One of Rotorua’s oldest tourism attractions has joined up with one of Rotorua’s youngest tourism operators to launch a new tourism experience designed specifically for the domestic market: The Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour at Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
Through this new, three-hour guided experience, Lake Rotomaha will reveal its’ volcanic secrets.
Visitors will take in Waimanu’s Volcanic Valley’s Jurassic-type environment and colourful landscape, with the majestic Mount Tarawera in the backdrop, witnessing up close the steaming cliffs, fumaroles, and the numerous geysers dotted around the lake in the world’s youngest geothermal system.
“The absence of international tourists gave us the opportunity to take another look at our tourism experiences” says general manager, Waimangu Volcanic Valley David Blackmore.
“We noticed our domestic visitors had more time to explore the valley and were keen to learn more about the Tarawera Eruption and the Pink and White Terraces."
The Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour was developed in partnership with Paddle Board Rotorua and features two daily departures. It is perfect for families and couples, soft-adventure seekers and Instagrammers too; it is limited to eight participants per tour guide.
“We developed this trip in collaboration with Paddle Board Rotorua because we believe that Kiwis and international audiences, when they will return, seek meaningful tourism experience," says David.
Paddle Board Rotorua director and guided Nev Wilson is enthusiastic about this new venture.
“I think this is going to be the best daytime kayak trip in Rotorua. The first time I kayaked Lake Rotomahana, I was blown away by the sights, witnessing the earth breathing with the water is simply surreal.
“I’ve Googled it and I don’t believe you can have the same experience anywhere else in the world, the fact that you are at eye level with the geothermal activity makes it totally different, everyone leaves in awe," says Nev.
Priced at $120 for three hours for adults and at $65 for kids, the trip is accessible to everyone. Optional return transfers from Rotorua are available for $10 per person.
“The fact that it’s the location of the Pink and White Terraces strikes a chord with our visitors," says David.
"But the fact that Lake Rotomahana features so much more geothermal activity than all the other lakes is what takes visitors’ breaths away," says Nev.
Whilst the tour is available now, the official launch weekend is Auckland Anniversary which is Saturday, January 30 – Monday, February 1, a promotional code " PBRlaunch" is a available for this weekend which puts the adult rate at $99pp.
This latest product is a complement to existing products available at Waimangu, such as the walk and cruise half-day geothermal experience, the arts trail and Waimangu Local Store and Café, making Waimangu Volcanic Valley a must-see destination for visitors to Rotorua and Taupo areas.
