Scott Dunn: ANYTHING ELSE IS JUST A HOLIDAY

Tiua – meaning ‘to move with the wind’ in the indigenous Maori language – is an enchanting vessel that explores the bays and natural hot springs of Lake Rotoiti that are only accessible by boat. In the hands of your experienced crew, learn about the history of the area and how Lake Rotoiti came to obtain its name. You’ll have the chance to sail the vessel and trim the sails, weather permitting, you might like to take a swim in the lake or wait until you reach the southern end of the lake and step ashore to bath in the natural hot springs at Manupirua.

White Island (or Whakaari as it was named by the Maori before Europeans arrived) is one of New Zealand’s most active volcanoes and a stunning and fascinating place to visit. But don’t worry, the constant rumblings and large plume of steam do not mean that the island is about to explode. White Island’s active volcanic vents, steaming Crater Lake, bubbling hot streams and desolate mining ruins combined create a surreal experience and you can disembark the helicopter to explore this unique destination. When flying over the Bay of Plenty, the sighting of Dolphins in the Pacific Ocean below is not uncommon and adds an extra special dimension to this amazing trip.

The Treetops stable includes horses for all levels of rider from absolute beginners through to experienced horsemen and women. And there is no doubt that horseback is an incomparable way to take in the sights and sounds of the estate. Let their experienced horseman, Diddy, lead you along trails that wind through native bush and open grassland to view rushing streams, tumbling waterfalls, deer, buffalo, and many birds. Horse riding lessons are also available for those that wish to brush up on their skills before heading out into the wilds.

With around 90km of continually evolving trails, there is something to cater for all levels of rider, from beginners and family groups through to experts looking for extreme action. The trails weave their way through lush native ferns beneath soaring forest canopies of Redwood, Radiata, Douglas Fir, Eucalyptus and Larch. Riders are often afforded glimpses of Rotorua’s beautiful lakes, geothermal activity and brooding Mt. Tarawera. A suggestion for your day – let your Guide take you on a private tour with up to 3 hours riding using quality bikes and helmets.

The Lake Spa Retreat offers unique and very exclusive bathing in four hot mineral natural rock pools. Views from the pools extend past the beautiful garden setting and over Lake Rotorua. A luxury spa includes salt body scrubs, mud wraps and the famous Aix water therapy massage. An enticing array of spa therapies, massage therapies and hydro spa therapies are offered at the unique Lake Spa Retreat. Fabulously, all spa therapies include deluxe Lake Spa bathing! Amid native New Zealand flora and overlooking Lake Rotorua, the Lake Spa Retreat is Polynesian Spa’s inviting relaxation haven for spa therapy guests.