Te Puia -Te Rā Guided Tour

vanniebaker

19 Apr, 2024

I was in New zealand for 10 days in March 2024 traveling our way from Auckland to Queenstown. We covered a lot of territory from the north to the South island, but never felt rushed. In awe of the stunning countrysides, natural beauty, and varied landscape...we learned about the Kiwi's efforts to preserve the native bush, explored the geysers in Rotorua (Te Puia), landed a helicopter on the icy Isabelle glacier, discovered breathtaking sights of snow-capped mountains and the epic Milford sound, and had the honor of attending a Maori dinner and performance (my favorite part of the trip) that culminated with experiencing all cultures as one! Even though every day of this trip was an exquisite adventure, it would not have been as wonderful without our guides from GOOD Travel, Debbie and Emily! They were knowledgeable, helpful, entertaining, and above all warm and friendly - we couldn't have asked for anyone better, thank you so much!!! The country of New Zealand broadened my horizons and the new friends I met brought so much joy...what a privilege to embark on such a trip! Vanessa G.

CliffS223

11 Apr, 2024

Excellent evening tour of the grounds, the geyser valley, and the school that teaches Māori to weave, woodwork, and carve stones. We enjoyed a great buffet dinner and a fabulous show by the Māori performers.

597bethp

10 Apr, 2024

5 stars!!!!! This tour was amazing! We saw a Kiwi bird (that’s a big deal), mud pits, geysers, naturally warm stones, walked through the cultural school, had a wonderful dinner, saw a cultural performance and had hot chocolate by moonlight. I will admit I teared up during the performance because it was so special and we felt so privileged to be included in Māori family. By choosing to visit this family and property we can help keep the culture thriving! Our guide Pippi is a sixth generation guide and was super sweet. Our evening guide Des was amazing and has a bursting personality you can’t miss! Please visit, learn and take a piece of this world home with you!

AussieInCT

04 Apr, 2024

We almost didn't go because of the high price but it was worth it. (And the price goes partly towards the school there.) You book a guided tour which goes for about 1.5hrs and you can then wander around at your leisure afterwards. The walk winds around so you get some good views of the geysers, the walk thru the kiwi exhibit is quick considering they are so well camouflaged but we saw one of the two. Then we got to the geyser and had about 20min to wander around. We were very lucky and happened to be there when the geyser erupted. Then we boarded a "train" to go back to the central area and the guide walked us through the crafting school which was really interesting and there is an art gallery. We then went to the cafe which meant we had to walk right around the outside and through the entrance again to get back into the park. We didn't realise that the cafe is outside the park but it was no problem as we had wristbands and just walked back in. It's just something to keep in mind as you plan your day/meals. So then we went back to look at the geyser and the kiwis at our own pace. We had a great look at both kiwis because the enclosure is nicely designed and they happened to be quite active when we were there. I would definitely go back to Te Puia and recommend it to people. They don't make it clear enough on their website that you have the guided tour and then are able to walk around on your own. I'd allow 2.5hrs or more too look around plus there are walking trails that we did not do because we were with our elderly Mum.

Thehubs1962

01 Apr, 2024

This was a really informative tour with our two guides, who were friendly, fun and informative. They paid particular care to one of our group who's knee was troubling her. The views are incredible and the largest geyser in NZ lived up to its name. I really wouldn't bother with the Lady Knox one which was underwhelming. We saw Kiwi and learnt so much about Maori tradition and crafting skills. Would highly recommend. There are extensions to this tour if you want to experience more but we were running late. The tours are all accompanied but you can wander round freely afterwards to get more photos etc.