As well as the fantastic rides New Zealand has to offer you may also like to participate in some of our other great tourist activities. Some of these can be incorporated into travel legs of the tour or alternatively, as many of them are grouped in particular areas, we can spend a little extra time in those areas if you would like.
Most of these activities need to be booked in advance and we can take care of that for you and in some cases get you a discount. Also as some of these activities are weather dependant we can also suggest appropriate alternatives in case of cancellation.
| Jet boating adventures and river site seeing |
 | Taumarunui Jet ToursTaumarunui Jet Tours provides some of New Zealand’s most unique and exciting adventures. From the shorter half hour trip to full day tours, from wet ‘n’ wild to slow and cruisy, we offer a number of flexible options to suit every adventurer. Venture through the most challenging of white water rapids, take in spectacular scenery of both farmland and of the hidden depths of the Whanganui National Park, hearing about the unique history of steamboats and early settlement along the way. |
Hukafalls JetHukafalls Jet in Taupo, offers a unique combination of excitement and natural beauty. A 30-minute thrilling jet boat ride in the hands of a down-to-earth, funny, professional jet boat driver who can make a jet boat do things you would never believe possible. Jet boat to the base of New Zealand's MOST visited natural attraction - the spectacular Huka Falls! Hukafalls Jet in Taupo is the only jet boat company permitted to take you there! |  |
 | Rapids JetSet in the beautiful Aratiatia Scenic Reserve is New Zealand’s best white water jet boat ride, Rapids Jet. Our 35 minute blast guarantees an adrenaline rush! Shoot through a narrow canyon, be exhilarated by spins on crystal clear waters, spot a trout and surf the pressure waves of the awesome Nga Awa Purua rapids. Take time to view the amazing surrounds of Aratiatia Scenic Reserve, and learn about the wildlife and history of the area. |
Cruise Waikato Generations of Maoris knew the Waikato as a capricious and venerated accomplice in survival; generations were buried within sight and sound of the river, which means' flowing water', but the name of the river in full was Waikato-taniwha-rau, 'the flowing water of a hundred water monsters'. And it's on this amazing, natural treasure, that Cruise Waikato launched the 50 pax, Te Awa Kuini ( The River Queen ) on the 25th of Sept, 09. A tasty hangi (food cooked in the traditional Maori manner.) is now available on every cruise, which also include great music, BYO drinks and of course awesome scenery. |  |
 | Blazing PaddlesBlazing Paddles Canoe Adventures offer you the chance to experience some "pink knuckle" excitement on the Whanganui River. The half day trip takes in nearly 40 rapids; some of them up to grade two - but you don't need any experience and our Minnow and Loon kayaks are especially designed for beginners. If desired we can provide wet suits but most people make it through the trip without falling out. For those who want to spend more time on the river, we can provide trips for any number of days up to five days through the magnificent Whanganui National Park, taking in the incredible "Bridge to Nowhere".
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New Zealand RiverjetExperience New Zealand's only jetboat thermal safari with New Zealand Riverjet - combining scenic and thrill jet boating with geothermal wonders. Various jet boat-geothermal combo options are offered including 'The Squeeze' - an unbelievably unique and truly New Zealand escapade. Mix birdlife, farmland, forest, the Tutukau Gorge, trout pools and views of Orakei Korako thermal wonderland - with thrills and jet boat spins. And wade waist deep through a thermally heated bush-edged stream, squeeze through narrow crevasses, clamber over boulders, and swim in a natural waterfall-fed hot pool. Bliss! |  |
| Coastal Activities |
 | Cathedral Cove Kayaking Cathedral Cove is stunning and the best way to experience it is with Cathedral Cove Kayaking's award winning sea kayak tours, small groups, personal service and friendly kiwi guides. Try world famous cappuccinos at Cathedral Cove. Delivering safe & professional tours for 10 years. |
Glass Bottom boat -WhitiangaOur 2hour Glass Bottom Boat tour departs from Whitianga and
costs $85 including snorkeling.All equipment supplied.This tour takes 10
pax.We visit world famous Cathedral Cove, the marine reserve, off shore
islands and sea caves.Penguins, Dolphins and NZ fur seals often frolic
in our waters.
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 | Hahei ExplorerSee it all in 1 hour- Hahei Explorer which
departs from Hahei Beach. This is a fast 5 metre inflatable which visits
all the amazing sea caves on our coastline including Cathedarl Cove.
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Express Tour with Cave CruzerCave Cruzer Express Tour which goes for 1 1/4 hours. This takes in all the local bays and beaches including Lonely
Bay, Cathedral Cove, Gemstone Bay, Shakespeares Cliff, the Marine Reserve,
Cooks Blowhole and the Hole in the Rock out at Poikeki Island. |  |
 | Scenic and Sound Experience with Cave CruzerThis tour goes for 2 1/2 hours and
takes in all the sights of the Express Tour as well as going down to the
Orua Sea Cave, where we go right inside the cave. There is great acoustics
thee so we play some music in there and also carry Conch Shells and
Didgeridos on board so people can make some of their own. All good fun. This
tour also stops for a 20 minute swim/snorkel with the equipment provided. |
| Caving Adventures & Glow Worms |
 | Glow Worm Cave and Ruakuri Cave ComboDeep underground in the heart of the Waikato are a series of unique caves that will take your breath away. Ruakuri Cave is home to swirling rivers, echoing waterfalls, and rocks that flow into delicate shawl-like formations.
Nearby, at the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, thousands of tiny glow worms cling to the cave ceiling, creating a starry sky within the underground night. Youll also see a deep limestone shaft and a soaring subterranean cathedral that will leave you speechless.
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The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company What began as a special treat for a brave few has developed into a spectacular tourism attraction that gives visitors of all ages the chance to abseil, weave, jump, and float through a glow worm-studded subterranean wonderland. With two exhilarating tours, namely Black Labyrinth and Black Abyss, to choose from, there is something to suit all adventurous spirits. |  |
 | TumuTumu ToObing- with Waitomo Adventures Ltd
Blackwater Rafting at its best! See thousands of glow worms, stalactites and all sorts of wonderful rock formations. Walk, wade & swim through the famous TumuTumu Cave.
No prior experience required. Departs daily from the Waitomo Adventure Centre. Dont be fooled! Blackwater rafting is not like white water rafting. It's much gentler and you use car inner tubes not white water rafts.Allow 4 hrs for this trip (approx 2 hrs actually underground).
All blackwater rafting trips at Waitomo include walking & wading as well as swimming & tubing.A wide range of people can do it - even right down to 12 years old. Your wetsuit gives you lots of floatation.You will however get fully wet! |
Haggas Honking Holes - with Waitomo Adventures LtdDo a series of abseils mostly in waterfalls, rockclimbing, spiderwalking and ladders as you explore this crazy beautiful cave. Min age 15 yrs! See stalactites and stalagmites, columns and delicate straws. Even NZ's famous glow worms make an appearance - see them up close & personal. This trip is not for the faint hearted. Participants are brave & fit but you dont need any prior experience. All training & equipment is supplied. There is a very high guide ratio (1:5) and your safety is assured. Nothing else in NZ let alone Waitomo compares to this activity. |  |
 | Lost World 4 Hour - with Waitomo Adventures LtdAbseil 100m into the Lost World tomo (vertical entrance shaft) followed by a dry caving adventure as you explore the gigantic vaults of the Mangapu Cave system. The descent takes around 30 minutes of the total 4 hours required. Abseil slowly alongside your instructor who although on a seperate rope provides information, reassurance and a backup safety tether. Imagine free-hanging in a massive void... bouncing a bit & turning because of the sheer length of the rope. Look around into upper levels of the cave and giant spagatites (look like giant green hands growing out of the walls). Wierd plants struggle to cling to the sheer walls and all the while the roar of the Mangapu River echoes up from caverns far below. One guide looks after up to 4 people - who all make their unforgettable descent together down through the surreal mists and eventually landing in the base of this massive cavern. Once down, take in the awesome views before starting on an even more amazing trip back to the surface. See excellent glowworms and huge flowstone formations. |
Lost World 7 Hour Epic - with Waitomo Adventures LtdAbseil 100m into this amazing cavern as per the 4 hr option, but this time wearing a wetsuit - you're heading off to explore the Mangapu river passage.
The 100m freehanging abseil will astound you, but on this option thats only the beginning. Spend the rest of the day walking, wading and swimming through the cavernous passages of this famous underground system. Yes you need to be moderately fit (e.g. go bush walking for a day), but the trip is intended for complete novices - all you need is a swimsuit & a smile!See Fossil giant oysters and whalebones; giant flowstone (looks like icing sugar running down the walls). Lots of fun & optional challenges - water jumps; climbs and spiders. Includes an absolutely fantastic glow worm display.
Includes lunch & a BBQ dinner as well as all equipment (helmets; lights; wetsuits; ropes; harnesses; boots etc). |  |
 | St Benedicts Caverns - with Waitomo Adventures LtdThis adventure trip is relatively gentle but takes you to see NZs "Best Dressed" cave. Includes 2 Abseils total 40m and a flying fox through the stalactites. A dry trip suitable for adults & children (min age 12 yr old).
Imagine a huge underground chamber 100m long and 40m high - just bristling with stalactites; stalagmites; flowstone and all manner of wonderful natural creations.
You gain access down a 40m shaft in two abseils. Once down the group makes its way along connecting passages until suddenly you've arrived...The main chamber is fabulous and the best part is yet to come. Clip onto a flying fox (zip line) that will zing you part way across the chamber. After that its walking and clambering past even more unusual formations until reaching the exit stair. |
| Driving- Riding- Racing! |
 | 4WD Bush Safari
Pair up in our 4 Wheel Drives and share the driving as you negotiate our extreme trail. Set amongst beautiful native rain forest. Conquer your fear as you slowly manoeuvre your 4WD through a variety of challenges including the 'luge’, through the 'chunnel', over the 'waterfall' and more. No scoring here, just bravery awards. CB radios, heaters, all weather protection and instructor provided. The vehicles get dirty, you stay clean.
Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour
Requirements: Drivers require current
driver's licence. |
Monster 4x4 Thrill
Ride
Hang on as you are driven over seemingly impossible terrain in complete safety with our driver. You will climb and ascend near vertical slopes & tilt over to an angle that has every part of your body holding tight. This vehicle is purpose built with roll cage, seat belt harnesses, steering at both ends, huge tyres, air diff locks and amazing suspension travel.
Takes four passengers at a time.
Duration: approx 10 minutes
Requirements: Minimum passenger height 1.2 metres |  |
 | The Luge - with Skyline SkyridesThe Luge is an exciting ride for all ages. A 'world first' proudly designed and built in Rotorua, the Luge is a fun filled ride on a three-wheel cart. The unique braking and steering system provides the rider full control and allows them to travel as fast or slow as they wish.Three separate concrete sealed tracks wind through the redwood trees. Children under six are able to be carried in tandem. Riders return to the top of the luge on a specially designed chairlift system.
Scenic Luge - A track with viewing bays at great locations for taking photographs, enjoy a leisurely trip whilst enjoying the panorama views
Intermediate Luge Track - An exciting track to thrill the more experienced luge rider.
Advanced Luge Track - A thrilling and exhilarating ride. |
Pure Dirt Tours
Motorcycling off road is what we are all about. Whether you are looking to try dirt biking for the first time or are looking for a multiday adventure, we have a tour to suit you.
We cater for ALL abilities and ages. No need to worry about a license, as all our tours are off road.
All tours include a complete set of top of the line safety gear and modern dirt bike to suit your size and ability
There are trails for beginners to experts. Because of our great range of bikes and trails, we can offer you a complete off road experience, from a half hour family tour - to a three day all-inclusive tour with great meals and top accommodation.
What ever you are into - kids rides, training, trail riding, Enduro, Motocross, Scramblers - we can offer you an amazing New Zealand riding experience. Merv and his expert guide team will find the trails to suit you.
Beginner or pro, we guarantee that you will have a blast riding with us. |  |
| Sky diving, Bungi jumping, Bridge swinging etc. |
 | Tandem Skydive - with NZONE
It takes a certain kind of person to jump from an aircraft at 15,000ft into thin air. It takes courage. Harnessed by space age materials to an experienced qualified Jumpmaster, you step out that aircraft door and for some 60 seconds you plummet toward the ground at 200kph, terminal velocity. The Jumpmaster will deploy the reinforced tandem canopy controlling your entire skydive. Expect sensory overload as your mind/body/soul fight against every natural self preservatory urge. Achievement doesn't come sweeter! |
Taupo Bungy
Located in the stunning volcanic Waikato River Valley, Taupo Bungy is considered one of the world’s most spectacular bungy sites, featuring the world’s first cantilever platform and New Zealand’s first ‘splash cam’. We offer solo jumps, tandem jumps and we are very proud to offer you New Zealand’s highest water touch bungy. Wet or dry, the choice is yours! Taupo Bungy has an excellent safety record. Our emphasis is on maximum safety, ensuring maximum enjoyment! |  |
 | Taupo CliffhangerTaupo Cliffhanger swingers are released from 43 metres. Extreme swingers will swoop down to approx 4.5 metres above the Waikato River. You will reach speeds of approx 70KPH swinging solo or tandem (weight restrictions apply). Located in the Waikato River Valley, upstream of Huka Falls, and just 5 minutes from the Great Lake. The colour of the water alone is enough to inspire you to jump.
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Taupo Tandem Skydiving
Imagine yourself on an adventurous journey high above the spectacular Lake Taupo region with stunning views over the majestic Tongariro National Park
Skydive from as high as 15,000 feet with over one minute in freefall, reaching speeds in excess of 200kmph.
As the only Qualmarked skydive operator in Taupo, safety is our number one priority.
Full range of DVD and photo packages available.
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 | 80M Bungy Jump at Mokai Gravity Canyon mokai Gravity canyon's 80 metre Bungy jump is the North Island's highest bridge jump. Go solo or test the strength of a friendship with a tandem leap.
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Extreme Flying Fox at Mokai Gravity Canyon
Visitors to Gravity Canyon will experience the most extreme flying fox in New Zealand. Imagine being launched from a ledge 175 metres above the Rangitikei River before racing down a 1-kilometre zip-line at speeds up to 160 kilometres per hour – it quite literally takes your breath away! Solo, tandem or triple – this will be the ride of your life!
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 | Giant Bridge Swing at Mokai Gravity CanyonOur newest activity, the giant bridge swing, features a mind-blowing 50-metre freefall from the Mokai Bridge before arcing into a massive swing through the canyon below. Jumpers can go solo or in tandem with a friend who has no excuses.
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| Shows and entertainment |
 | BILLY BLACK'S
KIWI CULTURE SHOWNew Zealand's first Kiwi Culture Show with audience participation, see sheep shearing, bush animals, the 'Kiwi bear' and the dancing pig. This show has it all! As the Lonely Planet says "this is one helluv'a show". Stay on site in our world unique motels, a true Kiwi farm stay. Hosted by the legendary "Billy Black" or one of his team, this show will leave you in fits of laughter as you watch or even participate in anything from log sawing & log explosions to helping shear the sheep. Animals from the bush including a kiwi bear and a dancing pig. Farm animals and working sheep dogs on a farming scene complete this unique story.
YOU CAN:
Light the fuse to explode a log; help shear a sheep; team up and saw a log; experience sheep dogs working; see the 'Kiwi bear'.
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Agrodome
A visit to the Agrodome is simply a 'must do', offering visitors a fun, interactive, hands-on experience showcasing New Zealand farming at it's best.
One of the highlights is the very entertaining, world famous and multi-award winning Sheep Show, presenting an exciting and informative insight into New Zealand agriculture.
Experience the Organic Working Farm Tour - It is great fun, educational and very entertaining from start to finish! Tour our New Zealand working farm offering a hands on experience with many exciting close encounters and a visit to the Organic Orchard.
And much much more on offer at the Agrodome |  |
| Scenic Flights |
 | Strath Air HelicoptersStrath Air Helicopters provides a unique opportunity for the visitor to explore the natural beauty of New Zealand’s scenic Bay of Plenty. Our tours are ideally suited to travelers seeking to maximize their experience while here in Tauranga.
-12 minute Scenic Flight. The flight takes you over the stunning coastline via the artificial reef to the iconic Mount Maunganui (Dormant Volcano), over the Islands situated in the Tauranga Harbour, out to the peninsula of Omokoroa and return. Prices: $234 based on 3 people flying ($78 per person). $216 based on 2 people flying ($108 per person). -18 minute Scenic Flight. The flight takes you from over the kiwifruit orchards at Matapahi then flying out over the hinterland then towards the peninsula of Omokoroa taking in Rangiwaea and Motohua Islands as well as the beautiful backdrop of Tauranga City and then returning via the iconic Mount Maunganui, stunning coastline and the artificial reef. Prices: $345 based on 3 people flying ($115 per person). $308 based on 2 people flying ($154 per person)
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Mountain Air
No visit to Central North Island is complete without taking a superb scenic flight with Mountain Air who have been operating fixed wing aircraft for 22 years. Flying from the Chateau Airstrip, Mt Ruapehu they offer three fabulous standard flights: The 15 minute Tongariro Crossing is a low level flight around the flanks of rugged Mt Tongariro and the beautiful young cone of Mt Ngauruhoe returning over the Tama Lakes and Bayview Chateau.
The Northern Circuit Flight (25min) takes you over the top of Mt Tongariro with great views into the beautifully flat North Crater, sacred Blue Lake and the beautiful Emerald Lakes and Red Crater. At the top of the climb there are great photo opportunities looking into the crater of Mt Ngauruhoe which last erupted in 1979. The descent passes over the Tama Lakes and Bayview Chateau Tongariro.
The Volcanic Explorer(35–40min) includes all of the features of the Northern Circuit Flight but includes a climb to 10,000 feet over majestic Mt Ruapehu with views out as far as Mt Taranaki and Hawkes Bay. Ruapehu’s crater lake is the highest crater lake in the world and last erupted in 2007. The descent is over the Turoa and Wakapapa ski-fields, Tama Lakes and Bayview Chateau Tongariro.
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 | Taupo's Floatplane Taupo’s Floatplane offers a range of Floatplane tours over New Zealand's World Heritage
Tongariro National Park (including Mount Ruapehu), Volcanic Plateau, Lake Taupo, the many
sparkling lakes of Rotorua and White Island - with vistas so breathtaking they will never be
forgotten.
Enjoy spectacular scenic flights in a high wing Cessna 206 Floatplane and enjoy unrestricted
views looking down on beautiful Lake Taupo and the snow-capped mountains (volcanoes!) of
Tongariro National Park.
Floatplane scenic flights are a magical way to experience and gain a true perspective of the
stunning Lake Taupo Region, and the sensation of taking off from and landing on the water is a
memory you will never forget.
Don't miss your opportunity to enjoy this unique flying experience!
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| Scenic & Nature Activities |
 | Driving Creek RailwayThe Driving Creek Railway is New Zealand's only narrow gauge mountain
railway. It provides an approvimately one hour trip featuring superb
views, magnificent engineering, while travelling through replanted
native forest. Unique art work can be viewed on the journey and at the
shop. A DVD giving an insight into the building of the railway and the
reation of the arts and crafts can be viewed throughout the day.
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The Hidden Valley of Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park
Situated just 25 minutes north of Taupo and 45 minutes south of Rotorua , nestled on the shores of Lake Ohakuri lies “ The Hidden Valley “ of Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park. Orakei Korako translated means “The Place of Adorning”.
Wander through a valley of unbelievable colour, of bubbling hot springs , gushing geysers and unimaginable natural beauty preserved by its isolation from the outside world . Scenes from the BBCs Natural History Series “Walking with Dinosaurs” were filmed at Orakei Korako. Ruatapu Cave, one of only two geothermal Caves known to exist in the world, is an experience not to be missed, 120 feet down, a thermal mirror pool is situated at the bottom. Voted #45 in AAs 101 Must See & Dos
Lonely Planet Travellers Guide writes… “ Orakei Korako is possibly the best thermal area left in New Zealand and one of the finest in the world”
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 | Lakeland QueenThe Lakeland Queen Cruise on the mystique Lake Rotorua. The Lakeland Queen is New Zealand’s only genuine stern wheel, paddle driven boat, designed on the Mississippi River boats. We gladly welcome you on board for a scenic cruise, complimented with a mouth watering range of cuisine and selection of NZ wines and beverages. Enjoy breakfast or lunch while cruising on Lake Rotorua. Take in the scenery of key landmarks and the surrounding countryside such as Ohinemutu, Kawaha Point, Mokoia Island, and Sulphur Point. The crew of MV Lakeland Queen prides itself on quality and service to all and provides cuisine to suit the discerning tastes to its varied international clientele. Fully licensed bar on board.
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Waimangu Volcanic Valley Walks and Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruises
Step into a landscape of dramatic volcanic and geothermal activity. Set in pristine New Zealand native bush, Waimangu Volcanic Valley is the world’s youngest geothermal system, created from the massive 1886 eruption that split Mount Tarawera in two, buried the world renowned Pink & White Terraces and destroyed the surrounding region.
In geological terms Waimangu provides us with the opportunity to see how the world began. Explore its rich social, natural and cultural history through eco focused self guided walks to suit all ages and abilities, a boat cruise with commentary on Lake Rotomahana, or a combo of walk and cruise, ranging from 45 minutes to over 4 hours. You’ll be amazed at the valley’s gigantic steaming cliffs, volcanic craters and iconic features such as beautiful Inferno Crater, steaming Frying Pan Lake, Bird’s Nest Terrace and more.
And at the end of your volcanic adventures relax in our modern
Café Nature@Waimangu or visit our shop Gifts@Waimangu. Waimangu is a protected area and the winner of multiple Eco Tourism awards
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 | Otorohanga Kiwihouse and Native Bird ParkAt the Otorohanga Kiwi House, every visitor is assured of seeing kiwi on our guided tour of the nocturnal house. Enjoy a walk through New Zealand's original walk-through aviary, see native birds in a natural forest habitat. The park carries out a successful breeding programme, which includes kiwi, waterfowl, tuatara and native reptiles. Situated in Otorohanga, 1km off the main road to Waitomo Caves. Our well-stocked shop has a selection of wildlife oriented gifts, souvenirs, books and also sells cold drinks and snack foods. Open daily 9am-5pm (last admission 4.30pm) & 9am-4.30pm June to August (last admission 4pm). Wheelchair access.
Here Today...Wild Tomorow
The Otorohanga Kiwi House is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the conversation of our native wildlife. Through the breeding and release into the wild of endangered species the kiwi house is making a (real) difference today.
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Kiwi Watch Eco Tour.
There is one place on the planet where you are guaranteed a night time encounter with kiwi birds. Our knowledgeable guides will ensure you come as close as possible to the birds from our rustic bird hide. Kiwiwatch happens every evening at twilight except Saturday. Tour takes up to two hours.
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| Relaxation and Spas |
 | Hells GateStroll through our amazing, steaming, bubbling thermal park, see mud pools and hot springs and experience a taste of Maori culture. Visit our day spa, soak in hot pools, enjoy a Rotorua mud facial or a massage incorporating traditional Maori techniques.
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