Tirau is a small, charming town located in the Waikato region of New Zealand, known for its quirky corrugated iron sculptures and creative architecture. Positioned along State Highway 1, it serves as a popular stopover for travellers heading to Rotorua, Taupo, and beyond. The town is famous for its giant corrugated iron sheep and dog buildings, housing the local i-SITE visitor centre and a wool shop, adding to its unique character. Tirau is also home to cosy cafes, boutique shops, and local art, making it an interesting and delightful stop. Arrive 8.15 am 2. Dog and Sheep Shaped Corrugated Metal Buildings, Tirau New Zealand We recommend travellers to take a bathroom break and buy coffee or snacks. (15 minutes). You can pre-order to some of the recommended cafe's while we are on the way to Tirau to save time. Departure 8.30 am Travel: Tirau to Mudpool - Wai-O-Tapu Approximately 1hr 10mins(80 km) via State Hwy 5

You will be boarding a shuttle bus service provided by Hell's Gate at 9:50am at iSite Rotorua and will be heading to Hell's gate geothermal experience. Next, you will visit Hell's Gate Geothermal Park: Experience the dramatic geothermal landscapes, including a self-guided walk through bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and sulphur lakes. Enjoy a rejuvenating mud bath or sulphur spa. The mud bath experience is limited 20 minutes for health and safety reasons. Please have your lunch at the Hell's gate before boarding the shuttle bus at 1:30pm A shuttle bus will drop you at iSite Rotorua city. You will be joining the other tourists again, and we will be doing an hour driving highlights tour of Rotorua, while we pickup our lovely co-tourists from other attractions and drop off anyone who is checking in to Rotorua Hotels.

The Redwood Forest, or Whakarewarewa Forest, located near Rotorua, is a serene and beautiful forest known for its towering Californian Coast Redwoods, some of which were planted in 1901. This forest offers a network of walking and biking trails that wind through the majestic redwoods, providing stunning views of the lush native plants and geothermal landscapes. The forest is a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a peaceful escape with its fresh air, impressive trees, and vibrant greenery.

On the way back to Auckland, We will have a brief stopover at Mercer, a small settlement in the Waikato region of New Zealand, offers scenic views of the Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river. The river meanders through the lush, green landscape, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, watch boats pass by, and take in the expansive views of the surrounding countryside. The Mercer area is a popular rest stop for travellers, offering both riverfront views and a glimpse of the natural beauty of the Waikato region.

From Mercer, we head back to Auckland CBD, on the way back, we will drop off our friendly tourists at the Airport Transfer, and Airport hotels.