The Solo Scale:

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Te Puia, just outside Rotorua, has three main attractions that you can visit during your time. These aren’t the only ones to visit, of course. They’re just the popular tourist destinations. Those three include the geothermal aspects, the Māori arts and crafts institute, and a Kiwi conservation centre!

Our visit started fairly early, but while we passed by the geysers, the activity was still low — steam in the rising sun. We moved on to view the Māori arts and crafts institute by walking through the outdoor sculptures before heading inside the Arts & Crafts Institute. Since it was so early in the morning, no one was inside working. However, if we had been there during working hours, we would have seen students. As it was, we still got to see several projects on display.

From there, it was on to the geothermal activity beginning with the bubbling mud. While it looked tempting, it was definitely too hot for a mud bath. Then, it’s on to the geysers. It was constant activity by the time we got there, which is something to keep in mind. The geyser isn’t going off constantly and while it does erupt (so to speak) up to 17 times per day, this is where having the guide comes in handy. They know Te Puia well enough to steer your visit in the most productive way.

During our visit, we didn’t have time for the kiwi conservation centre. We mostly did a quick stop and saw a stuffed version. Luckily, there’s plenty of time for you if you’re there! The whole tour took around two hours before we moved on to more sightseeing. That said, going so early in the morning was ideal. It was peaceful and not too crowded, and allowed us to enjoy Te Puia without fighting for space.

For more details to plan your visit, check out their website!

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