Te Puia -Te Rā Guided Tour

Overview

Available languages

English

2 hours

Mobile ticket

A day of excitement, culture, kai and connection…

For generations, Te Puia has welcomed manuhiri (visitors) from all over the world to explore the magic hidden within Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley.

Our 90 minute guided tour will bring you face to face with the biggest, naturally active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere Pōhutu Geyser, and enjoy the up-close experience with the New Zealand Kiwi, in our brand-new Kiwi Conservation Centre. Be mesmerized by exploding mud pools all throughout the valley and gaze at beautifully crafted Māori-made artwork and sculptures visible throughout Te Puia.

Watch carvers and weavers demonstrate their skills at the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, and hear our guides share stories passed down from their ancestors. Our wānanga (school) is a lighthouse for indigenous culture, worldwide. We are honoured to open the doors to our wānanga and show you the work of internationally recognised artists.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Highest Geyser and most active Geothermal Valley in the Southern Hemisphere

Professional guide

Explore a Marae and Maori village

Explore our Kiwi Conservation Centre

Wood, Bone & Greenstone carving, flax weaving schools.

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Gratuities

What To Expect

Te Puia

Te Puia is situated in the geothermal valley of Te Whakarewarewa, Rotorua and is a powerful reminder of the earth’s natural force. With remarkable geothermal features including the famous Pōhutu Geyser and rich layers of Māori culture, from the land itself to the artworks, the people, stories, traditions and architecture. There are nature trails teeming with native bird life and you will even find the New Zealand icon, the Kiwi bird on site. The knowledge and passion of our guides is often what makes the Te Puia visitor experience so special. Passing on the knowledge and wisdom handed down from their ancestors carries a special pride. It opens visitors’ eyes to the interconnectedness of life in the Māori world, and touches hearts across cultures.

2 hours•Admission Included

Options

Te Rā Guided Tour

Guided Tour : Guided Tours are available on the hour from 9am, to 4pm. Please specify the timeslot when booking. Check in 15 min prior.

Reviews

4.55

286 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

212

So many to choose from, but this tour was one of the best!
Robert B,
May 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00
As there were a few options in the area for hot springs, I decided to choose this one as it had the cultural experience and I am glad that I did. Our guide, the area and the school were all great to see and hear.
Te Puia is amazing, with a lot to offer
Jessica B,
Apr 20, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Definitely go to Te Puia, accessible by tour, car or public bus. The mud pools and geysers are quite astounding and the kiwi centre is just beautiful. the guides are really interesting and helpful and show how people can live authentically.
It is interesting to...
Hao Z,
Apr 12, 2025
- Viator
4.00
It is interesting to learn Mori culture and seeing Kiwi bird. The main geyser didn't erupt when we were there that is disappointed. If I knew no guarantee to see it I would not go since the ticket is expensive. Self guided tour is better for this place.
Te Puia
Nicola H,
Mar 24, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Te Puia was a great day out and well worth the money paid. We saw Kiwis up close and the geyser turned up on time while we were there. Our guide was very knowledgeable and had many stories to tell.
Interesting, educational...
James P,
Mar 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Interesting, educational walk through with a guide. Definitely worth the trip! We got to see a greeting ceremony and watch local artists carving.