TOUR DESCRIPTION
Rotorua, often called 'Sulphur
City' this town sits on an active fault line and the area's bizarre natural
wonders have fascinated visitors since the 1840's. Home to one-third of the
country's Maori population the town is deeply rooted in tradition and has a
strong sense of Maori community. Disembark the ship in Tauranga and depart by
private vehicle to Rotorua, a journey of approximately seventy minutes.
Your overview begins with
a visit to Rotorua Museum that houses exhibits devoted to the 1886 eruption
of Mt. Tarawera, a nearby dormant volcanic mountain as well as displays of the
heritage of the local Maori Tribe, the Te Arawa. Next a very special and enchanting
Maori cultural experience awaits you. Visit the Whakarewarewa Thermal Village
for an afternoon of exclusive Maori cultural immersion - participate in a Powhiri
(Maori Welcome) and Maori Concert in the company of your Kaumatua (Maori Elder).
Enjoy lunch with your Kaumatua,
learning about the history of the region, the art of weaving and meet the tribe
that inhabits the Whakarewarewa Thermal Village. Visit the Thermal Reserve,
an area of thermal activity that has produced geysers, boiling mud and silica
terraces.
After your day of cultural
immersion, return by private vehicle to the Tauranga Port.
(Suggested) Departure Time(s)
0900 Return Time 1730