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North Island

Start: Rotorua
Travel Time: 3 hours
Minimum Age: 5

Glowworm Kayaking Adventure Near Rotorua

Paddle beneath the night sky on a guided glowworm kayaking tour just outside Rotorua, with return shuttle transport included for a smooth, stress-free experience. As darkness settles, watch the shoreline light up with thousands of glowworms, creating a magical natural display that feels almost otherworldly. This gentle, guided experience is ideal for families, with stable double kayaks and no prior experience required.

Your guide will lead you across calm waters while sharing insights into the local environment and glowworm habitats. On clear evenings, the stargazing adds another layer of magic, making this a truly memorable night out. With small group sizes and a relaxed pace, it’s a safe and enjoyable adventure for both kids and adults.

Relax and Unwind at Polynesian Spa

After your kayaking experience, return to Rotorua and enjoy access to Polynesian Spa’s Deluxe Lake Spa, located on the shores of Lake Rotorua. Here, you can soak in a selection of geothermal mineral pools, each offering calming warmth and beautiful lake views. The combination of acidic and alkaline waters is known for soothing tired muscles and leaving your skin feeling refreshed.

With no time limits on your visit, you can take your time to fully unwind after your evening adventure. Enjoy additional features like heated recliners, a cold plunge pool, and premium facilities designed for comfort. It’s the perfect way to finish a family-friendly evening in Rotorua, balancing light adventure with deep relaxation.

  • Guided glowworm kayak tour with transfers from Rotorua
  • Double sit-on-top kayak (shared)
  • Paddle and safety equipment
  • Entry to Polynesian Spa – Deluxe Lake Spa
  • Return shuttle from Polynesian Spa, Rotorua
  • Access to 5 geothermal mineral pools (36°C–41°C)
  • Acidic Priest Spring & Alkaline Rachel Spring pools
  • Cold plunge pool
  • Geothermally heated recliners
  • Towels, lockers & toiletries at the spa

Meeting Point

  • Polynesian Spa, 1000 Hinemoa Street, Lakeside, Rotorua
  • Please arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled departure time

 Age & Suitability

  • Suitable for ages 5 years and over
  • Children must be supervised by a responsible adult (18+)
  • Children aged 16 years and under must be accompanied by an adult
  • Ideal for families and first-time kayakers

Duration

  • Allow approximately 3 hours for the full kayaking experience (including transfers)
  • Spa entry can be used on the same day or the following day
  • No time limit applies at Polynesian Spa’s Deluxe Lake Spa

Weight & Equipment

  • Double sit-on-top kayaks are used for stability and comfort
  • Maximum combined weight per kayak: 220kg

Tour Timing

  • Operates in the evening (sunset to night) for the best glowworm viewing
  • Stargazing possible in clear weather conditions
  • Winter departures offer earlier start times and darker skies

Polynesian Spa Access

  • Deluxe Lake Spa open daily: 9:00am – 11:00pm
  • Last pool entry: 10:00pm
  • Includes towels, lockers, and premium toiletries
  • Children must be supervised according to spa safety guidelines

Weather Policy

  • Tours operate in most weather conditions where safe
  • If conditions are unsuitable, you will be contacted to reschedule
  • Weather decisions are made with safety as the top priority
  • Adult: 13 years +
  • Children: 5-12 years
  • Minimum Age: 5 years
  • Full refund* for cancellations made more than 48 hours before hire or tour.
  • No refund for cancellations within 48 hours.

Weather: Given the nature of our tours/hires being outdoors, we operate in all weather conditions and recommend that you dress appropriately for the weather. We can not be held responsible for any adverse weather conditions while you are on tour/hire with us and as such any refunds are at our discretion and we are under no obligation to do so.

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

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