Whirinaki Forest Footsteps: Māori Guided Tour, Picnic & Transfer
Overview
An unforgettable adventure from start to finish! This guided Māori cultural walking tour through a stunning Jurassic podocarp rainforest was truly one-of-a-kind. The journey began with a comfortable and fun bus ride from Rotorua, where we met our friendly Māori guides. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with a traditional Mihi Whakatau and Karakia, which set a deeply meaningful tone for the day.
The rainforest itself is breathtaking—towering 1,000-year-old Totara trees, lush native plants, and the chance to spot rare birds in their natural habitat. The guides shared fascinating stories about the forest’s history, Māori traditions, and the medicinal plants known as Rakau Rongoa. We even got to experience 'Forest Bathing,' a peaceful moment of connection with nature, accompanied by beautiful Māori chants and music.
The packed picnic lunch, infused with traditional flavors, was delicious, and hot Kawakawa tea was the perfect ending. A must-do for anyone visiting Rotorua!
What's Included
- Lunch
Meeting and Pickup
Please arrive to the pickup location at the Rotorua I-Site and Visitor Centre 15 minutes before departure (Arrive 8.15am, Departing 8.30am).Please be sure to bring your refillable water bottle and your day bag/backpack. Suggested items to include in your backpack: jacket/wind breaker, sensible walking shoes/hiking shoes, any medication you might require, glasses, phone/camera, sunscreen, insect repellent.For any questions, please contact +64 21 804 012
What To Expect
Book Online
Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free
Whirinaki Te Pua A Tane Conservation Park
4 hours Admission Ticket Included
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (8)
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Whirinaki Forest Footsteps: Māori Guided Tour, Picnic & Transfer?
Cancellation Policy
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Activity code: C-5518722P1
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 10 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (8)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.
Filter by:
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Lunch.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Whirinaki Forest Footsteps: Māori Guided Tour, Picnic & Transfer is as follows:
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Whirinaki Forest Footsteps: Māori Guided Tour, Picnic & Transfer will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What's Included
- Lunch
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
