BEST OF BOTH: Te Puia, Rotorua & Hell's Gate Mud Spa Ex Auckland
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour delivers the true “best of both worlds” by combining Rotorua’s most iconic cultural and geothermal attraction with its most unique wellness experience, all in one seamless day trip from Auckland.
At Te Puia, guests explore the dramatic Geothermal Valley, see the powerful Pōhutu Geyser in action, walk among steaming vents and bubbling mud pools, and gain meaningful insight into heritage at the Māori Arts & Crafts Institute. A traditional cultural hka performance bringing stories, and songs to life in an authentic setting.
The journey then shifts from discovery to relaxation at Hell’s Gate, NZ’s most famous geothermal mud spa. Here, travellers soak in mineral-rich sulphur waters and enjoy a rejuvenating mud bath long valued for its natural skin and wellness benefits. Few experiences combine culture, nature, geothermal wonders, and therapeutic spa time in a single day — making this tour both enriching and revitalising, not just sightseeing but a full Rotorua experience.
Available options
BEST OF BOTH: Te Puia, Rotorua & Hell's Gate Mud Spa Ex Auckland
Pickup included
What's included
Admission fee
English Speaking Tour Guide
Per person
Detailed itinerary
1
Easy pickup's from all major hotels from Auckland CBD. Pickup beings from 5:45 AM.
Scenic drive to Ruakura / Tirau for a brief coffee stop for 15 minutes, and continue the journey to Rotorua.
2
Stop 2
Te Rā Experience – Te Puia’s Signature Day Visit
Step into the heart of Rotorua’s geothermal valley and living Māori culture. The Te Rā experience takes you through the spectacular Te Puia Thermal Valley, where you’ll witness the mighty Pōhutu Geyser erupting, steaming vents, and bubbling mud pools surrounded by native bush. You’ll also visit the Kiwi Conservation Centre and the prestigious NZ Māori Arts & Crafts Institute, where master carvers, weavers keep ancient traditions alive. It’s a perfect blend of natural wonders, heritage, and storytelling in one unforgettable visit.
Haka Cultural Performance
Feel the power, pride, and passion of Māori culture come alive. Inside Te Puia’s beautifully carved meeting house, performers present traditional waiata (songs), poi dance, stick games, and the world-famous haka war dance. This high-energy performance offers an authentic and moving connection to Aotearoa’s indigenous heritage and is often the cultural highlight of any Rotorua visit.
3
Stop 3
Hell’s Gate Mud Spa.
Discover New Zealand’s most unique geothermal spa at Hell’s Gate, Rotorua’s famous thermal reserve known for its healing mud and mineral-rich waters. Set in an active geothermal landscape of steaming cliffs, hot waterfalls, and bubbling pools, this experience lets you soak in warm sulphur spas and enjoy a rejuvenating full-body mud bath used for centuries by local Māori for its therapeutic benefits. The natural minerals help cleanse, exfoliate, and relax the body while the surrounding geothermal scenery creates a truly otherworldly atmosphere. After the mud bath, cool off in the plunge pool and leave feeling refreshed, revitalised, and glowing.
4
From Hell's Gate, we head back to Auckland CBD via Tirau, a charming rural township known as New Zealand’s “corrugated iron capital,” famous for its quirky animal-shaped buildings, boutique gift shops, and cosy cafés. It’s a popular stop between Auckland and Rotorua, offering a relaxed country vibe and great photo opportunities. On the way back, we will drop off our friendly tourists at the Airport Transfer, and Airport hotels.
What's not included
Coffee and/or Tea
Lunch
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Traveling time will be approximately 12hrs including the travel, guided tour, attraction and sight seeing
Important notes
Our guides will help in the tickets redemption if required. Or else, it quite straight forward just have to do the redemption at the reception just before entry.
About Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, known for its stunning harbor, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant multicultural scene. With over 50 trails and 22 islands, it's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Auckland Sky Tower
The Sky Tower is Auckland's tallest structure, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
Architecture
1-2 hours
NZD 39 for observation deck, NZD 189 for SkyJump
Auckland War Memorial Museum
This museum offers a comprehensive look at New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment.
Museum
2-3 hours
NZD 25 for adults, free for children under 15
Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.
Nature
Full day
Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way
Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Adventure
Half day
Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way
Auckland Zoo
Auckland Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals and offers educational programs and conservation efforts.
Family
2-3 hours
NZD 30 for adults, NZD 18 for children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hāngī
A traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Meats and vegetables are cooked slowly in the earth oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor.
Dinner
Contains meat, can be vegetarian if requested
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Dessert
Gluten-free, can be made vegan
Fish and Chips
A classic New Zealand takeaway food, featuring fresh fish (usually snapper or tarakihi) and chips, often served with tartare sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, can be gluten-free if requested
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Skydiving
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Maori cultural performances
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events. It's perfect for beach activities and hiking.
20-25°C
68-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Auckland is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Auckland Airport • 21 km south of the city center
By train
Auckland Railway Station
By bus
Auckland Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Auckland. The network includes local, frequent, and express services.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Ola
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
CBD (Central Business District)
Ponsonby
Devonport
Mission Bay
Day trips
Waiheke Island
35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Full day
Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Rangitoto Island
25 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Half day
Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Hobbiton Movie Set
2.5 hours by car from Auckland • Full day
The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist attraction featuring the filming locations from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.
Festivals
Auckland Arts Festival • March
Auckland Diwali Festival • October/November
Auckland Pride Festival • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performances.
- Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day trip, and book a wine tour in advance to ensure availability.
- Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting the La Cigale French Market or the Auckland Night Markets.
- Hike up to the summit of Rangitoto Island for stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
- Use the AT HOP card for easy and discounted public transport fares.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
