Experience Gift for Dad (Discover)

Experience Rotorua’s wild side on a guided 4WD buggy adventure through the native forests and rolling hills of Mount Ngongotahā. Travelling in a comfortable six-seater buggy driven by an experienced guide, this experience combines off-road excitement with some of the region’s most spectacular scenery.

After a short check-in and safety briefing, it's time to climb aboard and head deep into the bush along historic forestry trails. Along the way, towering silver ferns, native birdlife, and rugged landscapes create an authentic New Zealand wilderness experience, while guides share fascinating stories of Rotorua’s history, Māori culture, and the legends surrounding the sacred Spirit Mountain.

The journey reaches its highlight at elevated lookouts overlooking Lake Rotorua, Mokoia Island, and the surrounding countryside — a rewarding contrast to the thrill of the off-road tracks below. Blending adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery, this is a memorable experience for families, groups, and anyone wanting to explore a different side of Rotorua.

Test aim, timing, and nerve on an exciting clay bird shooting experience set high above Rotorua in the heart of native bush. Combining expert guidance with spectacular views over Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island, this is an unforgettable outdoor adventure for first-timers and experienced shooters alike.

After check-in, participants receive a full safety briefing and introduction from fully licensed instructors before learning the fundamentals of clay shooting, including stance, technique, and target tracking. With guidance every step of the way, confidence quickly grows as clays launch into the sky and the challenge of hitting moving targets begins.

What makes this experience truly special is the setting itself — a custom-built shooting range surrounded by native forest and panoramic lake views. Whether celebrating a special occasion or trying something completely new, the combination of adrenaline, achievement, and incredible scenery creates memories that last long after the final shot is fired.

Discover Rotorua’s spectacular landscapes from a unique perspective on a guided horse trek through the foothills of Mount Ngongotahā. Whether it's a first time in the saddle or a return to riding, friendly horses and experienced guides create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for riders of all experience levels.

After arrival and a short introduction, riders are matched with a suitable horse and given a briefing to help build confidence before setting off along rolling farmland and native bush trails. The journey winds through peaceful countryside filled with birdsong, towering silver ferns, and panoramic views stretching across Lake Rotorua, Mokoia Island, and the surrounding landscapes.

Combining the tranquillity of horseback riding with some of Rotorua’s most breathtaking scenery, this experience offers an unforgettable way to connect with nature and explore a side of the region few visitors get to see. From quiet forest paths to stunning lookout points, every moment creates memories that will stay long after the ride ends.

Nestled among native forest, this peaceful Rotorua retreat combines two of Secret Spot's most relaxing experiences into one rejuvenating wellness package. Surrounded by towering trees, lush ferns, tranquil ponds, and gently flowing waterfalls, you'll have the opportunity to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy moments of pure relaxation in a unique forest setting.

This package includes two separate experiences: a private cedar hot tub soak and a private sauna session. Relax in your own cedar hot tub filled with fresh spring water sourced from a natural aquifer and heated to the perfect temperature for a soothing 45-minute soak. Surrounded by native trees and ferns, you can simply unwind or enhance the experience with convenient tub-side bar service at the push of a button. For a different kind of relaxation, step into a private Japanese hinoki wood sauna, where heated volcanic rocks and adjustable steam create a traditional sauna experience. Refresh between sessions with access to cold plunge tubs and an outdoor cold shower, designed to complement the restorative benefits of contrast therapy.

What makes this experience truly special is its flexibility, allowing you to enjoy both experiences together or separately within the voucher validity period. The combination of private wellness facilities, tranquil forest surroundings, and thoughtful touches creates an atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a chance to recharge in nature, this wellness package offers the perfect balance of relaxation and rejuvenation. Leave feeling refreshed, revitalised, and immersed in the calming beauty of Rotorua's natural surroundings.

Feel the need for speed as you jump into the driver’s seat for an exhilarating Raceline Karting experience. Concentration, skills and a big dose of brave, will help you make the most of the world-class karting track and give it all you’ve got. The track is 1.2 km long with 11 corners, 6 hairpin turns, 150 metre straight and you'll reach speeds up to 100km/h - this will thrill you.

Test your limits in a safe and controlled environment, at Rotorua’s International Kartsport Raceway high up on the Mamaku Plateau, with top of the line Sodi 390cc 4 stroke karts imported from France. Off Road NZ is the only place in the country where you can race these incredible, state of the art machines on the same track as the professional racers.

Geared up and ready to roll, experience the rush of G-Force as you take on hairpin corners and flowing curves with speeds reaching close to 100 km/hour on the 150-metre straight. Go for a personal best or race each other to beat the clock and cross that finish line.

This experience is the Arrive and Drive Package which gives you 20 minutes of racing time on the track.

If you love it (which you will) you can upgrade to more tack time when you are there.

Get ready for an action-packed adventure on the waters of Lake Rotorua. After arriving at the lakefront, you'll receive a safety briefing and be fitted with the necessary gear before boarding a powerful jet boat. As the engine roars to life, hold on tight as you accelerate across the lake at speeds of up to 85km/h, skimming across the water and experiencing the thrill of famous 360-degree spins. Along the way, your driver shares fascinating stories about Rotorua's history, culture, and iconic landmarks surrounding the lake.

The excitement continues as you race across the open water, combining adrenaline-pumping manoeuvres with spectacular views of one of New Zealand's most famous geothermal regions. Between bursts of speed, there are opportunities to take in the scenery and learn about the people and events that have shaped Rotorua into the cultural heart of the country.

What makes this experience truly special is its unique blend of high-speed thrills, local storytelling, and stunning lake scenery. Perfect for adventure seekers this jet boat ride delivers excitement from start to finish. You'll leave with a smile on your face, lasting memories, and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and culture of Rotorua.

Step into an elegant and inviting afternoon at the Regent of Rotorua, where the timeless tradition of High Tea is served in a beautifully appointed setting. Settle in and enjoy a leisurely selection of delicate savouries, freshly baked treats and indulgent sweets, creating a relaxed occasion to savour at an unhurried pace.

Expect a delightful spread of sandwiches, including smoked salmon, cucumber and salad, ham and egg salad, and cheddar cheese, onion and salad, alongside homemade sausage rolls and a selection of baked savouries. Continue with freshly baked scones served with jam and cream, followed by sweet favourites such as lemon meringue, mini macarons and chocolate éclairs. Choose from English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Green Tea, Chamomile, or Peppermint tea to complete the experience.

Perfect for a special celebration, a catch-up with loved ones, or simply an afternoon of indulgence, this High Tea offers a charming way to slow down and enjoy good food and conversation. With its combination of classic flavours, comforting teas, and refined surroundings, it creates a memorable afternoon to savour and enjoy in the heart of Rotorua.

Step into a geothermal wonderland after dark and experience Te Puia like never before on the Mārama: Geyser Light Trail. As night falls, paths, geysers, and landscapes come alive in a breathtaking spectrum of light, creating an immersive atmosphere where storytelling, artistry, and nature blend beneath the stars.

Beginning at a festival-like entrance, this hosted night-time walk invites guests to explore a 1.5km trail at their own pace. Along the way, the music of local artist Maisey Rika guides the journey past interactive artworks and ten unique illuminated scenes that transform the geothermal valley into a magical sensory experience. Pause at the Terrace to enjoy a sweet treat or drink available for purchase while taking in spectacular views of the magnificent Pōhutu Geyser.

More than a night walk, Mārama is a celebration of light, culture, and the natural beauty of Rotorua. The experience concludes beneath the glow of Mārama (the moon) as guests pass through the traditional setting of Pikirangi Village, leaving with memories of a geothermal landscape unlike anywhere else in the world.

Discover a dining experience to remember at Pātaka Kai Restaurant & Bar, where spectacular geothermal views and exceptional flavours come together for an unforgettable evening in Rotorua. Set within the unique landscape of Te Puia, this cultural food and beverage experience showcases the warmth of Māori hospitality alongside a sophisticated menu inspired by both local traditions and global cuisines.

Settle into the inviting atmosphere and enjoy a generous buffet featuring lamb, chicken, and vegetables cooked in a traditional hāngī, complemented by mānuka smoked salmon and ham, fresh oysters and mussels, and a tempting selection of desserts. Served daily at 5:30pm, the buffet offers 90 minutes to savour the flavours and soak up the remarkable geothermal surroundings.

Blending authentic Māori influences with contemporary dining, this experience offers a memorable taste of New Zealand's culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. It's an evening designed to be shared, celebrated, and remembered long after the last bite.

Journey beyond Rotorua’s city limits and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Tarawera Lakes on a unique amphibious adventure that travels seamlessly across both land and water. Surrounded by pristine forests, volcanic landscapes, and crystal-clear lakes, this unforgettable sightseeing experience showcases some of the region’s most spectacular natural scenery while revealing fascinating stories of the area's history and Māori heritage.

Upon arrival, you will board an authentic WWII-era amphibious vehicle before setting off on a guided exploration through the stunning Tarawera region. Along the way, entertaining commentary brings the landscape to life as the journey winds through scenic countryside and reaches a series of beautiful lakes. The excitement builds with multiple splashdowns as the vehicle transitions from road to water, cruising across three remarkable lakes and providing unforgettable views of Mount Tarawera and the surrounding wilderness. Each lake offers a different perspective, creating a constantly changing backdrop throughout the adventure.

What makes this experience truly special is the rare opportunity to explore several of Rotorua’s most scenic lakes in a single journey aboard an iconic amphibious vehicle. Combining natural beauty, local culture, and the thrill of travelling across both land and water, it delivers a memorable experience that appeals to travellers of all ages. From the first splashdown to the final lakeside views, this remarkable adventure leaves lasting memories of one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary landscapes.

Get ready for twice the excitement at Velocity Valley in Rotorua with the Velocity 2 Pass, an action-packed experience designed for adventure seekers looking to make the most of their visit. Choose two thrilling rides and prepare for an unforgettable mix of speed, height and adrenaline in one of New Zealand’s premier adventure destinations.

On arrival, the experience begins with the necessary safety briefing before choosing the two rides that best suit you. Depending on availability and eligibility requirements, options include racing through the air on the Shweeb Racer, speeding across the track with the Agrojet, taking a dramatic leap on Swoop, or experiencing the intense rush of Freefall Xtreme. Each attraction offers a different kind of thrill, making it easy to create a personalised adventure filled with anticipation, excitement and plenty of memorable moments. Age, height and weight restrictions apply to individual rides, so checking the requirements before arrival is recommended.

With a choice of high-adrenaline experiences in one convenient Rotorua location, the Velocity 2 Pass is an exciting way to experience the adventurous side of the region. It’s ideal for someone looking for adventures, delivering more than just a day out. From the nerves before the ride to the rush of completing it, every moment builds toward an experience that will leave participants with an unforgettable story to take home.

Get amongst Rotorua's ultimate 4WD adventure, one that puts you in control!

Buckle up in an off road vehicle for an adventure deep into a native NZ forest. You'll tackle steep climbs, thrilling descents, water holes and mud in this awesome off road adventure.

On arrival you'll be familiarised with your custom built Suzuki Jiminy and then head out to the forest trails, that were originally build by loggers in the area for getting timber out of the ranges. Rugged and remote, there are many obstacles for you to navigate on the way!

With instruction from a professional guide, you tackle the terrain. Tight, twisting bends, deep muddy holes, a seven metre-high luge, steep climbs and thrilling descents – this is uncharted territory with challenges that come thick and fast.

Don’t hold back, get hands on and let the good times roll!

The 4WD Bush Safari Experience

• Unforgettable self-drive 4WD adventure
• High-performance 4WD Suzuki Jimny
• Automatic transmission and power steering
• From 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Departures from 9am with last tour at 4pm

Exhilarating, sensational karting fun

Feel the need for speed as you jump into the driver’s seat for an exhilarating Raceline Karting experience. Concentration, skills and a big dose of brave, make the most of the world-class karting track and give it all you’ve got.

Test your limits in a safe and controlled environment, at Rotorua’s International Kartsport Raceway, with top of the line Sodi 390cc 4 stroke karts imported from France. Off Road NZ is the only place in the country where you can race these incredible, state of the art machines on the same track as the professional racers.

Geared up and ready to roll, experience the rush of G-Force as you take on hairpin corners and flowing curves with speeds reaching close to 100 km/hour on the 150-metre straight. Go for a personal best or race your friends or colleagues to beat the clock and cross that finish line.

The Raceline Karting Experience

• Raceline Karting is NZ’s premier karting adventure
• Newest and longest state of the art outdoor KartSport circuit in NZ
• Situated at the Rotorua International KartSport Raceway
• 1.2km long, 8 metres wide, 150 metre straight
• Sodi 390cc 4 stroke karts imported from France
• Reach speeds close to 100km/hour
• Take on 11 corners and 6 hairpins

Experience the best of Hell’s Gate with a journey that combines Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes, rich Māori heritage, and renowned natural wellness experiences. Set within New Zealand’s most active geothermal reserve, this immersive adventure invites you to discover bubbling mud pools, steaming cliffs, and fascinating cultural stories before unwinding in the region’s famous healing waters.

Begin with a guided or self-guided interactive walk through the geothermal reserve, where you'll encounter erupting waters, an active mud volcano, a steaming hot waterfall, and unique geothermal formations. Wander through native bush shrouded in clouds of steam, learn about the legends connected to this remarkable landscape, and enjoy hands-on cultural experiences such as Māori carving and the healing mud foot pool. The geothermal walk typically takes between one and one and a half hours, allowing plenty of time to explore the reserve's most iconic features.

After your geothermal adventure, relax and rejuvenate with Hell’s Gate’s world-famous mud baths and sulphur spas. Cover your skin in mineral-rich geothermal mud before soaking in the warm sulphur waters, a wellness tradition local Māori have embraced for more than 800 years. Complete the experience with a refreshing dip in the cool plunge pool and enjoy the revitalising effects of Rotorua’s natural geothermal environment. Combining extraordinary scenery, cultural discovery, and deep relaxation in one unforgettable experience, Hell’s Gate offers a uniquely Rotorua adventure that will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected to one of New Zealand’s most remarkable landscapes.

Experience a peaceful geothermal escape with a private lakeside soak overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Rotorua. Nestled within one of New Zealand's most iconic wellness destinations, this exclusive bathing experience offers the perfect setting to relax, reconnect, and enjoy the restorative benefits of naturally heated mineral water in complete privacy. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply taking time to unwind, every moment is designed for pure relaxation.

Upon arrival, settle into your own Lake View Private Pool, where naturally heated geothermal mineral water and uninterrupted lake views create a calm and intimate atmosphere. The private pool is a quiet retreat away from the crowds. During your soak, take in the peaceful scenery, breathe in the fresh air, and let the warm mineral water soothe tired muscles while you relax at your own pace. Premium changing facilities with towels, secure lockers, and shower amenities are available to ensure a comfortable and seamless visit.

What makes this experience truly special is the rare combination of complete privacy, stunning lakeside views, and Rotorua's renowned geothermal mineral waters. Surrounded by natural beauty and rich geothermal heritage, it's an unforgettable way to slow down, recharge, and share meaningful moments with those who matter most. This tranquil experience leaves you feeling refreshed long after your soak has ended.