Rotorua Okere Falls: Zipline, Waterfalls & Māori Tea Tasting

Summary

Soar above Kaituna River waterfalls with local stories and forest air

You’ll fly over roaring waterfalls near Rotorua on ziplines with local guides who know every twist of the Kaituna River. Walk through ancient native bush, pause for Māori tea among ferns, and help restore Okere Falls by planting a tree in your name. It’s equal parts thrill and connection — something you’ll remember long after your feet touch ground again.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect my hands to shake a little as I clipped onto the first zipline at Okere Falls — maybe it was the cool mist coming off the Kaituna River below, or just nerves. Our guide, Hana, grinned and told us to look out for tūī birds darting through the branches. The forest here in Rotorua feels dense and alive, all mossy trunks and that earthy smell you get after rain. I could hear the river before I saw it — kind of roaring but friendly at the same time.

The first flight over the water was wild — not scary exactly, but my heart definitely thumped. You catch these flashes of whitewater rapids underneath, then suddenly you’re gliding past ferns that brush your ankles if you let your feet hang. Hana pointed out a tree she’d helped plant last year (they actually plant one for every guest — I thought that was just marketing but nope, it’s real). There’s something grounding about knowing you leave a tiny mark behind.

We stopped on a swing bridge for a breather while Hana shared some local stories — she laughed when I tried to say “Ōkere Awa” properly (I’m still not sure I got it right). The light filtered through in stripes and everything smelled like wet leaves. At one point we had this old-school Māori tea together; it tasted herbal and smoky, not what I expected but kind of perfect after flying around like birds. The whole thing took about two and a half hours but honestly, time went weird — parts felt fast and other bits you just want to stand still for a second longer.

I keep thinking about that moment hanging above the river — wind in my face, shoes damp from brushing leaves. If you’re looking for a day trip from Rotorua with some adrenaline plus those quieter pauses where you actually notice where you are… yeah, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zipline adventure over waterfalls and forest

• Get geared up and briefed
• Zip over Kaituna River
• Glide over three waterfalls
• Cross swing bridges and boardwalks
• Learn Māori stories and reforestation

Top questions

How long does the Okere Falls zipline experience take?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours from start to finish.

Is there any walking involved during the Rotorua zipline tour?

Yes, expect about 600 meters of easy walking along boardwalks and trails.

Are there any weight or health restrictions?

The weight limit is 130kg. It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Do I need previous ziplining experience?

No prior experience is needed; guides provide full instructions before starting.

Is pickup included in this day trip from Rotorua?

No mention of pickup is included; check directly with Rotorua Ziplines for transport options.

What makes this different from other zipline tours?

You’ll fly over three waterfalls, learn Māori stories from local guides, taste traditional tea, and plant a native tree as part of reforestation efforts.

Are photos included in the tour price?

Yes, free photos are included so you can relive your adventure later.

Is lunch provided during the Okere Falls zipline experience?

No lunch is mentioned; however, an ancient Māori tea tasting is included during the tour.

What’s included

Your adventure includes full safety gear and guidance from local experts as you soar on ziplines above Kaituna River’s waterfalls. You’ll cross swing bridges through native forest, enjoy an ancient Māori tea tasting mid-tour, receive free photos of your experience, and even leave behind a newly planted native tree in your name as part of their reforestation project.