Rotorua

Boat Tours & River Cruises

Our most recommended Rotorua Cruises & Boat Tours

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  1. Rotorua City and Lakes Duck Tour

  Discover Rotorua city and its lakes on a unique 90-minute sightseeing adventure that takes you over land and into the water by amphibious vehicle. This is the best way to see the city and experience the beauty of the lake region on a single tour. Your tour begins right in the heart of the city, where you’ll see the city’s top sights and learn about the diversity that makes Rotorua such a unique destination. Venture out of town to the spectacular lake region and take in magnificent views of Mount Tarawera. Splash down into Lake Tikitapu and Lake Okareka. The tour is educational and fun for the whole family. Everyone is sure to enjoy this unique adventure in an authentic WWII-era amphibious vehicle.

  Sean was an awesome guide, funny and has a great sense of humor. Some of the "dad jokes" he says sarcastically are really well scripted and adds great value to the trip. Got to be the best trip I've ever been on and I've done most of NZ

  Reviewed by Josh, New Zealand, 1/3/2021
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  2. Kaituna River and Tutea Falls Whitewater Rafting

  Join an epic grade 5 whitewater rafting expedition on the Kaituna River and get an adrenaline rush in its deep warm water canyons. Located a 25-minute drive from central Rotorua, the rafting base is next to the Okere Falls Scenic Reserve.  Join an expert guide on an action-packed, 50-minute adventure down 14 epic rapids. Brave the famous 7-meter Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world. A must-do for adrenaline junkies and first-time rafters alike, the adventure is run by super-friendly guides to give you the safest and most entertaining trip on the river. Stretch your legs on the nearby walking track at the end of your raft to watch the rapids tumble over the falls, or head to the nearby cafe to enjoy some food and the best selection of craft beer in Rotorua.

  I went with Sam and he was just amazing. Really funny guy, if you get the chance to choose, go with him. Would definitely do it again and can only recommend everyone to do.

  Reviewed by Anonymous, 5/6/2021
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  3. Kaituna River: 3.5-Hour White Water Sledging Experience

  Try your hand at sledging, a uniquely ‘Kiwi’ activity, on the Kaituna River. The adventure is infused with local Maori culture and no prior experience is required. You can self-drive or benefit from courtesy transport from your door to the relaxing river base situated in the middle of Rotorua's native Kahikatea Forest. You're welcome to make use of the volleyball court or 3D maze located onsite. Receive an in-depth safety briefing on land and clamber into high-quality river gear. It's a quick bus ride to the Okere section of the Kaituna River where you can hone your sledging skills before jumping into the water. Enjoy the native scenery, play holes, and exhilarating rapids as you negotiate your way downriver at eye level. You’re in charge of your own vessel, propelled by the flippers on your feet. Experienced local guides will be nearby to encourage and help where necessary. At the end...

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  4. Kaituna River: 3.5-Hour Whitewater Rafting Experience

  Take on a thrilling rafting adventure with experienced and local Kiwi guides. From first timers to white rafting enthusiasts - there's something for everyone. Navigate a wildly beautiful landscape while learning about Kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and protection of the land. A quality adventure is blended with Maori culture for a memorable experience. You can self-drive or benefit from courtesy transport from your door to the relaxing River base situated in the middle of Rotorua's native Kahikatea Forest. You're welcome to make use of the volleyball court or 3D maze located onsite. Receive an in-depth safety briefing on land and clamber into high-quality river gear. It's a quick bus ride to the Okere section of the Kaituna River where you'll train and hone your rafting skills before dropping into the gorge and commencing your adrenaline packed activity. Snake through steep New ...

  Wonderful view and river was awesome, enjoyed the rafting and instructor made it a lot more fun.

  Reviewed by Tautalafua, 1/14/2021
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  5. Tarawera and Lakes 2-Hour Duck Eco Tour

  Discover Tarawera and Lakes on a unique 2-hour fully-guided adventure that takes place on land and water on-board a genuine WWII amphibious Duck. One of the best ways to appreciate the scenery of the Rotorua lakes district and learn more about the history of the land, the people, and the devastating 1886 eruption of Mt. Tarawera.  Your tour begins right in the heart of Rotorua and ventures out of town to the spectacular lake’s district where you will experience your first splash down into the sheltered calm waters of Lake Okareka. Your ConDUCKtor will then take you further, exploring the natural beauty of the lakes district with a backdrop of the magnificent volcanic domes of Mount Tarawera. After plunging into the deep blue water of Lake Tarawera, the return trip will see you viewing the sacred Lake Rotokakahe (The Green Lake) before splashing down on Tikitapu (the Blue Lake) your fort...

  Unique have never experienced before Awesome on land to water The commentary was informative and hilarious never a dull moment Thank you Marcus and the staff we interacted with

  Reviewed by Tina, 2/19/2021
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  6. Rotorua: Geothermal Valley Shore Excursion with Lunch

  Benefit from pickup at Tauranga port, and take a scenic drive around Mount Maunganui to take in the sights. Enjoy beautiful views of the lakes and forests, along with the first hints of geothermal activity. Arrive at a Maori village in Rotorua, and get a warm welcome from a local guide. Experience the Maori way of life and learn how they use the natural resources to cook, bathe, and heat their homes. View the geothermal wonders of the Whakarewarewa valley, and watch an amazing cultural performance. Savor a 2-course lunch at one of Rotorua's acclaimed restaurants, with unlimited tea and coffee. Take a leisurely drive along the lakefront, and stop to admire the giant redwood trees in the forest. Learn about the silver fern and its relevance as a symbol of New Zealand. Next, visit a working kiwi fruit orchard to learn how it became established in New Zealand. Taste different varieties and...

  Awesome guide Peter made the excursion so enjoyable. His knowlege and friendliness made it the best excursion ever

  Reviewed by Cathy, United States, 1/16/2020
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  7. Tauranga: Rotorua Geysers & Polynesian Spa Shore Excursion

  Join a small-group shore excursion from Tauranga to explore Rotorua's geothermal valley. Marvel at geysers, mud pools and steam vents with Maori culture and visit the Polynesian Spa for a rejuvenating experience. You will be picked up from Tauranga Port, dependent on your ship's arrival time, and journey to Rotorua.  Here you will experience the very best of Rotorua and stop at the Whakarewarewa Valley (with geysers, steam vents and mud pools). Your small group will have an official Maori guide and will experience a fascinating tour of the valley. Learn about Maori culture while watching a traditional Maori cultural performance. Observe the legendary Pōhutu Geyser, the largest geyser in the southern hemisphere, which can erupt to a height of 100 feet (30-meters) and as often as 20 times per day.   Next, enjoy a two-course lunch at one of Rotorua's highly regarded restaurants followed b...

  It was a wonderful day the driver was very informative and the guide that took us through the park where the geysers and mud pits were was great.

  Reviewed by Jennifer, 3/15/2020
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  8. Lake Rotorua: Jet Boat, Speed, Spins and Adrenaline

  Book a 30min Jet Tour on Lake Rotorua and experience the excitement and exhilaration of one of the area's most popular adventure activities. Feel the rush of the high-powered engines pushing you through the water at approximately 85 km/hr, while professional drivers thrill you with speed, spins, and adrenaline.  Visit iconic landmarks such as Kawaha Point, Mokoia Island, and Sulphur Bay and learn the history of the area, the people, and the events that have shaped this special place into the cultural and event capital of New Zealand.  You will be provided with spray jackets to keep you dry and warm and fit you with a life jacket to ensure you are safe on your blast around the lake. Suitable for almost all ages from the very young through to the most experienced. The service operates every day in all weather so you don't have to worry about availability. This is the very best way to...

  Was an awesome experience. Our Tour guide was funny and made the experience more enjoyable.

  Reviewed by Anonymous, 4/4/2021