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Lake Rotorua Tours and Tickets
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The Rotorua area boasts dozens of lakes, but Lake Rotorua is larger, deeper, and older than its neighbors. Geologists believe that Rotorua, the second-largest lake on the North Island, dates back more than 200,000 years, while most of the region’s other waterways were created by the Tarawera eruption of 1886.
- Lake Rotorua, Rotorua, North Island
Tours and Tickets to Experience Lake Rotorua
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37 results
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Hobbiton, Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip in Luxury Minibus from Auckland
Cover plenty of ground in one day by combining several North Island highlights: Waitomo Caves, Hobbiton, and Rotorua. Ride a boat through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves to see these radiant lights. Take a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you find the Green Dragon Inn, the Mill and the home of Bilbo Baggins from ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘The Lord of the Rings.’ Enjoy lunch at Te Puia, home to Pohutu Geyser. You can start and finish your tour in either Auckland or Rotorua, traveling one-way or round-trip.
... More- 13 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$306.12
Rotorua Duck Boat Guided City and Lakes Tour
Discover Rotorua on a 1.5-hour duck tour. This sightseeing adventure takes you aboard a World War II amphibious vehicle — able to travel on land and water. Start with a city tour past Government Gardens, the Blue Baths and more before splashing down into Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Okareka. Enjoy family fun along the way with a provided duck caller, and listen to live commentary about Rotorua’s history and local landmarks.
... More- 15 minutes
- Free Cancellation
from
US$52.14
Rotorua Geothermal Living Maori Village Tour Whakarewarewa 6.5hours Tour
Visit an authentic Living Maori Village deep in the geothermal region of Rotorua on this full-day excursion including a Hangi Lunch. Tour with a local Maori guide and learn about how the villagers have adapted to the harsh geothermal environment. You tour will also include visits to the famous Government Gardens and Rotorua Lake. This is a small group tour with a group size up to 18.
Please note that the ticket sent to you by Viator/TripAdvisor will show the standard tour departure time. As the ships arrival time in port varies so much, we adjust the start and end times each day to suit the ships time in port. When your booking is accepted by us, we will confirm the true start time for the day, which overrides the time printed on your voucher.
We use the correct times for the ship which we take from the Port of Tauranga web site and details provided to us by the ships booking agent as we also provide some of the official tours to the ship, so trust us.
... More- 6 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
from
US$134.35
Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour (One Way)
This convenient day trip visits two of the North Island’s most popular attractions from Auckland in a single day, which would be difficult if traveling independently. The small-group, fully guided mini-bus tour takes you to several natural wonders, such as rivers, natural geothermal pools, and glow-worm caves. Your guide will tell you all about the natural and cultural history, to help you better understand what you’re seeing.
... More- 13 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$183.42
Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour
Even on the cloudiest night, the New Zealand glowworm lights up the darkness in a lucky few spots across the country. This short evening bush-walk departing from Rotorua involves a short drive, a walk through picturesque native bush and the chance to see these increasingly rare creatures. Tack this tour onto the end of a thrilling day in Rotorua instead of hiring a car for an almost two-hour drive west to visit the exceedingly popular Waitomo Caves. This is one of the easiest ways to experience Aotearoa’s unique glowworm habitats.
... More- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$55.21
Katoa Jet Boat tour on Lake Rotorua
Blast around Lake Rotorua on a jet boat tour! An expert driver spins you around on an adrenaline-infused adventure and delivers you at top-speed to all of the iconic landmarks. Experience 30 action-packed minutes of family-friendly fun as you hear live narration on the history of the area. Select from multiple departure times; spray jackets included.
... More- 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
from
US$52.14
Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Options - Smaller groups
This small-group day trip from Auckland features the highlights and hospitality of Rotorua. Visit the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute of Te Puia, witness the thermal activity of the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, and tour the city with a knowledgeable guide. Opt for additional free time to explore on your own, or upgrade for a private soak at the Polynesian Spa, a visit to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, or a Maori concert. You have the flexibility to return to Auckland or end with drop-off in Rotorua.
... More- 13 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$223.91
Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland -Smaller Groups
Take in two of New Zealand’s top attractions in one day on this Rotorua and Waitomo Caves day trip from Auckland. Visit Rotorua with a guide and take in key sites including Te Puia and the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. After lunch, admire fine views over Lake Rotorua on route to the famous Waitomo Caves. During your boat ride, gain insight into the caves’ geological significance and marvel at the luminescent glow worms illuminating the dark caves.
... More- 13 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$279.12
Guided Horse Trekking from Rotorua
Explore the New Zealand countryside on horseback on this 1-hour horse trekking tour from Rotorua. Climb onto your horse and head into the foothills of Mt Ngongotaha with a guide. Follow winding trails over working farmland and through native bush, and admire beautiful views over Lake Rotorua. Stop along the way to capture the views on camera, then descend back through the green paddocks to base. This horse trek is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, with horses and ponies to match all riding abilities.
... More- 1 hour
- Free Cancellation
from
US$46.01
Shore Excursion: Geothermal Rotorua with Maori Cultural Performance at Whakarewarewa
When your cruise ship docks in Tauranga, head out for a full-day tour of Mt. Maunganui and Rotorua. In Rotorua, learn about Maori culture, and see geothermal hot pools and the Pohutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa—The Living Maori Village. Sample New Zealand specialties such as manuka honey and kiwi fruit, and spend time checking out highlights including Lake Rotorua and Government Gardens.
... More- 3 hours 45 minutes
- Free Cancellation
from
US$159.00
Price varies by group size
Off-Road 4WD Buggy Adventure from Rotorua
Ride along dirt tracks and trails on a 30-minute or 1-hour 4WD adventure in Rotorua, and experience New Zealand off-roading. You’ll explore rolling farmland and scenic native forests with an professional guide who will drive you to a viewpoint overlooking Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island. This small-group 4WD tour is limited to five participants per buggy.
... More- 1 hour
- Free Cancellation
from
US$60.73
Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour (One Way)
Make the most of the journey from Auckland to Rotorua by visiting one of New Zealand’s most popular attractions along the way—the Hobbiton Movie Set. Relive memorable moments from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films on a guided tour of Hobbiton, enjoy free time for lunch (own expense) at the Shire’s Rest Café, then continue to Rotorua, where you’ll be given an introductory tour of the city before being dropped at your hotel.
... More- 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$183.42
Explore The Lakes Tour
Rotorua’s volcanic history has created a landscape of lakes. See some of the most spectacular ones on this half day tour, traveling in a small group with a knowledgeable guide. Exercise your legs with a bushwalk, watch springs bubble, and learn about the natural processes which have shaped this land of fire and water.
... More- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$73.00
Deluxe small group Cruise Day Tour, Rotorua, Tauranga & Mt Maunganui highlights
Easily explore the area outside the Port of Tauranga during this guided tour that includes port pickup and drop-off. First visit a New Zealand kiwi orchard, and get the chance to taste the native fruit yourself. Catch sight of natural wonders such as Okere Falls, Blue Lake, and Whakarewarewa Forest before going to taste New Zealand honey at a local farm (time permitting).
... More- 3 hours 55 minutes
- Free Cancellation
from
US$137.50
Price varies by group size
Private Luxury Tour Anywhere in NZ - Choose any number of days & destinations
Design your perfect New Zealand trip and feel like a VIP with every detail taken care of on this custom-made tour. Where you go and what you do is completely up to you, so you could visit the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, and Waitomo Glowworm Caves on the North Island; discover Milford Sound, Queenstown, and the Fox Glacier on the South Island; or tour LOTR sites such as Tongariro and Hobbiton.
... More- 12 days
from
US$736.15
per group
Likely to Sell Out
Day Tour Hobbiton + Rotorua from Auckland in Luxury Minibus
Explore the Shire and Middle-Earth on this full-day Hobbiton and Rotorua tour from Auckland. Travel through Waikato with a guide and admire panoramic views over the Hauraki Plains. Enjoy a guided tour of Hobbiton — made famous in the ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ movies. Learn how the set was created, and discover sites you love including the Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn and the Mill. After lunch in Te Puia, head into the geothermal Te Whakarewarewa Valley where shooting geysers, bubbling mud pools and steaming hot springs await.
... More- 13 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$291.39
Thermal Path Tour
Rotorua is known for its hot springs and geothermal activity, but without local knowledge, it can be tricky to know the best off the beaten path mud pools and thermal springs to visit. This small-group guided tour is the perfect solution. Travel in an air-conditioned minivan, and visit a selection of outdoor thermal sites—such as Te Manaroa Spring, Waikite Valley Thermal Pools, and Waiotapu Mud Pool.
... More- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$73.00
2-Day Hobbiton, Rotorua, Waitomo Caves Tour from Auckland with Accommodation
Combine three of New Zealand’s most popular attractions on this 2-day tour from Auckland. Step into Middle Earth on a tour of the Hobbiton movie set from 'Lord of the Rings,' explore the geothermal landscapes of Rotorua, and cruise through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. This great-value tour includes hotel pickup, some meals, and overnight accommodation in Rotorua.
... More- 2 days
- Free Cancellation
from
US$760.69
Katoa Jet Boat & Lake Rotoiti Hot Pools
Experience the adrenaline-pumping excitement of high-speed turns and spins during a 45-minute jet boat ride across Lake Rotorua. Then, to help you recover from the exhilaration of jet boating, follow up with a relaxing soak at Manupirua Thermal Springs, a stunning boat-accessible location at the edge of Lake Rotoiti. Soothe your nerves with a soak in six mineral hot pools then cool off in the lake.
... More- 2 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
from
US$101.22
Private Tour Rotorua Shore Excursion up to 8 Passengers
Make the most of a short time in Tauranga and Rotorua on a private shore excursion for up to eight people. Travelers with a range of interests will enjoy this varied itinerary, which can be customized to suit your needs. Visit beautiful beaches, sample local kiwifruit, stroll through shady redwood forests, and be amazed at Rotorua’s geothermal attractions. A mix of cultural and natural attractions are offered.
... More- 6 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$570.52
per group
Likely to Sell Out
White-Water Sledging Adventure
Take a scenic excursion through the New Zealand wilderness on this 3-hour white-water sledging adventure from Rotorua. Listen as a guide explains the challenges ahead, then — with your helmet and life vest clipped on — take to the Okere River on your floating sledge. Twist and turn through swirling river rapids, float gracefully along relaxing flats, and admire views over the mighty Kahikatea Forest. This family-friendly tour is suitable for thrill-seekers of all ages and skill levels.
... More- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
from
US$85.27
Private Full-Day Rotorua Tour from Auckland
Immerse yourself in Māori culture, history, and tradition during this full-day private tour to Rotorua from Auckland. Get a traditional Māori welcome followed by a cultural show at Te Puia, then continue to the Kiwi House to get a good look at New Zealand's national bird. Follow your dedicated guide through the Pikirangi Māori Village to see how the indigenous people of New Zealand lived before the European settlers arrived. Explore the mud pools and geysers in the Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley and spend time in the Rotorua government center. Round-trip transportation from Auckland is included; all entrance fees are at your own expense.
... More- 4 hours 45 minutes
- Free Cancellation
from
US$533.71
Price varies by group size
Rotorua Private tour with Hotspring
This tour is a one day Tour to Rotorua from Auckland. This tour is a small private tour. This tour is focusing on healing and relaxing through our tour. You will need to bring your own swimsuit and towels for the hot spring as they are not renting the swimsuit. Also, you need to using comfortable shoes as you will going to do some trekking around the lake.
... More- 3 hours 35 minutes
from
US$521.44
Price varies by group size
Private 2 Day Tour: Hobbiton, Waitomo, Rotorua Geothermal & Hamilton Gardens
Experience several of the central North Island’s highlights on this private two-day tour that’s ideal for cruise ship passengers or those short on time. Be immersed in movie-making history at Hobbiton, admire the twinkling glow worms at Waitomo Caves, be amazed by the geothermal attractions at Te Puia Geothermal Valley in Rotorua, and enjoy a river cruise at the Hamilton Gardens. See and do a lot in two days.
... More- 2 days
from
US$1,410.95
Price varies by group size
What are people saying about Lake Rotorua
Justin_H, Sept 2023
Mean as.
The tour was fun.
Tour guide was Skux 👌 funny and informative.
The boat ride was kool as my kids and I had a blast.
Definitely do it again nxt time we are here.
Shannon_N, Jul 2023
Family outing
Me and my family had a great time especially the teenagers couldn't wipe there smiles off there faces. Would loved to have had some photos but was to present in the moment that we for got 🤦, highly recommended if in Rotorua
Rachel_T, Mar 2023
Great experience for the family and kids.
The weather wasn't the best but the driver was absolutely fantastic. Picking the best path of travel and using it to his advantage. Was so much fun. Really enjoyed getting up close to the island.
seba_h, Feb 2023
Go for it
Knowing the history re: Mokoia Isl, the spins on the boat, the romantic story of Hinemoa & Tūtanekai. Great / Funny driver
Frequently Asked QuestionsQ:What's the best way to experience Lake Rotorua?
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- Government Gardens Rotorua
- Rotorua Museum (Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa)
- Blue Baths
- Polynesian Spa
- Te Pā Tū (Tamaki Māori Village)
- Whakarewarewa
- Rainbow Springs Nature Park
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- Maori Arts and Crafts Institute (Te Puia)
- Mitai Maori Village
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