Mt Tarawera eruption. With a special agreement with the iwi (tribe), you can glimpse the famous Pohutu and Prince of Wales Feathers geysers, which offer a natural (though unpredictable in timing) display of hot gushing groundwater heated by the geothermal activity beneath.
• Lake Rotorua - Choose from one of three fine cafes for lunch, one of which offers a splendid view of the lake and the large intricately carved meeting house (whare nui).
• Government Gardens - Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful gardens and the iconic Rotorua Museum.
• Polynesian Spa - Optionally, indulge in these soothing mineral waters or a mud massage unique to Rotorua. This is a wonderful setting, especially recommended as a winter attraction since most of the 10 or so natural hot mineral pools are at or near body temperature. You can opt to substitute the Whakarewarewa concert and Geothermal walk for this at no extra cost.
• Lake Okareka Walkway - An elevated spot perfect for taking postcard-like photos with the idyllic Lake Okareka in the foreground, its many stunning lakefront holiday homes, and the once lively and active Mt Tarawera (currently dormant) in the background.
• Tikitapu Nature Walk - Enter a prime example of New Zealand’s native forest, where past clients have described it as beautiful and awe-inspiring. The area is abundant with tall podocarps and dozens of different fern varieties, including Jurassic Park tree ferns (Actor Sam Neil is from NZ). Enjoy the walk without fear, as there are no poisonous snakes, spiders, or other scary creatures.
• Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) - Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Rotokakahi (Green Lake) are two gems nestled in a beautiful native forest. Blue Lake is open to everyone and is a great destination for a weekend of swimming, boating, and barbecuing, while Green Lake is “tapu” (taboo, forbidden) due to historical conflicts between local tribes. Capture a stunning panoramic photo from the lookout between these two lakes and be amazed by their beauty.
• Buried Village of Te Wairoa - Pass by this historic site on the way to the Tarawera lookout.
• Mt. Tarawera - Take in the breathtaking view of Mt Tarawera and learn about the history of the 1886 eruption. This is an extraordinary photo stop, offering a great opportunity to capture the lake and mountain that have significantly influenced the region’s history and landscape. Mt Tarawera erupted in 1886, burying the most popular tourist attraction at the time, the Pink and White Terraces, as well as the local village. The volcano can be seen on the opposite side of the lake. Don’t forget your camera!
• Okere Falls - This is the final stop (time permitting) before the 50-minute journey back to the ship. If you are fit and able, descend a 60-step walkway to stand just a meter away from a roaring grade 4 river that drains the large Rotorua and Rotoiti lakes out to the ocean, some 40 km away. It’s an exhilarating experience and a fantastic photo opportunity.

• Local guide
• Bottled water
• All fees and taxes included
• Port pickup and drop-off

• Lunch

A favorite among our patrons - This excursion is ideally suited for those eager to immerse themselves in the varied scenery of Mt Maunganui and Rotorua, with a special emphasis on the geothermal region of Whakarewarewa, widely recognized as ‘The living Maori Village.’ Appreciate a 40-minute show featuring the rich and vibrant Maori culture through song, dance, and narratives.

While en route to Rotorua, take in the sights of splendid beaches and prized properties, ahead of a 45-minute journey from the shoreline, gradually climbing up the central plateau, crossing through Kiwifruit plantations (we intend to make a stop to view these fruit-laden, but not yet ripe, vines) and typical NZ farmland leading up to our most interior point, Rotorua. Get a glimpse of the most well-liked attractions - Blue & Green lakes, view Mt Tarawera (erupted 1886) across the spectacular lake, wander through NZ native bushland packed with ferns and towering podocarps reminiscent of a 19th-century settler or Maori warrior. Explore the mud pools of Kuirau Park, and catch sight of the geysers (incl. the famous Pohutu).

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