Explore The Lakes Tour
Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Explore The Lakes Tour – 9am to 1pm
By far the best lakes tour in Rotorua, small group, locations and value.
With 18 lakes in the Rotorua area our Explore The Lakes Tour provides a driver-guided exploration of some of the highlights of New Zealand’s Lake District: Hamurana springs, the largest fresh water spring in the North island. Okere falls and Tutea falls with Native forest walk. lake Rotoiti, the Blue and Green lakes and lake Tarawera. Explore our favourite scenic spots and natural springs on foot. Take photographs at your leisure and learn about Rotorua’s colourful culture and history from our knowledgeable and friendly guide.
• Highlights
• Small group, relaxed atmosphere.
• Informative, outgoing driver-guide.
• Breath-taking scenery.
• No queues .
• Half day tour.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A maximum of 8 people per tour
Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Supportive footwear such as trainers or hiking boots is recommended
This tour includes walks of up to 2 kilometers, a good level of fitness and balance is required for all participants
Risk Disclosure: We operate a strict safety management system that is audited to New Zealand standards. It is important for you to be aware of the risk and hazards of this tour which are: uneven grounds, tree roots, rocks and slippery surfaces that could result in slips, trips and falls causing injury / strains / sprains / or broken bones
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Lake Rotorua
with 18 lakes in the district i will guide you to the best locations, without the crowds and part of a small group
Hamurana Springs Nature Reserve
Towering redwoods, crystal clear waters, crowd free
What‘s Included
All Fees and Taxes
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Hotel pickup and drop-off in Rotorua Central only.
Lunch
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Explore The Lakes Tour
Pickup included
Reviews
71 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Book this tour today
Susan A,Apr 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This trip was wonderful, we thoroughly enjoyed it, Stephen is so knowledgeable, we felt we learnt so much and gained way more than if we had decided to tour Rotorua on our own. The special places Stephen showed was absolutely stunning, and the added bonus was the beautiful hot chocolate provided by Stephen's wife, the best I've had since in NZ. Do yourself a favour, book this tour and sit back and enjoy.
Book this tour now
sueaU1247PG,Apr 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This trip was wonderful, we thoroughly enjoyed it, Stephen is so knowledgeable, we felt we learnt so much and gained way more than if we had decided to tour Rotorua on our own. The special places Stephen showed was absolutely stunning, and the added bonus was the beautiful hot chocolate provided by Stephen's wife, the best I've had since in NZ. Do yourself a favour, book this tour and sit back and enjoy.
A Must-Do Hidden Gem in Rotorua!
219vanac,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you are looking for an authentic, local experience that feels miles away from the typical tourist traps, the Explore The Lakes Tour by Real Rotorua is an absolute must. From the start, the experience was seamless. Rosa was incredibly helpful and prompt with our booking, making the entire process stress-free. After completing the tour, I can truly say this experience is a hidden gem. There is something so rewarding about supporting a local business that clearly pours so much heart into what they do. Our guide, Stephen, was fantastic. His passion for the environment and the local nature is infectious. He shares a deep knowledge of Māori culture throughout the journey, and it was impressive to hear him pronounce the traditional names of each location with such ease and respect. Highlights of the Day: Hamurana Springs: This was a magical walk. We learned about "dancing sand," which was fascinating to see in person. A real highlight was being "followed" by the gorgeous pīwakawaka (fantails) and spotting Grey Warblers. Stephen is quite talented at mimicking bird calls, which actually drew them closer to us for an amazing up-close encounter! Traditional Waka History: It was incredibly interesting to learn about the history of the Waka. Stephen’s storytelling really brings the Māori heritage to life and gives you a much deeper appreciation for the culture of the region. Okere Falls: The thundering waterfalls are stunning. We loved hearing the stories of the area, especially the touching story behind the two beautiful trees planted side by side. (I won’t spoil it here—you’ll have to hear it from Stephen himself!) We had a wonderful time and cannot recommend this tour enough. Thank you, Stephen and Rosa, for such a memorable day—and yes, Stephen definitely remembered to shake the hot chocolate!
Experience the nighttime glow worm tour!
VAtourer,Feb 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Highly recommend. We did both the Explore the lakes tour and the nighttime glow worm tour on the same day. The owner/guide was excellent, and the glow worm tour was something to remember for a long time - we saw them elsewhere but this was the best experience. Groups are small.
Lakes and springs around Rotorua
christianbS9497RI,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a fantastic time with Stephen, who showed us beutiful places and shared his stories aboutthe area. We recommend this tour very much.
Rotorua must do tour.
B2448SCdanielt,Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An absolutely fantastic and informative tour, that everyone should do when in Rotorua. Thank you, Stephen, for an amazing experience!
Explore the Lakes
T4DKM,Oct 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a wonderful tour we went on this morning in Rotorua with Real Rotorua. Explore the lakes took us away from crowds to see some amazing places. Peaceful & beautiful places with Stephen who was knowledgeable & interesting sharing his obvious passion for the area. Memories from this morning will last a lifetime.
Excellent experience from one Tour Guide to another. Wow
Meander24540777324,Mar 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely worth every cent. Stephen knows all the hidden gems and stories. Learned and experienced many sights and mostly away from the bustling crowds.
Hidden Gems of Rotorura
Heinz K,Mar 2, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00An absolute must do as you get to see and here all about the secret hidden gems away from the crowds. Stephen knowd all these spaces and stories.
Great introduction to Rotorua
BobM450,Feb 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour of the area with ample opportunities to get out and explore the area. We visited four lakes, walked through a grove of redwood trees, and hiked a beautiful path along the river all while learning about the plants, trees, and natural history of the area. Stephen is a very knowledgeable and engaging guide.
From NZ$150.00
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Operated by Real Rotorua