Jet boat & hot springs in Rotorua: Manupirua soak

Speed across two lakes, then soak in a hidden hot spring

A 2.5-hour jet boat activity in Rotorua that takes you at high speed across Lake Rotorua and through the Ohau Channel to Lake Rotoiti, ending with a one-hour soak in the geothermal pools at Manupirua Hot Springs. The hot springs are only reachable by boat, and entry is included. Children from age 2 are welcome. A minimum of six people per trip is required.

The experience

The jet boat cuts across Lake Rotorua at high speed, then threads through the Ohau Channel before reaching Lake Rotoiti. You wear a lifejacket and optional spray jacket for the ride. The boat delivers you to Manupirua Hot Springs, a geothermal site set on the water's edge that has no road access. This is the only way in.

Once there, you have a full hour to soak in the hot pools. The water is naturally heated and the setting is quiet, a sharp contrast to the speed of the boat ride that got you there. A professional driver and guide is with you throughout. The whole experience runs 2.5 hours, and the activity operates in all weather, so bring layers suited to the conditions.

Children from age 2 can come along if accompanied by an adult. The boat and all areas are wheelchair accessible. A minimum of six people per trip applies, though you can call ahead if your group is smaller and wants to inquire about availability.

What’s included

• Lifejacket and optional spray jacket.
• entry to Manupirua Hot Springs.
• one-hour soak in the geothermal pools.
• professional driver and guide for the full 2.5 hours. Photos are available to purchase.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 13:00

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (15 and older) · Child (5 to 14 years) · Infant (2 to 4 years): free

GroupUp to 50

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “IMPORTANT: YOU MUST ARRIVE 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO YOUR BOOKING TIME. If you do not, you may miss your trip and you will not be able to reschedule or receive a refund.”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 6 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Katoa Jet

Is this one for you?Book this if you want the speed and thrill of a jet boat combined with a long, quiet soak: the high-speed ride and the hour in the hot springs balance each other. The minimum group size of six means you'll share the boat with others, so it's built for small groups rather than private bookings.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 14 years); Infant (2 to 4 years): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the Manupirua Hot Springs like when we arrive?

Manupirua Hot Springs is a geothermal site on the shore of Lake Rotoiti with naturally heated pools. It's peaceful and remote, reachable only by boat or plane, and you'll have a full hour to soak there.

How fast does the jet boat go?

The boat travels at high speed across the lakes. You'll wear a lifejacket and optional spray jacket for the ride, and a professional guide operates the boat throughout.

What happens if our group is smaller than six people?

A minimum of six people per trip is required. If your group is smaller, you can call ahead to ask about availability or to see if other bookings can be combined.

Is this activity accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, the boat and all areas including the hot pools are wheelchair accessible. Public transportation options are also available nearby if you need them.