Rotorua City & Lakes Tour

About this experience

Rotorua City & Lakes Tour Experience Rotorua from a completely different perspective aboard a genuine World War II amphibious vehicle known as "The Duck". This guided tour combines city sightseeing with lake cruising, taking you through Rotorua's city centre before seamlessly entering the waters of Lake Tikitapu and Lake Ōkāreka for spectacular views. Your English-speaking guide shares local stories, Māori cultural traditions and fascinating anecdotes as you travel past iconic buildings, lush parks and impressive homes. The real highlight comes when your vehicle transitions from road to water, offering sweeping views of crystal-clear lakes surrounded by native bush, with Mount Tarawera providing a dramatic backdrop that tells the story of the area's volcanic past. The Duck vehicle comes equipped with heaters, blankets and roll-down sides for all-weather comfort, making this adventure accessible year-round. You'll discover how local communities have adapted to their volcanic landscape whilst enjoying both contemporary city life and the natural beauty of the lakes district. What is Included Guided tour aboard a World War II amphibious vehicle English-speaking expert guide with local commentary City sightseeing through Rotorua's centre and residential areas Lake cruise on Lake Tikitapu and Lake Ōkāreka Weather protection with heaters, blankets and roll-down sides Wheelchair accessibility with staff assistance Scheduled bathroom breaks during the tour Good to Know Tours depart daily at 11am and 2:15pm. Please arrive early for boarding to ensure a smooth departure. The tour includes approximately 15 minutes at each lake, subject to the schedule. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. In cooler conditions, warm and waterproof clothing is recommended. You may bring snacks on board, but hot food items are not permitted. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but wheelchair users should inform staff in advance to ensure proper arrangements are made. Bathroom breaks are included throughout the tour for everyone's convenience. If you're looking to explore more of Rotorua's geothermal wonders, consider combining this tour with other Rotorua geothermal experiences to make the most of your visit to this unique region.

Highlights

• Tour Rotorua by land and water aboard a genuine WWII amphibious vehicle
• Drive through Rotorua city centre then sail straight onto Lake Tikitapu
• Continue onto Lake Ōkāreka for panoramic views from the water
• English-speaking guide shares Māori cultural traditions throughout
• Local stories and anecdotes woven into every stretch of the route

What is included

• Guided tour aboard amphibious vehicle
• City centre sightseeing by road
• Lake cruising on Lake Tikitapu and Lake Ōkāreka
• English-speaking guide throughout

Before you go

Please dress for the weather as the tour operates in all conditions; warm and waterproof clothing is recommended for cooler days Food is permitted on board except for hot food Wheelchair accessible vehicles are available for this tour There are scheduled restroom breaks; the time spent at each lake is typically around 15 minutes Tour departs daily at 11am and 2:15pm

Cancellation terms

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience. Within 24 hours of the start, the booking cannot be cancelled.