Tours Rotorua

Overview

Rotorua Duck Tours offers a unique sightseeing experience in Rotorua, New Zealand, combining land and water exploration in amphibious vehicles. Their City & Lakes Tour is a popular option that showcases the best of Rotorua's urban and natural attractions.
The Vehicle

The tour utilizes converted WWII amphibious vehicles, commonly known as "ducks." These vehicles are capable of traveling on both land and water, providing a seamless transition between city streets and lakes. The ducks have been modernized and refitted to ensure passenger comfort and safety while maintaining their distinctive, vintage charm.
Tour Duration and Departure

The City & Lakes Tour typically lasts about 90 minutes to 2 hours. Tours usually depart from a central location in Rotorua, often near the lakefront or a popular tourist area. Multiple departure times are available throughout the day to accommodate various schedules.
City Highlights

The tour begins with a drive through Rotorua's city center, covering key urban attractions:

Government Gardens: A historic area featuring Edwardian architecture and manicured lawns.
Rotorua Museum (Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa): While the building itself is currently closed for earthquake strengthening, the tour provides information about its history and significance.
Blue Baths: A historic bathing house known for its Art Deco style.
Sulphur Point: An area where geothermal activity is visible, with steam vents and bubbling mud pools.
Ohinemutu: A living Māori village on the edge of Lake Rotorua.


The guide provides commentary on Rotorua's history, Māori culture, and geothermal features throughout the city portion of the tour.
Lake Experience

The highlight of the tour is when the duck vehicle enters the water. The tour typically includes visits to up to three lakes:

Lake Rotorua: The largest lake in the area, formed by a volcanic crater.
Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake): Known for its brilliant blue color.
Lake Okareka: A smaller, picturesque lake surrounded by native bush.


As the vehicle cruises on the lakes, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including:

Native forests
Volcanic peaks
Lakeside communities
Local wildlife, such as black swans and other waterfowl


The amphibious capability of the duck allows for a unique perspective of the lakes and shorelines that can't be experienced from traditional tour buses or boats.
Educational Component

Throughout the tour, guides share information on various topics:

Rotorua's volcanic and geothermal history
Māori legends associated with the lakes and land
Local flora and fauna
Conservation efforts in the region
The history and mechanics of the amphibious vehicles

Accessibility and Comfort

The vehicles are equipped with steps and handrails to assist boarding.
Seating is typically bench-style, with some tours offering individual seats.
Most ducks have a roof for sun and rain protection, but open sides for unobstructed views.
Life jackets are provided for the water portion of the tour.

Booking and Preferences

Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Group bookings and private tours may be available for special events.

Environmental Considerations

Rotorua Duck Tours often emphasizes their commitment to environmental sustainability:

Vehicles are maintained to minimize environmental impact.
Tours help educate visitors about local ecosystems and conservation efforts.
The company may participate in local environmental initiatives.

Safety Measures

Regular vehicle maintenance and safety checks
Trained and experienced drivers/guides
Safety briefings before water entry
Compliance with local maritime and transport regulations

Weather Considerations

Tours typically operate in various weather conditions, but may be modified or canceled in extreme weather for safety reasons. The amphibious nature of the vehicle allows for flexibility in tour routes based on conditions.
Conclusion

Rotorua Duck Tours' City & Lakes Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Rotorua's urban and natural attractions. The unique amphibious vehicle provides a novel way to experience the city and its lakes, combining historical insights, cultural information, and natural beauty in one engaging tour.