Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about Taiao Adventures and our unforgettable tours. If you need further assistance, feel free to contact us!

Booking & Arrival

How do I book a tour?

Booking is essential. We recommend booking in advance to secure your spot due to popularity, as on-the-day bookings may miss out if we are fully booked.

Book Glow Worm Kayak Tour

Book Waimangu Valley Walk & Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour

Where do we meet you?

Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the meeting time at the Rotorua Information Centre. Once you meet your guide, you can forget about time altogether!

Address: 1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua

Tour Details

How long are the experiences?

For Glow Worm Kayaking Tours allow at least 3 hours for the round trip leaving from and returning to Rotorua.

For Waimangu Valley Walk & Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour allow at least 5 hours for the round trip leaving from and returning to Rotorua.

What can I expect during the Sunset/Dusk/Night Kayaking tour?

During these tours, you can expect incredible glowing worms and stargazing (if the skies are clear). Our guides have an approved navigation safety license for night operations.

Do you provide transportation to and from the tour locations?

Yes, pick-up and return transfers are provided from the Rotorua Information Centre.

Safety & Equipment

Is there a weight limit ?

Yes, the kayaks have a weight limit of 220kg total per kayak.

What gear do you use?

We use two-person sit-on-top kayaks with a weight limit of 220kg (total per kayak). Water-friendly shoes are provided if needed. Wetsuits are provided during cooler months.

Do I need experience for the kayaking tours?

No experience is required for our kayaking tours.

What if the weather is bad ?

We will do our best to get in touch well in advance if the weather looks bad. If our regulations allow us to operate, we will proceed with the tour. However, sometimes Mother Nature wins.

What to Wear & Bring

What should I wear?

For kayaking in summer (November - February): We recommend wearing light-weight clothing. Shorts/pants/leggings for your bottom half and at least two layers for your top half. Water friendly shoes are recommended, but are provided free of charge if needed.

For Kayaking outside of summer (March - October): Please wear warm clothing (thermal if possible). Pants/leggings for your bottom half and a minimum of three layers for your top half (which are preferably thermal, fleece, or wool). Please also bring a warm hat and gloves. During our coolest months you will be provided a wetsuit to wear over your clothes. Water friendly shoes are recommended, but are provided free of charge if needed.

What should I bring on a tour?

Towel
Water bottle
Rain jacket if it looks likely to rain
Change of clothes (just incase)
Sense of fun and adventure!

Additional for Waimangu Valley Walk & Kayak Tour:

A packed lunch if you wish (food is also available for purchase at the Waimangu Cafe)
Credit Card/Cash/Eftpos for food and drinks available to purchase from Waimangu Cafe
We recommend that you should bring a water proof camera! (These are carried at your own risk)

All necessary equipment for the activities will be provided.

Family & Group Information

Can children participate?

Yes, our tours are suitable for all ages 5 years old and above. We are happy to accommodate younger children when possible, please email us directly to enquire.

All participants 16 years and under must be supervised by a responsible adult 18 years or over.

Are the tours family-friendly?

Absolutely! Our tours are perfect for families and we have activities suitable for all ages above 5 years old.

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes, we offer discounts for large groups. Please contact us directly for more information on group rates.

Partnerships & Conservation

Do you work with Trade?

Yes, we welcome trade partners and are committed to providing the very best hospitality (manaakitanga). We foster strong business-to-business relationships with our partners.

How do you ensure the safety of glow worms during the tours?

We work closely with experts to ensure our tours do not disturb the glow worms. Our guides follow strict protocols to protect these delicate creatures.

Get in touch

Get in touch with Taiao Adventures today! Whether you have questions about our tours, want to make a booking, or just say hello, we'd love to hear from you. Fill out the form below or use the contact details provided, and one of our friendly team members will get back to you as soon as possible.