TRIPLE DEAL Wai-O-Tapu, Redwood Forest & Blue Springs Ex Auckland

Traveling through New Zealand always promises a blend of stunning nature, fascinating geology, and warm local charm. The Triple Deal Wai-O-Tapu, Redwood Forest & Blue Springs tour from Auckland is no different. This 12-hour adventure packs some of Rotorua’s most iconic sights—geothermal marvels, ancient redwood forests, and crystal-clear springs—into one organized trip.

What we love about this tour is its combination of diverse attractions, giving a well-rounded taste of New Zealand’s natural beauty and quirky town life. The expert guides make all the difference, offering insights and making the long day feel more relaxed and engaging. We also appreciate the value for money—a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price, especially considering how much territory you cover.

However, a potential consideration is the long travel time—roughly 12 hours including driving, sightseeing, and breaks—which could be tiring if you prefer more leisurely, less packed days. This tour is best suited for travelers with a sense of adventure, eager to see a variety of sights in one go without the hassle of planning multiple outings.

This trip is perfect for those who love nature, want to experience Rotorua’s geothermal activity, and enjoy quirky small towns. It’s also ideal if you’re short on time but want a broad, authentic taste of New Zealand outside Auckland.

Good To Know

• Diverse itinerary showcasing geothermal wonders, forests, and springs
• Expert guides with good communication and flexibility
• Great value for a full-day tour covering multiple attractions
• Long but well-paced day with regular breaks and included meals
• Small-group experience enhancing personalized attention
• Good for travelers who enjoy nature, culture, and unique landscapes

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Early from Auckland

The tour begins with a pick-up from SkyCity Hotel in Auckland CBD at 5:45 am, with departure sharply at 6:00 am. This early start might seem daunting, but it’s essential to maximize sightseeing time and avoid afternoon traffic. The two-hour drive to Rotorua offers a chance to settle in and get a preview of the day ahead. Expect a comfortable ride with a small group of no more than 22 travelers, which creates a more intimate experience and easier interactions with guides.

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Our first stop is the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, a highlight for many. This geothermal park is famous for its vibrant, surreal landscapes—think bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and colorful mineral deposits. As one reviewer mentioned, “The volcanic landscapes are incredible,” and the vivid colors truly live up to their reputation.

The Mud Pool is a quick 15-minute stop, allowing you to witness the bubbling, boiling mud that’s created by underground geothermal activity. It’s fascinating to see raw Earth power up close—perfect for photography and curiosity.

Lady Knox Geyser

Next, we head to see the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts daily at 10:15 am. Staff introduce a surfactant to trigger the eruption, making it a predictable but still impressive sight. One reviewer noted, “Lady Knox blew her top as scheduled,” which always makes a good photo. The included ticket means you don’t have to worry about extra costs, and the timing is ideal.

Wai-O-Tapu’s Main Attraction: The Thermal Wonderland

After the geyser, you’ll spend about 2 hours exploring the extensive geothermal park. Here, bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and colorful mineral formations paint an otherworldly landscape. The tour allows ample time to walk around, but some reviews suggest walking at a brisk pace. If you’re keen to spend more time, consider this when planning your visit.

Redwood Forest

The next stop is the Redwoods in Whakarewarewa Forest—a tranquil haven of towering Californian Coast Redwoods, some planted as early as 1901. The forest’s well-maintained walking trails, including the popular Redwoods Treewalk, offer a peaceful contrast to the geothermal sites. Expect a 30-minute walk in this serene setting, where reviewers comment on the “spectacular” views and the “impressive” height of the trees.

Blue Spring in Putaruru

The journey continues to the Blue Spring, a local gem known for its crystal-clear, vibrant blue waters. The spring supplies a significant portion of New Zealand’s bottled water, and you can see why—its pure, shimmering waters are mesmerizing. A 30-minute stop here provides a great photo opportunity and a peaceful moment amidst nature. Reviewers often mention how stunning and pristine the spring looks, making it a highlight for many.

Quirky Tirau and Its Metal Buildings

A fun, offbeat stop is Tirau, famous for its corrugated iron sculptures of dogs and sheep. These quirky buildings add character to the rural landscape and are a favorite for photos. Visitors find the town charming and enjoy the brief 15-minute walk around to see these whimsical structures.

Return to Auckland

Finally, after a full day of exploring, the group heads back to Auckland, with an estimated 2-hour drive. The tour includes drop-offs at the airport and nearby hotels, making it convenient for travelers with flights or accommodations in town.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This all-in-one day trip offers a lot of value. Unlike tours that focus on just one region or attraction, the Triple Deal combines Rotorua’s geothermal activity, lush forests, and small-town charm. The small-group format enhances interaction, and the knowledgeable guides, like Dinesh and Ambrose, make the journey informative and enjoyable. Several reviewers highlighted guides’ friendliness, flexibility, and clear communication, which significantly enhances the experience.

The well-paced itinerary, with regular breaks for breakfast, lunch, and photo stops, helps make the long day manageable. The included admission tickets at Wai-O-Tapu and the geyser eruption add value, removing extra expenses and logistical worries.

Tour Duration and Price

At approximately 12 hours, this tour is quite comprehensive. For $204.17 per person, it offers a good value considering the number of attractions visited and the transportation logistics handled. Travelers often mention that even with the long hours, the day feels worthwhile, especially given how many sights are packed into it.

Group Size and Comfort

With a maximum of 22 travelers, you’re not lost in a crowd. This small-group setup encourages more personal interaction and allows guides to tailor the experience slightly to the group’s interests. The comfortable vehicle and organized schedule make the long journey smoother.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Feedback from recent guests reveals a consistent theme: knowledgeable guides like Dinesh and Ambrose are appreciated for their friendly demeanor and clear explanations. One reviewer called Dinesh’s communication “wonderful,” and Ambrose’s flexibility was specifically praised for making the day enjoyable.

Many guests loved the stunning scenery, from the volcanic landscapes of Wai-O-Tapu to the century-old Redwoods and the vibrant Blue Spring. One noted, “The redwoods are spectacular,” while another marveled at how “the water in Blue Spring is so clear it looks like a swimming pool.”

Some travelers did mention the long drive and wished for more time at certain stops like Blue Spring, but overall, comments point to a satisfying experience that balances sightseeing with comfort. The inclusion of meals and regular breaks helped make the day manageable, even for those concerned about the length.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re eager to see a variety of New Zealand’s landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple trips, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and those with limited time in Auckland. The tour’s small-group format and knowledgeable guides can make it feel personalized, even with a full itinerary.

Travelers who don’t mind a long day and are ready for some walking and sightseeing will find this experience rewarding. It’s also ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Rotorua’s highlights.

Final Thoughts

The Triple Deal Wai-O-Tapu, Redwood Forest & Blue Springs tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, natural beauty, and quirky local flavor. For a reasonable price, travelers gain access to Rotorua’s geothermal marvels, majestic redwoods, and pristine springs—all in one organized day.

You’ll benefit from expert guides who share insights and make the long journey feel shorter, and the small group size ensures a more personal experience. While it’s a long day, the variety of sights and the value-packed nature of this tour make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting an authentic, full-day taste of New Zealand’s inland treasures.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or want to maximize your Rotorua experience from Auckland, this tour offers a convenient, engaging, and scenic journey that captures the essence of New Zealand’s natural wonders.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for the pickup?
The tour pickups start at 5:45 am from SkyCity Hotel Auckland CBD, with the departure at 6:00 am sharp, so being on time is key to staying on schedule.

Are meals included?
The tour includes breakfast and lunch, helping keep energy up during the long day of sightseeing.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 22 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience and easier interaction with guides.

Can I expect a guided commentary?
Yes, an English-speaking guide leads the tour, sharing insights along the way. Some parts of the drive feature audio commentary, which helps enhance your understanding of the sights.

Is it suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the long hours and walking might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues. Check with the tour provider if in doubt.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.