Day 26 Rotorua Redwoods walk Maori village Optional Canopy Tour

Meals included: B L

Breakfast: Served at the hotel starting at 7:30am.

Morning: Around 9:15am, we'll take a 15-minute drive to the Whakarewarewa Forest, an area where exotic tree and plant species were planted in the early 1900s and includes a stand of 27 majestic Redwood trees. Upon arrival, our Trip Experience Leader will lead us on a walk through this dense forest.

Then, at about 10:15am, we'll drive over to Ohinemutu, a Māori village on the shores of Lake Rotorua that is home to members of the Ngāti Whakaue tribe, who have been sharing their Maori heritage with visitors for more than 200 years. A resident of the community will accompany us on a stroll through the village, where we'll notice the intricate carvings on the outside of the Marae, the the community's meeting house, and gain a better understanding of the Maori way of life. We'll also see that the lakeside setting was chosen for its abundant geothermal energy, with hot water vents used for cooking, bathing, and heating. Then, our Maori host will join us for lunch at one of the local establishments owned and operated by Ngāti Whakaue.

Lunch: Around 12pm at a local venue in Ohinemutu, where we'll try out some Maori specialties and have an opportunity to ask our host questions about Maori traditional culture.

Afternoon: After lunch, 1:30pm we’ll re-board our private motorcoach for the short ride back to our hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free for your own discoveries. Perhaps you will refresh during a soak in the thermal waters at a nearby spa. Or, if you choose to explore more of this lakeside city, ask your Trip Experience Leader for their favorite activities.

Or, you may join our optional Canopy Tour experience. We will depart the hotel on a shuttle to this tour. We will venture deep into the ancient New Zealand forest on swing bridges and ziplines to learn about flora and fauna from a personal resident guide. This company has an eco-focus, so we will also learn about their endeavors in regenerating the forest in the region. Travelers who chose to take this optional tour will return to the hotel around 5:30pm.

Dinner: On your own—explore downtown Rotorua or dine at one of the hotel’s restaurants.

Evening: Explore on your own this evening by relaxing in the hotel or perhaps you'd like to rent a bike and take a peaceful night ride through the city.

11/17/22

Close Window