Explore some of the hidden sides of Rotorua, renowned for its spiritual importance to Maori as well as its geysers, bubbling mud pools, craters and beautifully mineral deposits. Rotorua boasts many tourist attractions and yet close to the centre you will walk in complete tranquillity in native forests, along wooded riverbanks and past naturally heated lakes where you can bathe at the end of a dayÂ’s walk. Centrally situated accommodation offers a diverse range of eating options nearby and the opportunity to relax and recuperate in the therapeutic hot mineral pools and mud baths.

Sample itinerary:

Sunday
On arrival at Rotorua airport you will be transferred to your accommodation in the city centre. The rest of the day is free to relax by the lake or explore the shops and tourist attractions of this interesting city. In the evening you are free to explore the great range of local restaurants and bistros in Rotorua.

Monday
We take the ferry to the start of the picturesque Tarawera Falls walk. This walk follows a river that actually disappears in front of your very eyes and reappears in the middle of a rock to form a spectacular waterfall where there will be a lunch stop.
On the way back to the ferry there is a chance for a swim in a rock pool and wonderful opportunities to watch powerful waterfalls right beside the track. There is also a chance to bath in the natural hot waters of the lake.

Tuesday
9am start to travel by ferry across to the other side of the lake to do a walk through a valley in the thermal area of Rotorua. The rock colours and the steaming pools make this walk very typical of this region. From the valley we continue up a mountain with views of the impressive Mount Tarawera and the whole thermal area.

Wednesday
Transfer day for Taster Holidays or free day to relax or explore the area for Explorer clients. You can visit the many thermal spas or bubbling mud pools that the area has to offer or you can hire bikes and cycle through town or forest. Trout fishing is popular in the area and easily arranged, as is golf.

Thursday
9am start and a trip round the lakes to the Urewera National Park. This area has some magnificent native forest and provides a great opportunity to explore the vast range of plant species that New Zealand is famous for. Return Rotorua at 5pm.

Friday
9am for a short transfer to some of the smaller lakes in the region which are of considerable spiritual significance to Maori. Pleasant walks on well-formed tracks provide a relaxing end to the week.

Saturday
Your transfer is arranged to coincide with your onward travel.

Explorer Holiday starts Sundays for 6 nights and 4 days guided walking & 1 free day. Taster Holiday starts Sundays/ Wednesdays for 3 nights and 2 days guided walking.