Te Puia & Hells Gate incl. Mud Spa Experience Private Tour

Auckland, NZ
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (8 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

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    Private transportation
    Private transportation
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    Other
    Complimentary High-Speed Internet on-board the minibus
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    Other
    Complimentary refreshments and water on board
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    Fully guided private return transfers from Auckland
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    Other
    Chance to see the towering water jets of Pōhutu Geyser.
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    Luxurious temperature controlled transportation in a minibus
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    Other
    Admission to Hell's Gate mud pools and sulphur spas
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    Other
    All Fees and Taxes
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    Enjoy a scenic drive through lush countryside with opportunity for photo stops.
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    In-vehicle air conditioning
    Air-conditioned vehicle
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    Other
    Traditional weaving tutorial to craft your own masterpiece.
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    Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland
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    Admission to traditional Māori cultural performance.
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    Promote good skin health and overall, well-being
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    Up-close look at the valley's immense bubbling mud pools.
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    Spot the iconic New Zealand kiwi bird at the nocturnal house.
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    Experience the magical qualities of the nutrient rich mud pool at Hell’s Gate
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    Insights into Māori heritage & historical uses of the land.
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    On-board WiFi
    WiFi on board
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    Other
    Relax and rejuvenate yourself in the sulphur spa and cool plunge pool
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    A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour
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    Lunch
    Hangi buffet lunch at Te Puia Geothermal Valley.
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    Admission to guided tour and hangi buffet lunch at Te Puia Geothermal Valley.
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    Soak up stunning views over the amazing geothermal reserve
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    Bathe in world-famous mud baths, soak in the sulphur spas & cool plunge pool

Excluded

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    Breakfast
    Breakfast
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    Dinner
    Dinner

What to expect

1

Auckland Central

We pickup travellers from most locations in the Auckland CBD location. If your pickup location is not available on the list, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our very best to accommodate your request.

Duration 15 minutes
2

Bombay Hills

The Bombay Hills are a range of hills to the south of Auckland, New Zealand. Though only a small and seemingly insignificant range of hills, they lie at the southern boundary of the Auckland region, and serve as a divide between Auckland and the Waikato region. directly named after the ship Bombay, The ship itself was named after the Indian city of Bombay (now Mumbai). Bombay Means: a breed of black short-haired medium-sized cat.

3

Robert Harris

We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Waikato region.

Duration 15 minutes
4
Dog and Sheep Shaped Corrugated Metal Buildings

We will also pass through the unique town of Tirau (the corrugated iron sculpture capital of the world) known for its antique shops and animal-shaped corrugated iron buildings.

Duration 10 minutes
5
Te Puia

Situated five minutes from central Rotorua, Te Puia is an iconic destination for visitors featuring the world famous Pōhutu geyser, Māori cultural performances, live Kiwi birds, boiling mud pools, native bush and the national school of wood carving and weaving. Feel the warm welcome of Māori guides from the moment you walk in. Explore the unique Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, home to the world famous Pōhutu Geyser, which erupts up to twenty times a day, and up to thirty metres high into the air. Explore the boiling mud pools and the boiling waters which are still used to cook in. Discover the distinctive flavours and unique preparation of our traditionally cooked Māori hangi. This experience includes an extended tour of Te Puia, an interactive weaving experience, plus a traditional Māori Hangi buffet lunch infused with indigenous flavours and a Māori concert.

Duration 180 minutes
Admission Admission Included
6
Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve & Mud Spa

Within a short drive we move to our second destination where you will have a devilishly good time at Hell’s Gate mud bath and sulphur spas. Get down and dirty in a mud bath or unwind in a Sulphur spa overlooking a spectacular geothermal landscape, before cooling off in a beautiful spring-fed waterfall and plunge pool. Featuring hot-water lakes, New Zealand’s largest mud volcano and the largest hot water waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere, the Hells Gate Valley is the place to be for an indulgent experience that is almost sinful. Being the only geothermal mud bath in New Zealand, Hell’s Gate spa is a truly therapeutic experience. The healing properties of the geothermal mud and sulphur mineral water have been used by local Māori for over 800 years. You can slather yourself in the warm geothermal mud before jumping in the sulphur pool, with minerals that help to clear and detoxify. This amazing landscape will captivate your imagination as it bubbles with heat and history.

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Included
7

Auckland Central

After an exhilarating fun-filled adventure experience at Rotorua, it is now time to head back to Auckland to conclude your evening and drop-off at your hotel in Auckland. We can also drop you at your accommodation in Rotorua if you are staying locally in the region.

Duration 15 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    All infants must wear bathing suits or disposable nappies whilst bathing.
  • Additional information
    Being an active geothermal area with uneven terrain, sturdy footwear is recommended. Jandals, sandals, flip-flops or high heeled shoes are not suitable.
  • Additional information
    Both children and adults need to be comfortable with the heat, and Hell’s Gate recommends taking regular breaks to ensure overheating does not occur
  • Additional information
    Easy and good fitness level required.
  • Additional information
    For the bathing experience, guests can choose to bring their own bathing attire and towels or hire these items from Hell’s Gate at a small cost.
  • Additional information
    Guests are advised to shower before entering the pools in order to remove any makeup, sunscreen or other products applied to the skin as we cannot confirm what is in each product and therefore if a reaction with the Sulphur will occur.
  • Additional information
    Hell’s Gate have swimwear for both males and females for sale, subject to availability.
  • Additional information
    If the guest has had or is suffering from any of the following medical conditions, we strongly advise that they seek advice from their doctor prior to using the geothermal pools.
  • Additional information
    If the guest has had or is suffering from any of the following medical conditions, we strongly advise that they seek advice from their doctor prior to using the geothermal pools. The list of medical conditions below is not an exhausted list but serves to highlight some of the main medical conditions where the geothermal pools may not be advised: Pregnancy, Low or High Blood Pressure, Mobility Problems, Active or Under Active Thyroid, Verruca/ Warts, Heart Conditions, Epilepsy, Skin diseases/disorders, Diabetes, Metal Pins/ Plates, Claustrophobia, Ear Infections, Cancer, Recent Surgery, or Sulphur Allergies
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    It is important that children (as well as adults) drink water while bathing in order to keep hydrated.
  • Additional information
    Lengthy immersion in the hot pools may cause dehydration and fainting. Please remain hydrated at all time by drinking the water available in the spa facilities and inform staff immediately if any discomfort is felt. When exiting the pool, take care and use the handrails provided
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Please remove all jewellery before entering the pools as Hell’s Gate accepts no responsibility for tarnished jewellery.
  • Additional information
    Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, sun protection, jacket/warm layer, bring a camera & any essential personal items.
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Specialized infant seats are available
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    The mud bath experience is controlled to a maximum of 20 minutes on the basis of safety.
  • Additional information
    The mud baths are suitable for children over the age of 2.5 years, whereas the Sulphur spas are suitable for children over the age of 6 months.
  • Additional information
    This is a guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.
  • Additional information
    Tours are suitable for people of all ages and average fitness. Our scenic walks are short and optional. Please let our guide know at check in if you have any fitness concerns.
  • Additional information
    You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
Provided by ExperienceKart

What our experts say

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    Wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain.
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    Bring your own bathing suit for mud spa.
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    Enjoy lunch at Te Puia's hangi buffet.
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    Take photos at the scenic viewpoints.
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    Stay hydrated while enjoying the pools.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience a land where myth and legend come to life, where the earth boils, mud heals, and steam disappears into the clouds above. Introducing the Wai-O-Tapu & Hells Gate incl. Mud Spa Experience Private Tour, a journey that will immerse you in the rich geothermal wonders of New Zealand. This tour takes you on a day-long adventure through nature's fascinating thermal landscapes, where you can soak in hot steam, marvel at boiling mud pools, and witness a geyser eruption in spectacular fashion. Discover the healing power and excitement of this unique geothermal experience that has captivated visitors for centuries.

What to expect?

During this 780-minute tour, you can expect to explore two of New Zealand's most impressive geothermal wonderlands. At Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, witness the beauty of brightly colored geothermal pools, stinky sulphur mud baths, and explosive geysers. As you journey through the well-defined tracks of this volcanic zone, you'll feel the awe-inspiring power of the land that has been sculptured by geothermal activity. Continue your adventure at Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve & Mud Spa, where you can indulge in a therapeutic experience. Enjoy a guided or self-guided tour, relax in geothermal mud and sulphur waters, and rejuvenate in a spring-fed waterfall and plunge pool. Soothe your body and soul in this exquisite geothermal wonderland.

Who is this for?

The Wai-O-Tapu & Hells Gate incl. Mud Spa Experience Private Tour is the perfect choice for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking for a unique and healing getaway. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this tour offers something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the geothermal wonders of New Zealand and discover the beauty, healing properties, and awe-inspiring power of this extraordinary land. This tour welcomes travelers of all ages and interests, providing an unforgettable experience for those seeking to connect with nature and indulge in relaxation and rejuvenation.

Why book this?

Embark on this captivating private tour to experience New Zealand's most unique geothermal wonders. Imagine yourself surrounded by brightly colored geothermal pools, immersing in therapeutic mud baths, and witnessing the eruption of a majestic geyser. This tour offers an exclusive and personalized experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and power of these geothermal wonderlands. Refresh your body and soul as you relax in geothermal mud and sulphur waters, detoxify in mineral-rich springs, and unwind in a beautiful waterfall and plunge pool. This tour promises a truly immersive and unforgettable journey, leaving you revitalized and connected to the extraordinary forces of nature.

Good to know

During the Wai-O-Tapu & Hells Gate incl. Mud Spa Experience Private Tour, be prepared to spend a total of 780 minutes exploring these captivating geothermal sites. The tour begins at Auckland Central, with convenient pickup from various locations in the CBD area. You'll journey through the Bombay Hills, where you can enjoy a comfort break and savor some great coffee at your own expense. As you continue, pass through the unique town of Tirau known for its animal-shaped corrugated metal buildings. At Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, discover the distinct beauty of this geothermal wonderland, sculptured by geothermal activity. Conclude your tour at Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve & Mud Spa, where you can pamper yourself with therapeutic mud baths and sulphur pools. Finally, return to Auckland Central or your accommodation in Rotorua, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the Wai-O-Tapu & Hells Gate incl. Mud Spa Experience Private Tour have shared glowing reviews and enthusiastic feedback. They commend the breathtaking beauty of the geothermal landscapes, from the brightly colored pools to the volcanic features. Visitors praise the healing properties of the mud baths and sulphur waters, considering them therapeutic and highly rejuvenating. Many marvel at the surreal and unique experience that immerses them in the power of nature. Overall, reviewers express their satisfaction with this captivating and immersive tour, leaving them with unforgettable memories and a profound connection to the natural wonders of New Zealand.

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