13 hours
E-voucher
English
Overview
Discover the highlights of Rotorua with ease on this small-group day trip from Auckland. Skip the hassle of navigating public transport and enjoy round-trip transportation from central Auckland instead. Along the way, your guide shares local insights, with stops at key landmarks including Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and Mitai Maori Village.
Operated by
ExperienceKart
Ratings & Reviews
Average Rating
4.97
/ 5
30 traveller ratings
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Awesome experience in Mitai Village and WaiO Tapu
845hij, Mar 2026
This is our first time engaging ExperienceKart for a guided tour to Mitai Village and Waiotapu Thermal and we had nothing but a blast! We were greeted by our super friendly tour guide, Mr Karthik at the meeting point and he put us all at ease from the get go. He was such a gem, providing us with nuggets of information all through our drive from Auckland hotel to Rotorua and his enthusiasm kept us all engaged on the tour. The tour van was super comfortable and came with foldable tables for us to eat our snacks and breakfast in the van. We highly recommend Mr Karthik and his company for anyone interested in this tour and we will definitely come back for more!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Kia Ora Hi J, Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for choosing ExperienceKart for your Rotorua journey. We’re delighted to hear that your first experience with us was such a memorable one. It’s fantastic to know that Karthik made you feel comfortable from the very beginning and kept the journey engaging with his knowledge and enthusiasm. We’re also pleased the comfort of the vehicle and thoughtful touches along the way added to your overall experience. Your recommendation truly means a lot to us, and we would be absolutely delighted to welcome you back for more experiences when you return to New Zealand. Ngā mihi nui, The ExperienceKart Team
Great tour company
D863NGpeteb, Mar 2026
Karthik does a wonderful job on his tours. This the second time we booked with him. He’s knowledgeable and flexible to meet the needs of his passengers.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Kia Ora Pete, Thank you so much for your kind review and for choosing to travel with us again. It truly means a lot to welcome returning guests, and we’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed your time on tour once more. We’re especially pleased to know that Karthik’s knowledge and flexibility helped make the experience comfortable and enjoyable for you. Creating a personalised and relaxed journey is something we always strive for. We look forward to welcoming you back for another memorable adventure in Aotearoa. Ngā mihi nui, The ExperienceKart Team
Outstanding!
alanap828, Mar 2026
Kia Ora. Outstanding! Karthik was a wonderful host and tour guide. So kind and knowledgeable. We really enjoyed our experience, it was the highlight of our NZ trip. Will definitely be back and looking for Karthik to show us more. We were a bit hesitant to go on a tour, but it was so worth it, Karthik educated us so well, a 5 star review doesn't do him justice, should be 10! Also, to be noted, we felt really comfortable and safe travelling with him, what a great driver! (And I am a renowned terrible passenger!!) Thanks so much Karthik, well be back! Shane & Alana from Aus.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Kia Ora Shane & Alana, Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words, it truly means a lot to us. We’re absolutely delighted to hear that your day with Karthik was such a highlight of your New Zealand trip. Hearing that the experience exceeded your expectations, especially when you were initially hesitant about taking a tour, is the greatest compliment we could receive. Karthik will be thrilled to know his knowledge, care, and driving made you feel comfortable and safe throughout the journey. We’re so glad the day left such a strong impression, and we would love nothing more than to welcome you back to Aotearoa for another adventure when you return. Ngā mihi nui, The ExperienceKart Team
Rotorua has many highlights particularly the shared Māori cultural activities that are most interesting and accessible.
Larry J, Feb 2026
The Māori experience was educational, fun and interactive. I’m a First Nation Ojibwe woman from Ontario Canada and there are similarities in our cultures and beliefs. The feast of traditional Māori food was delicious. The interesting features like the champagne pool, craters and blowholes and rock formations in the geothermal area was something I’d never experienced. Karthik has a wealth of knowledge that he gladly shares with the group. Karthik’s driving skills focused on safety for us all.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Kia Ora Larry, Thank you for such a meaningful and heartfelt review, it truly means a lot to us. We’re so glad the Māori cultural experience resonated with you, and how special to hear you could connect similarities with your own First Nations heritage. It’s those shared stories and values that make these moments even more powerful. We’re delighted you enjoyed the geothermal landscapes as well, they really are unlike anywhere else in the world. And we couldn’t agree more about Karthik, his passion for sharing knowledge and ensuring a safe, comfortable journey is something we’re very proud of. Thank you for choosing to travel with us and for sharing your experience so beautifully, it was a privilege to be part of your journey. Ngā mihi nui, The ExperienceKart Team
Itinerary
Auckland Central
We pickup travellers from most locations in the Auckland CBD location. If your pickup location is not available on the list, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our very best to accommodate your request.
15 minutesThe Bombay Hills are a range of hills to the south of Auckland, New Zealand. Though only a small and seemingly insignificant range of hills, they lie at the southern boundary of the Auckland region, and serve as a divide between Auckland and the Waikato region. directly named after the ship Bombay, The ship itself was named after the Indian city of Bombay (now Mumbai). Bombay Means: a breed of black short-haired medium-sized cat.
We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Waikato region.
15 minutesDog and Sheep Shaped Corrugated Metal Buildings
We will also pass through the unique town of Tirau (the corrugated iron sculpture capital of the world) known for its antique shops and animal-shaped corrugated iron buildings.
10 minutesBe 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. You will be amazed at the level of emotion such a simple sight will cause – it’s truly amazing and spine tingling! Buffet, the delicious mouthwatering traditional hangi food with distinctive flavours 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.
2 hoursAdmission IncludedWai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Our second destination is Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse geothermal area. Thousands of Years in the Making and "One of the 20 Most Surreal Places in the World". 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 coloured hot and cold springs, devil’s bath, bubbling mud, steaming ground, expansive vistas, huge volcanic craters and sinter terrace formations. With a colourful experience we carry our memories way back to Auckland.
1 hourAdmission IncludedAuckland Central
After an exhilarating fun-filled experience at Rotorua, it is now time to head back to Auckland to conclude your evening and drop-off at your hotel in Auckland. We can also drop you at your accommodation in Rotorua if you are staying locally in the region.
15 minutes
Experience
Highlights
Inclusions
- Admission to self-guided walk at Wai-o-Tapu thermal wonderland.
- Enjoy the cultural Performance including Poi & Haka.
- Learn all about the fascinating culture only found in Aotearoa.
- Complimentary refreshments and water onboard.
- Savor a picturesque drive through vibrant countryside with plenty of stops &capture stunning photos.
- Fully guided return transfers from Auckland.
- Admission to fully guided tour, Haka and hangi buffet lunch at Mitai Māori Village.
- Learn about ancestral weapons and instruments.
- Find a spot with the perfect mix of hot and cold temperatures, a truly magical experience.
- Built-in leisure time, to explore destinations as you wish.
- Luxurious temperature-controlled transportation in a minibus.
- Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland CBD.
- Insights into Māori heritage & historical uses of the land.
- View the unveiling of traditional hangi meal.
- Carry on past the Champagne Pool, a bubbling hot spring famed for its brilliant orange rim.
- Complimentary High-Speed Internet onboard the minibus
- Visit the thermal wonderland of Wai-O-Tapu and witness its unique volcanic features.
- Walk through a surreal lunar-like environment to witness the volcanic wonders.
- Witness the dynamic scene of warriors on the waka taua (war canoe).
- Exclusive immersive activities and interaction with local communities.
- Lunch
- A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour.
Exclusions
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Additional Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Children below 8 years old are required to travel in a child safety car seat.
- Children between 5-7 years old are also recommended to be in a booster seat for their safety.
- Tours are suitable for people of all ages and average fitness. Our scenic walks are short and optional. Please let our guide know at check in if you have any fitness concerns.
- Tours operate in all weather conditions; please dress accordingly.
- Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, and any essential personal items.
- You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
- Suitable for people of all ages. Easy and good fitness level required.
- Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as this is the perfect place to get some great experiences photos.
- Being an active geothermal area with uneven terrain, sturdy footwear is recommended. Jandals, sandals, flip-flops or high heeled shoes are not suitable.
- Some dietary requests could be met. However, given the nature of Maori Kai (food), we are unable to cater to all the dietary needs such as vegan options.
Guide Languages
English
Cancellation Policy
A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.