Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Valley, & Hot River
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Standard tour times 10:00am - 4:00pm (we will confirm with you prior).
Sculptured out of volcanic activity and thousands of years in the making, Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland is considered to be New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse geothermal sightseeing attraction. You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape – the key to what you see lies below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18-sq. km.
TIME PERMITTING WE WILL MAKE VARIOUS OTHER STOPS AT LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Comfortable footwear is recommended
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
This will be a very colorful day to remember so have your cameras charged and ready… As we depart Tauranga, our journey through to Wai-o-tapu will take approx 1.5 hrs, so sit back and enjoy the ride, snacks and soft drinks (all inclusive) as you take in the beautiful Aotearoa scenery. Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland, is named as "One of the 20 Most Surreal Places in the World" Thousands of years in the making. Unique features include the world famous Champagne Pool naturally coloured springs, bubbling mud, steaming ground, expansive vistas, huge volcanic craters and sinter terrace formations. The Lady Knox Geyser erupts daily at 10.15am to heights of up to 20meters. The Visitor Centre has a wide range of souvenirs and a cafe where you can purchase food, drinks etc. On our leisurely drive back to your ship, you will have time to peruse the many photos from your day full of glorious colour. We will have you back at your ship at the Port of Tauranga 2 hrs prior to your sailing time.
Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest
TIME PERMITTING ONLY: Known to locals simply as ‘The Redwoods’, the 55,000ha Whakarewarewa Forest is a playground for mountain bikers, walkers, hikers and horse riders set amongst magnificent stands of towering Californian Redwoods, lush native forest and exotic trees. The Redwood Memorial Grove was planted in 1901, dedicated to the memory of the men of the New Zealand Forest Service who dies in the two World Wars. These iconic trees tower above you at approximately 67 metres (219 feet) tall providing incredible photo opportunities. This easy short walk also features a boardwalk over an old thermal pond, home to unique aquatic plant life.
What‘s Included
Bottled water
Snacks
Guide
Lunch
Options
Wai-o-tapu Incl Glowworm Cave
Redwoods Glowworms Cave: Prepare to be enchanted by our newest attraction – a breathtakingly beautiful 70-metre eco cave with 1000s of real glowworms
Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Valley, & Hot River
Reviews
7 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
So much to see
Tammy G,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00There were two of us booked on this small group tour, however were changed to another tour company (A Day in the Bay) due to no others being booked. We were very happy with the new tour provider as Meg our tour guide was amazing. She was knowledgeable, friendly, professional and extremely funny. The tour exceeded our expectations. We saw so much in such a small amount of time. The Redwood Forest was excellent. We paid an additional $42 to walk in the treetops. The geothermal springs and geyser were exceptional. Definitely worth visiting. An excellent tour, exceptional guide (Meg) and a great day exploring the region.
Suboptimal
stefanltje,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
2.00Unfortunately, the trip was disappointing overall, even if Wai-O-Tapu itself is absolutely worth seeing. According to the description, you should look for a woman with green shoes outside the port exit – but no one was there. After requests we were sent to Tino Pai Tours behind the port exit. Although there was someone standing there wearing a company T-shirt who said he was our driver, we were accused of running too far, although the instructions were unclear. The minibus was very cramped and uncomfortable. With the air conditioning on, the driver could hardly understand, without air conditioning it was extremely hot – like in a sauna. In addition, the driver spoke very quickly and vaguely, so I understood almost nothing. It was particularly disappointing that programme items such as Sulphur Point and the Government Gardens were completely omitted. The driver simply asked briefly if he could continue without explaining that these were official program items and that we had actually about 30 minutes to explore there. Too bad, because Wai-O-Tapu is really impressive in the landscape and absolutely worth a visit – but unfortunately the organization and execution of this trip did not do it justice.
We spend a very nice day with geothermal park and other activities
Dmitrii O,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We really enjoyed this day visiting a center of Nothern New Zealand island wirh geothermal valley, Rotorua lake and Redwoods. Mud lakes with bubbles are funny, and a view of pine forests mixed with palms will always stay with us! Special thanks to our guide Greg for his care, patience and sense of humor! :)
Nice geothermal park tour
Sheri H,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Nice geothermal park tour. 1 hr 20 minute drive through the countryside to get there but worth it. Park had nice signage and walking trails
Surreal lake
Fei W,Dec 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Worth place to visit , great experience with lakes which is surreal. Driver is nice and the transport vehicle is comfortable.
Great tour
Sharon P,Dec 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great guide lots to see very enjoyable Thermal park was amazing Saw glow worms too The van was comfortable Kids had a blast
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Operated by Tino Pai Tours