Rainforests & Volcancos

ROTORUA – RAINFORESTS & VOLCANOES (2 days)

Experience the dramatic landscapes and fascinating wildlife of this region of the Central North Island. Known for its still active volcanic “hot spots”, the area also possesses places of cool, tranquil beauty where many rare New Zealand birds make their home.

Day 1: Rotorua – Waimangu + Whirinaki
Depart from Rotorua on a tour designed to reflect the region’s stunning natural diversity. Discover the amazing geo-thermal activity of the Waimangu Volcanic Valley beginning with a nature walk and cruise amidst a spectacular landscape of hot crater lakes, steaming cliffs, hissing fumeroles, colourful silica terraces and rare thermally-adapted plants. Later experience the magnificence of the Whirinaki Rainforest, where the towering 700-800 year old rimu, totara, matai, miro and kahikatea - the ancient giants of New Zealand’s podocarp tree species reach to 65m. Beneath the forest canopy, wonder in awe at the rich diversity of native vegetation and birdlife amidst the rushing rivers and cascading waterfalls.
Walking time: 3 hours - distance 6kms - reasonable level of fitness required

Day 2: Tarawera - Whakarewarewa
Today discover many features of this region’s rich cultural heritage. Walk through historical Ohinemutu Maori Village and visit St Faiths Church. Discover why Maori and later Europeans were attracted to the warm healing waters of a unique thermal area. Learn of the area’s volcanic past including the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption and Maori traditions at the Rotorua Museum. Admire a picturesque waterfall amidst the rainforest and learn of the river’s importance to local Maori people. See stunning panoramas of Lake and Mount Tarawera. The Blue and Green Lakes provide an idyllic setting for lunch. Later learn about the destructive forces of the Mount Tarawera eruption first–hand at Te Wairoa, “the Buried Village” and stroll through the excavated site. Experience the culture of the Maori people and the amazing geothermal activity at the NZ Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and Te Puia, Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve   
Walking time: 3 hours - distance 3kms Fitness - suitable for most levels of fitness.

Notes:
• These tours are designed to suit any age and fitness. Other options available to suit special interests, eg. birdwatching, flora & fauna.
• Suitable gear for all tours: Casual clothes, warm jacket, rain coat, boots or good walking shoes, day pack, camera and plenty of film.
• Tour Includes: All guiding, accommodation (1 night), breakfasts, lunches, entrance fees, NZ Goods & Services Tax [GST, 12.5%).
• Tour Excludes: Evening meals and alcoholic drinks, refreshments or taxis, Rotorua accommodation (before or after tour).
These prices are subject to changes in accommodation prices, GST & road user charges beyond our control.