coach tour of rotorua

Rotorua Day Tours

A geothermal wonderland of boiling mud pools and spectacular geysers awaits visitors to Rotorua, a dream spot for sightseeing and a region steeped in Māori legend, history and culture. Its landscape is a mix of lush fields that support a thriving agricultural industry and beautiful lakes, and it seems everywhere steam rises from the ground, hinting at the active world beneath.

Marvel at the natural wonders of Te Puia and explore its thermal valley of geysers, streams of boiling water and hot mud pools. Get an insight into Māori culture through performance and traditional carving, weaving and art all created on site. The Agrodome is one of New Zealand’s most loved attractions and is a fun window into farming culture with a sheep show, shearing and dog trials. Native flora and fauna is on display at Rainbow Springs Nature Park, including New Zealand’s national icon, the kiwi, where a special Kiwi Encounter lets visitors see the nursery and hatchery for these endangered birds.

Take a day tour from Rotorua and visit Matamata to see where movie magic was made with a Hobbiton Movie Set Tour , or choose from our Waitomo Caves tours to marvel at the incredible limestone formations and enjoy a boat ride through the glowworm grotto.

3 Day Tours to experience

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour From Rotorua

• 6 hours 30 minutes
• See Hobbiton, and Lunch in the Party Marquee
• Complimentary hotel pick up/drop off available

from $ 228 NZD

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (Rotorua to Auckland)

• 7 hours 30 minutes
• Hobbiton guided tour and lunch
• Free Wi Fi on board coaches

Hobbiton & Te Pō Day Tour From Rotorua

• 12 hours 15 minutes
• Guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set
• Unique Indigenous Experience at Te Puia

from $ 469 NZD

Free cancellation

You'll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 2 hours in advance of your tour experience.

New Zealand Tours

• City Sightseeing
• Nature & Wildlife
• Lord of the Rings
• Dolphin Watching
• Food & Wine
• Glowworm Cave
• Flightseeing
• Tours from Auckland
• Tours from Christchurch
• Tours from Rotorua

Destinations

• Bay of Islands Tours
• Auckland Tours
• Rotorua Tours
• Waitomo Tours
• Hobbiton Tours
• Wellington Tours
• Christchurch Tours
• Mt Cook Tours
• Queenstown Tours
• West Coast Tours
• Milford Sound Tours

Travel Info

• Our Drivers
• Our Coaches
• Hotel Transfers
• Tour Commentary
• Accommodation

Rotorua Tours & Trips

• Choose from 18 Rotorua tours
• 200+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best Rotorua tour packages

Compiled by

Melissa Rotorua travel expert at TourRadar

3 Day Best of Central Attractions

2 days waitomo caves, hobbiton movie set & rotorua tour from auckland, auckland explorer new zealand city stay, northern voyager, new zealand: best of the north island, coasts & culture tour, new zealand: sun and steam (6 days), highlights in new zealand north island escorted coach tour, coasts & culture tour in reverse, new zealand panorama (7 days).

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year
• Enjoy a traditional Maori performance
• Marvel at the Wai-O-Tapu thermal reserve
• Release your inner Gandalf with a trip to Hobbiton

“Overall was good but there were quite signifficant waiting time in between activities.”

• Venture to the Agrodome and see its legendary show
• Admire the Te Puia Maori Arts & Crafts in Rotorua
• Bask in the mystical wonder of the Waitomo Caves

“From initial booking to updates throughout, the assistance I received was absolutely flawless.”

• Tour Auckland's top sites in half a day
• Walk through historical Auckland Downtown
• Explore Auckland's iconic Sky Tower

• Sightseeing
• Traverse the world-famous Tongariro Crossing, voted the best one-day hike in New Zealand.
• Venture through the gateway to Narnia to picturesque views of Cathedral Cove on the Coromandel Coast.
• Discover the enchanting Waitomo glowworm caves by foot or by tubing.

“This was a great tour, comfy bus, super fun activities.”

• Learn to surf at a famous beach
• Explore glow worm caves in Waitomo
• Kayak to hidden spots in Raglan

“Definitely recommend to anyone looking for a holiday full of experiences.”

• Enjoy the best of Wellington
• Hike the famous Tongariro Crossing
• Go whitewater rafting down Kaituna River

“The hostels can be harsh, but you get to experience NZ in such a unique way that makes it all worthwhile.”

• Check out Whangarei and Kawakawas famous Hundertwasser toilets
• See bubbling geothermal mud pools whilst in Rotorua
• Enjoy a traditional Maori cultural performance and Hangi dinner

“It was f******** amazing.”

• Meet your guide and group in Auckland
• Experience Maori culture in Rotorua
• Enjoy a local farm lunch in Waikato

“Hotels could have been better. Tour guide, driver and sights weee excellent.”

• Skydive or bungee jump over Lake Taupo
• Go on a hard but rewarding hike around Tongariro
• Fall in love with the capital of New Zealand

“Activities and experiencing the culture was amazing. Loved sailing on Lake Taupo and Kayaking and Bush Walks.”

• Explore Queenstown's vibrant lakefront
• Experience farm life at Real Country
• Cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard TSS Earnslaw

Discover TourRadar

See reviews Enquire now

Email: [email protected]

• The Rotorua Discovery Itinerary

• New Zealand Group Coach & Bus Tours
• New Zealand Independent Coach Tours
• Rotorua Discovery Tour

Tour Overview

Day by Day Itinerary

Auckland - waitomo caves - rotorua.

After an early departure from Auckland you will be travelling to the amazing Waitomo Caves .

Waitomo – the name coming from the Maori words wai (water) and tomo (hole) is home to an astonishing landscape. Hidden under the green hills of Waitomo lies a labyrinth of caves, sinkholes and underground rivers. The caves were carved by underground streams pushing through soft limestone over thousands of years.

Tour the amazing limestone caverns and sail through the still waters of the sparkling Waitomo Glow Worm Grotto - with plenty of time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness - intensifying the effect of thousands of softly shining glow worms.

Later, travel on to Rotorua, the cultural centre of New Zealand.

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 Nights

Explore Rotorua

Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour around three of Rotorua’s iconic visitor attractions. Experience Te Puia , a place of Maori culture and a thermal wonderland of impressive geysers and boiling mud pools.

Explore Rainbow Springs Nature Park . Here you’ll discover the beauty of the native bush, ferns and trees that grow around the crystal clear mineral springs and take a ‘behind the scenes’ tour through a working kiwi nursery and hatchery. Then enjoy a demonstration of New Zealand’s agricultural industry with a sheep shearing display and sheep dog trials at the Agrodome Farm Show .

Tonight experience a Maori Cultural Evening . Enjoy culture, history and scrumptious food awaits you at a local marae. Learn about Maori art forms and traditions, followed by a concert featuring local performers. Then experience an authentic Maori Hangi meal, steamed underground in the traditional way.

Free Time Rotorua - Auckland

Enjoy some free time in Rotorua this morning.  Recommended excursions in and around Rotorua:

Your coach leaves for Auckland late afternoon. Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Bon Voyage!

Homeward Bound"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

Today we say farewell to newfound friends. We take care of your transfer to Auckland Airport where you will board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday.

Essential information you need to know before travelling to New Zealand. Download for free - simply complete the details below to download.

Free Customisable NZ Holiday Itinerary

Pricing terms.

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price

Waitomo, Rotorua and Hobbiton 3 day tour

This 3 day tour begins in Auckland and is enjoyed from the comfort of an escorted mini-bus. Travel through the stunning countryside before enjoying a fully guided tour of Waitomo Caves and Te Puia Geothermal Park. A true highlight is the guided tour through the filming locations of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit. See New Zealand's most awarded cultural attraction Te Pā Tū at the Tamaki Maori Village and indulge in the history and traditions. Scroll down and read the full itinerary below to see how this action packed tour would suit you or contact our team of NZ Travel Specialists  to customise. 

Tour overview

Departs every day - flexible independent travel

This suggested tour costs from NZD$1,550 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Auckland

3 days/2 nights

  Customisable? YES

  Viewed 416 times in the last 7 days

We can customize this tour suggestion to suit you perfectly. Add more time in favourite locations, stay in different accommodations, experience activities that interest you - we can arrange it all. Just get in touch to get your Tailor-Made itinerary

Day 1 - You will be taken on an adventure to Hobbiton and Waitomo caves

Take a journey through the heart of the Central North Island, taking in the Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set on a full-day sightseeing tour. Setting off from Auckland, travel through the lush farmland of the Waikato and King Country regions, enjoying your driver guide’s entertaining and informative commentary. At the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, take a guided tour through impressive underground caverns and learn how stalactites, stalagmites and other limestone structures were formed over millions of years. Your tour includes a boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto – glide silently along an underground river as you gaze at the twinkling glowworms overhead. Then, travel to Matamata, take a guided tour of the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, located inside a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep and beef farm. Here, the village of Hobbiton was carefully created in amazing detail as a film location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie trilogies. During your guided tour of this amazing location you’ll see sights like Hobbit holes, the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn, and learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth. The tour includes a picnic lunch. After visiting Waitomo and Hobbiton, continue to Rotorua.

Your accommodation: Silver Fern Suites & Spa

Back to top

Day 2 - Enjoy ziplining action in the morning, and cultural experience and dinner in Maori village in the evening

Embark on a three hour adventure through native New Zealand forest. Journey through the beautiful forest canopy via an incredible network of trails, tree platforms, Ziplines and swing bridges. See breathtaking views of the woodland valleys and hills as you fly through tight openings in the trees. In between the thrill of the ziplines and suspended tree bridges, your guides will share their passion and knowledge for the forest and the conservation challenges to preserve it. 

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information see here .

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

This comprehensive 1-hour guided experience is a truly unique opportunity to learn about the world-renowned kiwi hatchery conservation program. You are invited to step ‘behind the glass’ for an immersive experience to join the hatchery team in a staff-only area to learn about the incubation and chick rearing techniques from global experts. Learn all about New Zealand’s intriguing national icon and the efforts of the kiwi husbandry team, see and discover what it takes to hatch and rare chicks, and if you’re lucky, see baby chicks in person! Afterwards, take more time to learn in the interactive kiwi burrow and see adult kiwi roam and forage in our purpose-built Nocturnal house.

Day 3 - This morning explore volcanic and geothermal Rotorua before traveling back to Auckland

See it all, the ultimate volcanic and geothermal Rotorua Tour. Learn about the huge colourful hot springs, erupting geysers and active boiling mud pools, spectacular volcanoes and lush native forest. All on a fully guided 1/2 day tour in Rotorua. You'll travel through forestry and farmland to NZ's largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at Wai-o-tapu. Then see the Lady Knox geyser erupt. Next a short drive to the Waimangu Volcanic valley where your guide will explain the Mt Tarawera eruption which blew open this spectacular, bush covered, geothermal park.

The drive from Rotorua to Auckland takes you through the heart of the Waikato and its rich agricultural land. Along New Zealand's longest river, the Waikato. A little further than Hamilton is Auckland City, New Zealand's largest, spread over approximately 60 square kilometres. From the vibrant and trendy fashion and cuisine found in Ponsonby and Parnell to the breathtaking native bush and beaches of the West Coast, Auckland is full of life and the opportunities to explore are endless.

Day 2 - Behind the scenes exclusive tour with National Kiwi Hatchery NZD$0

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

NOTE: Quotes are subject to the availability of specific accommodations and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on today's exchange rate and are subject to change. Terms and Conditions apply.

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any accommodation style or customise it to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

See our privacy policy here

Bay of Islands 3 Day Leisurely

3 days, from Auckland to Auckland

Bay of Islands 3 Day Tour

Bay of Islands Escape

• South Island Self Drive
• North Island Self Drive
• Both Islands Self Drive
• Lord of the Rings Self Drive
• Motorhome Rental Packages
• Self Drive Walking Holidays
• Terms and Conditions
• Ski and Snow Tours
• Adventure Tours
• Hiking Tours
• Kayaking and Canoeing
• Rafting Tours
• Cave Adventures
• Fishing Charters
• Horse Trekking Tours
• Surfing Holidays
• Great Walks
• North Island Guided Walks
• South Island Guided Walks
• Kiwi Style Hiking
• Independent Walks
• Grades and Fitness
• Bay of Islands
• Coromandel Peninsula
• Christchurch
• Fox Glacier
• Franz Josef
• Hanmer Springs
• Holiday Parks/Powered Motorhome Sites
• Auckland International Airport
• Hamilton Airport
• Napier Airport
• New Plymouth Airport
• Palmerston North Airport
• Tauranga Airport
• Wellington Airport
• Blenheim Airport
• Christchurch Airport
• Invercargill Airport
• Nelson Airport
• Picton Ferry Terminal
• Escorted Coach and Rail Tours
• Independent Coach Tours
• Private Tours
• Train and Rail Journeys
• Cruise Ship Excursions
• Discovery Cruises
• Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruises
• Milford Sound Overnight Cruises
• Hauraki Gulf Overnight Cruise
• North Island
• South Island
• Lord of the Rings/Hobbit Day Tours
• Adventure Day Tours
• Food and Wine
• Maori Culture Day Tours
• Photography Tours
• Cycling Holidays
• Hiking Holidays
• Horse Riding Holidays
• Self Drive Holidays
• Snow and Ski Holidays
• Motorhome Rental
• Airport Shuttles
• New Zealand Train Journeys
• Auckland New Zealand
• Bay of Plenty
• The Coromandel
• Tongariro National Park

Waitomo Caves

• Fiordland National Park
• Franz Josef Glacier
• Marlborough
• Mt Cook - Aoraki
• Stewart Island
• Or maybe you'd like to:
• View Sitemap
• Contact Go NZ

5 Day Waitomo, Rotorua and Hobbiton Independent Coach Tour

Pricing From $2350

Independent Coach Tours, using nationwide bus services, daily departures

Route : Auckland - Rotorua - Auckland

Start: Auckland

Finish: Auckland

• Private Transfer Auckland Airport to Auckland accommodation

Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves and Te Puia Small Group Tour

• Eco Thermal Park - Geothermal Rotorua Tour
• Te Pa Tu Evening Maori Cultural Experience

Rotorua to Auckland via Hobbiton Movie Set

• Private Transfer Auckland accommodation to Auckland Airport
• Meals included: 1 lunch, 1 dinner

PRICE PER PERSON (TWIN SHARE)

• Motel Accommodation: from NZ$2,350*

* PLEASE NOTE

Prices are estimates only, and are subject to availability and exchange rates when booking, seasonal or holiday price surcharges (such as Christmas/New Year and Easter); as well as special events that may be on. Please forward a request and we will be happy to forward a quote.

• Deposit: 20% of the package cost or NZ$250 per person (whichever is the greater) at time of booking
• Full Payment: 45 Days before travel
• Airfares (if applicable): Paid in full at the time of booking

Cancellation Charges

• Cancellation Fees up to 100% can apply after booking. Extra deposits or full payment may be requested to cover these charges prior to booking

Hobbiton Movie Set

Pohutu Geyser, Te Puia, Rotorua

Arrive into Auckland, transfer to your accommodation and rest of day at leisure

Private Transfer Auckland Airport to Auckland Accommodation You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

Welcome to Auckland Auckland, New Zealand's self-proclaimed "City of Sails" is the country's largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests, and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or get out onto the water to experience the best views of the city.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Harbour Dinner Cruise with Explore This unique on-water dining experience is not to be missed while you're in Auckland. Enjoy smooth sailing on the Waitemata Harbour - then watch this photogenic city come alive with twinkling lights. Enjoy your meal as you sail around the beautiful Auckland Harbour taking in the view as the sun slowly sets. You'll be treated to canapes and a drink as you set off towards Westhaven Marina. Choose between dining in the downstairs cabin or on deck to take in the iconic sights of the Auckland Harbour. To finish the evening off, savour your dessert course as you leisurely sail back to Auckland's vibrant Viaduct Harbour.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - All Blacks Experience See what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. Experience first-hand the excitement and emotion of game day. Discover the stories behind some of world rugby’s most famous players, moments and matches. This guided experience introduces you to the game of rugby before being lead through state-of-the-art displays combining sound, images, interactive technology and hands-on activities. Discover New Zealand’s deep passion for our national sport, experience the full force of the All Blacks haka, tackle interactive zones where you can try out your kicking, catching, line-out and accuracy skills against legendary All Blacks.

On this tour, you will be picked up from the hotel in a comfortable mini-bus and driven through the stunning Waikato countryside on a fully guided journey to Waitomo Caves and Te Puia Geothermal Park.

During the journey to Waitomo, you will encounter New Zealand's longest river, beautiful mountains, and see several different farm animals along the way. Once in Waitomo, you will explore the ancient and amazing caves, with their many different cave formations including Stalactites, Stalagmites, and Lime Columns, before descending even further underground for your glowworm experience. Board your glowworm boat for a cruise on the grotto river with thousands of glowworms glittering above your head. Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must-see for any traveller. Arriving at your second feature destination, Te Puia, you will receive a fully guided tour to best experience the geothermal and cultural wonders including Pōhutu Geyser, Māori Architecture, The National Māori Arts School, geothermal craters, geothermal events, and even the chance to view a Kiwi bird in the Kiwi viewing house. Continue your adventure with another fully guided journey south to Rotorua, with many more attractions to see along the way, including hydro dams, rivers, and lots more animals. Once in Rotorua, you will be guided past many of its famous and historical sites, including Lake Rotorua, The Government Gardens, Blue Baths, Thermal Springs, and Polynesian Spa.

This morning, explore Wai-O-Tapu, with free time this afternoon before heading to Tamaki Maori Village this evening

Eco Thermal Park - Geothermal Rotorua Tour See it all, the ultimate volcanic and geothermal Rotorua Tour. Learn about the huge colourful hot springs, erupting geysers and active boiling mud pools, spectacular volcanoes and lush native forest. All on a fully guided 1/2 day tour in Rotorua. Departing daily you'll travel through forestry and farmland to NZ’s largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at Wai-o-tapu. Then see the Lady Knox geyser erupt. Next a short drive to the Waimangu Volcanic valley where your guide will explain the Mt Tarawera eruption which blew open this spectacular, bush covered, geothermal park.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Polynesian Spa Deluxe Lake Spa Rotorua's Polynesian Spa offers a unique thermal spa experience on the shore of Lake Rotorua. You'll enjoy tranquil bathing and lake views in four shallow alkaline rock pools, each with different temperatures (36˚C to 42˚C). Here you are surrounded by revitalising native New Zealand flora, natural rocks, the sound of two waterfalls and a grotto. The pools are filled with soothing alkaline mineral water leaving your skin soft and supple. Relax in the outdoor relaxation area overlooking the four hot mineral pools and Lake Rotorua, here you can further unwind on the five geothermally heated recliners set in the stunning backdrop of New Zealand's lush and natural greenery. A large indoor relaxation lounge also overlooks Lake Rotorua, whereas a Lake Spa guest, you are welcome to move from the pools to the lounge once dried off and return to bathe in the Lake Spa pools as you wish. The Lake Spa is a unique thermal pool environment, where the atmosphere changes from day to night, and from winter steam to summer sparkle.

Te Pā Tū Evening Maori Cultural Experience New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, Tamaki Māori Village presents TE PĀ TŪ. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) –blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

Experience the wonder of Hobbiton Movie Set, before continuing onto Auckland

Departing from Rotorua in the morning, this is a wonderful way to get to Auckland and include a magical journey through Middle-earth to the Hobbiton Movie Set from "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films. On arrival at Shire's Rest you embark on your Hobbiton movie set tour. You will get to see 44 hobbit holes, the Mill and double arch bridge, the party tree and visit the Green Dragon Inn (where a complimentary beer, cider or ginger ale is included). At this stunning location you can take a photo at the door of Bilbo's house, Bag End and look out over the whole of Hobbiton to the hills in the distance.

Following the Hobbiton tour, enjoy lunch at either Shire's Rest or in the marquee beside the Green Dragon Inn. After lunch, there is time for some shopping before you leave to drive north through lush Waikato dairy farms and over the Bombay Hills arriving in Auckland where you will be transferred to your inner-city accommodation.

You will be collected from your Auckland hotel and transferred to the airport to meet your departing flight.

Enquire Now!

Similar Tours

• © 2024 Go New Zealand

Website by Bam Creative

Book now, pay later No credit card required

Fields marked with * are required

Please add the ages of the children and infants travelling with you. Ages would be at time of travel. Add ages for children (2-17 years) and infants (1 - 24 months) separated by a comma. Eg. 5, 7, 10

Your Details

Available options.

Please select the primary option first. Following that choice, if there are any secondary options available please select one of them.

Other Passengers

Please list the full name(s) of each passenger travelling with you.

General Information

Please specify if you wish to include any tour options or extra days & if you have any special requirements. e.g dietary, physical, medical; and (if available) advise arrival and departure flight details in New Zealand.

Send Booking Enquiry

Start Your Holiday

Self-Drive Holidays

Adventure Holidays

Book Accommodation

Book Car Rental

Book Campervan Hire

Coach, Train & Rail Touring

Cruise Holidays

Family Holidays

About Blog Explore NZ

Search Tours

North Island Waitomo, Rotorua and Napier Experience

Journey through the heart of the North Island on this tour from Auckland to the capital city of Wellington, and catch the Northern Explorer Scenic Train back to Auckland. Highlights along the way include Waitomo Caves, the unique Maori culture and the art deco city of Napier.

Quick Itinerary Details

New Zealand Independent Tour

This suggested tour costs from NZD$2,020 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Auckland

4 days/3 nights

Hotel 4 star

  Customisable? YES

  Viewed 326 times in the last 7 days

Travel from Auckland and visit Waitomo Caves on the way to Rotorua. This tour covers the most iconic destinations in the Northern island. You will visit Rotorua which is famous both for its thermal activity and its rich Maori Heritage. In addition, you will enjoy guided tour in the world renowned Waitomo Glow worm Caves and geothermal wonderland Te Puia. Your tour will finish in Rotorua.

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

Your accommodation: Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Back to top

You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to Rotorua Intercity Coach Depot.

From Rotorua you travel along the geothermal highway and past the edge of the largest man-made radiate pine forest in the world - the Kaingaroa Forest towards Taupō. Your coach travels past Taupō which sits on the shores of New Zealand's largest lake, Lake Taupō. From Taupō you'll travel over the Ahiminawa Ranges to Napier. Napier has the highest concentrations of Striped Classical, Spanish Mission and Art Deco building styles in the world. The commercial centre was completely rebuilt following a catastrophic earthquake in 1931. Napier is also at the centre of one of the largest and most vibrant wine-producing areas in New Zealand.

There are some excellent walks in and around the Hawkes Bay region. The information below is provided by the Department of Conservation . Listed below are a selection of short walks but check with the Department of Conservation information centre for weather conditions, track suitability and conditions first.

Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve Tracks Discover Te Ana or Tangoio Falls on a short, easy walk suitable for kids, or take a longer walk through native bush on the Tangoio Walkway. . Distance: 2 - 4.4 km one way. Completion Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on which track you choose. White Pine Bush Scenic Reserve Experience New Zealand's remaining coastal forest on these short, easy walks that are good for children. Distance: 1.6 km loop. Completion Time: 40 minutes. Ahuriri Estuary View a community of wading birds, fish, mud dwellers and aquatic plant life from the estuary track and boardwalk. Over 70 species of resident and migratory waterbirds use the estuary as a feeding and resting area. Distance: 2.8 km one way. Completion Time: 1 hour. Te Mata Park Te Mata Park has a rich human and geological history, and is home to a range of unique plants and native birds. The park has five different walking options varying in difficulty and distance. Distance: 1.3 km - 5.4 km. Completion Time: 40 minutes - 1 hours 15 minutes. Lake Tūtira There are two main walks at Lake Tūtira, a short walk along the edge of the lake or a longer loop through the reserve. Both offer great views of the lake as well as native and introduced plant species. Distance: 1.3 km - 5.4 km. Completion Time: 40 minutes - 1 hours 15 minutes. Cape Kidnappers/Te Kauwae-a-Māui Walking Track Follow the beach from Clifton to Cape Kidnappers/Te Kauwae-a-Māui alongside cliffs that show fragmented fault and tilt lines, recording the gradual rise of New Zealand. Black Reef is the first gannet nesting site, 7.5 km from Clifton. A 1 km climb takes you from the shelter on the beach to a benched area on the hill where you can view the second colony, and spectacular views of Hawke's Bay. Distance: 19 km loop. Completion Time: 5 hour return.

The National Aquarium of New Zealand stretches along Napier’s Marine Parade.  It's home to a wide range of saltwater, freshwater, and land animal exhibits from New Zealand and around the world. Experience, stingrays, living coral, a huge range of fish species, and native wildlife. Visit Penguin Cove and watch the little penguins swim, feed and play. Spot New Zealand native wildlife including the Kiwi and Tuatara.

The National Aquarium of New Zealand stretches along Napier’s Marine Parade.  It's home to a wide range of saltwater, freshwater, and land animal exhibits from New Zealand and around the world. The Aquarium is one of the only places in New Zealand where you can have a Close Encounter with these entertaining little birds. Little Penguins are only found in New Zealand and South Australia. As part of your encounter, you'll also experience what goes on behind the scenes, discovering all about the day-to-day care of these character-filled little birds and taking part in hand-feeding them. Learn about their rescue and rehabilitation and also what you can do to help preserve this special species and their environment. 

Your accommodation: Art Deco Masonic Hotel

This 2 1/2 hour tour takes in all the history, from early settlement, through to the huge 1931 earthquake and the rebuilding of the City to the Art Deco Capital of the World to what it is today. You also visit the historic area of Ahuriri, National Tobacco Building and the famous Mission Estate Winery. As you return to Napier City, you will also tour an Art Deco Housing Estate. Experience many stops for photos from lookouts to famous landmarks etc. This is a compact tour, it is really for those that are spending the one night here in Napier and still wish to see the City highlights.

You will be collected from your Napier accommodation and taken to the Napier Coach Depot. On the way to the Coach Depot, you will be taken on a one-hour tour of Napier.

Leaving the 1930's inspired city of Napier you will travel through the countryside of the Hawke's Bay and Manawatu. Travelling along the Kāpiti Coast line into the capital city of Wellington. Wellington sits on a wonderful deep natural harbour and is surrounded by bush clad hills. The city centre itself is quite compact (only around 1 square kilometre) and exploring on foot is relatively easy. You can easily stroll the famous cafes and restaurants within the city and New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa, is also close by.

Your accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington

The Northern Explorer is a journey through the heart of the North Island, travelling between Wellington, New Zealand's arts and culture capital and Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. Along the way you pass the Central North Island ski towns of National Park and Ohakune. You also see fantastic views of New Zealand farmland, the volcanic plateau, Mount Ruapehu, the world famous Raurimu Spiral, and stunning river gorges - all from panoramic windows or open air viewing decks. All carriages feature large panoramic windows giving sweeping views of the magnificent North Island. The Observation Carriage includes a mix of seating including lounge-style seating. The lounge-style seating is arranged at the very rear of this glass-backed carriage enabling you to enjoy a totally unique Northern Explorer experience.

Fields marked * are mandatory

Day 2 - General Admission to National Aquarium of New Zealand NZD$0

Day 2 - Little Penguin Close Encounter with National Aquarium of New Zealand NZD$0

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

NOTE: Quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and is subject to change.Terms and Conditions apply

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

See our privacy policy and terms here

Bay of Islands Ultimate Tour

Waitomo, Rotorua and Hobbiton 4 Day Package

Bay of Islands Ultimate 4 Day Tour

Auckland to Rotorua

Travel New Zealand on the iconic orange bus from Auckland to Rotorua .  

Stray is a hop-on hop-off guided adventure travel network covering all of New Zealand. We'll take you to all the highlights as well as some great off-the-beaten-track destinations.  Your guide will let you in on local secrets and introduce you to places and activities that will, quite simply, blow you away.  Hop-on Hop-off passes are valid for 12 months so you can create your own itinerary and hop-off anywhere along our route. See more and do more with Stray!

BUS PASSES & TOURS 

Starting in Auckland that visit Rotorua

View all NZ tours

Journey through the stunning Rotorua Lake District

You haven’t seen rotorua until you’ve seen it from a duck.

Rotorua Duck Tours is the first, and still the only company in NZ to provide the unique and exciting opportunity to explore a special part of NZ in an authentic amphibious WWII landing craft.

Rotorua City & Lakes

Experience the thrill of riding in New Zealand’s only genuine operating WW2 landing crafts and seeing beautiful scenery en route, it promises to be a real highlight of your time in Rotorua.

• Visit three of Rotorua’s most stunning lakes, with splashdown on two!
• Discover Rotorua’s iconic and historical buildings.
• Travel through a geothermal landscape.
• Be educated and entertained by our hilarious guides.
• Hear about the Duck’s incredible WWII History.
• Fun and engaging for all ages!
• Family rate is for 2 Adults and 2 Children.

More Info Book Now

TARAWERA & Lakes Eco Tour

More laughs , more information with more splashdowns. The Tarawera and Lakes Tour is the best way to experience the Rotorua lakes and learn about the history of the land and people that shaped our area. Loved by young and old for almost two decades.

• Splashdown on three lakes, Learn about six!
• See stunning natural landscapes, incl. the spectacular Lake Tarawera.
• Travel past and learn about Rotorua’s most sacred of lakes – Rotokākahi.
• Hear the history of Tarawera from the base of the volcano.
• A deep and insightful commentary by our entertaining guides.
• Interesting and fun for all ages!
• $1 for every person on this tour goes towards Tree Planting.

GROUPS & EDUCATION

Charter a Duck and customise your own tours!

The Ducks are incredibly flexible when it comes to groups. We can pick you up from inner city locations, we have up to 56 seats available, can partner with other operators for larger groups AND you can basically decide what you want to do on tour. We have had wedding parties, stag and hen do’s, team building, Christmas functions, birthday parties, and more! Contact us and we will come up with a tailor-made tour to meet your needs.

“Highly recommend this tour for families, Shaun was our guide, had so much fun, laughter music and learnt alot about Rotorua Lake District. If you are thinking of doing it - do it you will not regret it.”

A quacking great tour!

See more reviews on Tripadvisor

“The entire experience of booking on iSite, boarding the tour, very friendly and child attentive tour operator Sean, my children ages 12 & 9 loved the entire 2 hours and so did my wife and me. Even the safety drill was conducted so well, the children and adults had a short stint at the wheel in the lakes, made them feel really special. The tour operators choice of music was excellent too. Not a moment was wasted on this lovely journey!”

Family, Fun & Stunning Views of the Lakes of Roturua

“My sister and I took my two kids on a 90 minute tour which included going onto the Blue and Green Lakes. It was so much fun. We had a driver and tour guide that were a lot of laughs. The kids found it so entertaining and there were plenty of facts and info for adults too. Would highly recommend for anyone looking for something different to do.”

Had an absolute blast

“We had an awesome time on our duck boat tour today - with a very entertaining tour guide (Shelly) who kept us laughing... the rain didn't stop us from enjoying ourselves either! Definitely recommend it! Thanks guys :)”

Duck Boat tour

“What a great day we had. Our tour guide Marcus was very knowledgeable on the history of Rotorua. Had a great sense of humour with plenty of laughs, from start to finish, especially with our complimentary duck whistle. If your ever in Rotorua this is definitely a must do tour.”

lots of laughs

“The Duck Tour is a very great opportunity to discover beautiful Rotorua and its surroundings. On a really funny tour we learned a lot and saw amazing landscape and lakes. Very unique because of this really cool vehicle, where else can you drive a duck on your own?! I would highly recommend the Duck to everybody who wants to have a special experience in Rotorua!”

Rotorua from another nice perspective

#ROTORUADUCKTOURS

PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Between Rotorua regional and Auckland international and domestic airports.

PRIVATE TOURS & INSPIRATION

Custom tours or set itineraries to ‘must see’ attractions throughout New Zealand. 

PRIVATE CRUISE SHIP TRANSFERS & SHORE EXCURSIONS

For Auckland & Tauranga ports.

Ready2Roll Tours and Transfers, your Central North Island Private Tours and Transfer service and a Good Kiwi Day Out

Rotorua, hamilton & auckland private tours & transfers, if you are a visitor to rotorua, ready2roll tours and transfers has all of your rotorua transportation needs covered..

For when you arrive and depart, our friendly Rotorua team offers airport transfer charters between Rotorua City & Rotorua Airport as well as Rotorua City to Auckland Airport. Ready2Roll also offers Auckland Airport Transfers to and from Waikato region, Taupo, Hamilton, Tauranga, Whakatane and more!

Whilst you are in Rotorua, our friendly local guides can help you experience the very best of Rotorua because of our custom and ‘super-flexible’ Rotorua Tours.

Our tours are customised and themed for each group based on some firm visitor favourites. You can see a few of our example tours on our Rotorua Tours page. You’ll find our popular Rotorua Highlights Tour, which is great for groups who want to see Rotorua’s top scenic spots. If you’re travelling as a family, our Rotorua Family Day has a little something for everyone and we are happy to customise this to your own family’s needs!

Our friendly tour and transfer service is not only popular with overseas visitors. Ready2Roll Tours and Transfers are frequently the first choice of many kiwi individuals, groups and businesses.

As part of a multi-day experience, we can also whisk you away further afield to see more of New Zealand.

Our Taupo Day Tour is a popular option for guests staying in Rotorua for a few extra days. If you’re looking for a comprehensive guided tour across the North Island of New Zealand, we can also help you plan and transport you everywhere from Cape Reinga at the top of the North Island to Wellington, our capital city.

CONTACT INFO

• Phone: +64 (0)21 258 9887
• Emergency (24hrs): +64 (0)21 258 9856
• Email: [email protected]

PLEASE REVIEW US

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Transfers & tours booked on public holidays attract a 15% surcharge.

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Rotorua Airport Transfers

Rotorua to/from auckland airport, international/domestic airport transfers to central north island , regional airports transfers to/from auckland.

Custom New Zealand Tours

Rotorua – family day, rotorua – highlights tour, spellbound in waitomo tour, taupo day tour, hobbiton tour, rotorua – full (8 hour) day/night tour, auckland – waitomo – hobbiton – rotorua tour , waikato – day tour, hawkes bay – winery tour, waitomo caves tour.

Auckland Cruise Ship Transfers

Tauranga cruise ship transfers, rotorua excursion, auckland highlights tour, hobbiton excursion, waitomo caves excursion – auckland, rotorua highlights tour.

• Things To Do
• Eat & Drink
• Accommodation
• Plan Your Trip
• What's On
• Whakarewarewa Forest Loop
• CityRide Bus Services

• Tours & Transport

Getting around Rotorua by bus is easy, affordable and reliable – just look for the big lime-green CityRide buses.

All buses are wheelchair accessible with super-low floors and ramps.

Current Rotorua fares, in NZD, for 2023:

• Cash (standard one way): $2.80 for adults; $1.70 for children ages 5-15 years old (children under 5 ride free)
• Daysaver: Travel on any CityRide route for $7.00

It helps to have exact change for your fare as it makes boarding quicker and the journey time shorter for the other passengers. If not, please try and carry smaller amounts of money and avoid large notes. Drivers only carry a small amount of change.  

Transfers between buses

When paying with cash:

• Free transfers between buses apply for one hour from ticket purchase.
• The transfer time between buses can be no more than 30 minutes.
• You can only have a maximum of one free transfer per journey.
• You will need to present your ticket when transferring to the next bus.

Use an app to track your bus

Transit App uses real-time GPS data. The app allows you to:

• know when your next bus is arriving;
• see exactly where your bus is in real-time;
• look up future departures and route itineraries; and
• plan your trip.

You might also be interested in...

Rotoiti water shuttles.

Tours & Transport, East

Indulge in a genuine off-the-beaten-track geothermal experience.

Rotorua Airport

With daily direct flights from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, and connecting flights from other cities, Rotorua Airport is proudly the gateway to and from the Central North Island.

Rotorua Duck Tours - Amphibious Sightseeing and Informational Tours

Tours & Transport

Guided sightseeing tours of Rotorua and the lakes region in a WWII amphibious landing craft. Splashdown onto pristine lakes surrounded by beautiful native forests. Rotorua Duck Tours are the perfect introduction to Rotorua’s geothermal and Māori history.

Rotorua Museum: Outside the Walls Historical Government Gardens Tours

Discover Rotorua's rich culture, volatile landscape and legendary figures in this must-do FREE tour around the famous Rotorua Museum and Government Gardens.

By using this website, you automatically accept that we use cookies to personalize your experience. Learn more

Waitomo, Rotorua and Hobbiton 3 day tour

Calling all Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton fans! This is the perfect tour if you would like to indulge in New Zealand's culture as well as seeing the location of the famous films. Starting and finishing in Auckland this action packed 3 day tour will take you to Waitomo Caves, Te Puia, Tamaki Maori Village, Hobbiton Movie Set and Wai-O-Tapu thermal area.

Independent tour (bus & coach)

This suggested tour costs from NZD$1,650 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Auckland

3 days/2 nights

Hotel 3 star

  Customisable? YES

  Viewed 295 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

At a glance - Waitomo, Rotorua and Hobbiton 3 day tour

Day 1 : Auckland to Waitomo Caves to Rotorua Accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua

Day 2 : Day tour to Hobbiton including a movie set tour, then an evening at Tamaki Maori village and dinner Accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua

Day 3 : This morning, explore Wai-O-Tapu, then free time this afternoon before travelling to Auckland early evening

Travel from Auckland and visit Waitomo Caves on the way to Rotorua. This tour covers the most iconic destinations in the Northern island. You will visit Rotorua which is famous both for its thermal activity and its rich Maori Heritage. In addition, you will enjoy guided tour in the world renowned Waitomo Glow worm Caves and geothermal wonderland Te Puia. Your tour will finish in Rotorua.

Your accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua

Take a journey from Rotorua to famous Hobbiton Movie Set, located inside a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep and beef farm near Matamata. Here, take a guided tour of the village of Hobbiton, which was carefully created in amazing detail as a film location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie trilogies. During your guided tour of this amazing location you’ll see sights like Hobbit holes, the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn, and learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth. After exploring Hobbiton, enjoy a tasty lunch in the Party Marquee and then return back to Rotorua.

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

See it all, the ultimate volcanic and geothermal Rotorua Tour. Learn about the huge colourful hot springs, erupting geysers and active boiling mud pools, spectacular volcanoes and lush native forest. All on a fully guided 1/2 day tour in Rotorua. You'll travel through forestry and farmland to NZ's largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at Wai-o-tapu. Then see the Lady Knox geyser erupt. Next a short drive to the Waimangu Volcanic valley where your guide will explain the Mt Tarawera eruption which blew open this spectacular, bush covered, geothermal park.

The drive from Rotorua to Auckland takes you through the heart of the Waikato and its rich agricultural land. Along New Zealand's longest river, the Waikato. A little further than Hamilton is Auckland City, New Zealand's largest, spread over approximately 60 square kilometres. From the vibrant and trendy fashion and cuisine found in Ponsonby and Parnell to the breathtaking native bush and beaches of the West Coast, Auckland is full of life and the opportunities to explore are endless.

Get an Instant Quote or Book this Tour

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within in 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

Your quote for this tour:

Total cost for all guests on this tour package is:.

NOTE: Quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and is subject to change.Terms and Conditions apply

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

See our privacy policy here

Some similar tours to this one

Bay of islands 3 day tour, hobbiton, rotorua and geothermal 3 day experience.

© Copyright 2024 Discover New Zealand | [email protected]