Published on Feb, 2025

Great tour of the area with ample opportunities to get out and explore the area. We visited four lakes, walked through a grove of redwood trees, and hiked a beautiful path along the river all while learning about the plants, trees, and natural history of the area. Stephen is a very knowledgeable and engaging guide.

Published on Dec, 2024

Stephen was our very friendly and knowledgeable guide for this lovely tour. We were looking for something different to do as we are past the age of wanting high adrenaline activities. We started off at the Hamurana Springs nature reserve, a beautiful, serene place with natural cold springs occurring…and had a sacred place to the iwi of Ngāti Rangiwewehi.  We walked through some extremely tall and beautiful Redwood Trees which made us feel incredibly small! Stephen talked about the trees, the plants and all the wonderful ferns. He pointed out trees that were used for medicinal purposes but others that were poisonous. From there we visited the Ōkere Falls, the Tutea Falls, Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Rotokakahi (Green Lake) and finally Lake Tarawera. Stephen filled us in with the history and flora and fauna of each Lakeside. There was a reasonable amount of walking so some fitness is needed but well worth it to see the Real Rotorua.

Published on Jun, 2024

Amazing. Magic. Breathtaking. The Lakes tour was a definite highlight of my trip to NZ. The discovery of stunning crystal clear lakes, towering redwoods, waterfalls, and ancient volcanic craters was expertly accompanied by well researched local knowledge. Stephen’s passion for showing the wonders of Rotorua made the tour exciting and fun. I highly recommend Explore The Lakes Tour to all who manage to spend a day in Rotorua. You will not be disappointed!

Published on Jun, 2024

Man, it is almost the best tour in my NZ trip. It is winter and only me booked this trip. Stephen was still very warm, explaining everything I was curious about during this trip-- and took photos for me. Since there was only me, it was better than a normal private trip because Stephen was so professional about these lakes and springs, and his hot chocolate!

Published on May, 2024

I was traveling “solo” with my infant baby girl. Our guide and driver Stephen is not only a highly knowledgeable person but also very well traveled. He showed the beautiful lakes and the springs around. Also told a lot about the native flora and fauna as well as Māori tradition and culture. I highly recommend this tour!