rotorua canopy tours nz

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Soar through the trees and experience New Zealand’s ancient forest like never before – in two award-winning zipline adventures. Lose yourself on this engaging encounter with the natural world, exploring ancient native forest via ziplines, suspended swing bridges, treetop platforms and more on this unforgettable nature adventure.

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147 Fairy Springs Road, Rotorua

+64 7 343 1001 | show

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The 3 Best Rotorua Canopy Tours [2024 Reviews]

Sitting right in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Rotorua is a fascinating area teeming with natural wonders and cultural richness.

One of the most captivating attractions here is the Rotorua Canopy, allowing participants to venture through the lush native forests and ancient treetops!

I’ve gone ahead and carefully curated a guide to the 3 top Rotorua canopy zipline tours out there, that are all worth your time and money. I know you’re anxious to get started, so let’s jump right in!

Best Rotorua Zipline Experiences

Quick answer: the 3 best rotorua canopy tours for 2024.

• Ziplining Forest Adventure – The Original Canopy Tour Rotorua
• Ziplining Forest Experience – The Ultimate Canopy Tour Rotorua
• Okere Falls Zipline Experience

Rotorua Canopy Tour Reviews

1. ziplining forest adventure – the original canopy tour rotorua.

• Duration:  3 hours
• Location: Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Start Time: 7:15 AM – 5:00 PM
• Includes:  Safety equipment, two professional guides, photos available for download, wet weather clothing and warmer garments

Starting things off on the right foot, we have the Ziplining Forest Adventure – The Original Canopy Tour Rotorua ! Whether you’re into nature and animals, or are an adrenaline junkie, this tour will definitely give you what you’re looking for.

With friendly, professional guides to help you throughout every step of the process, you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands while you have some of the most fun ever!

I loved the fact that the guide/driver came right to our hotel lobby to pick us up, so we didn’t have to deal with sorting out separate transportation and risking getting lost.

We also got to choose between many different start times, making it very easy to fit into our busy schedule. Our vehicle was very comfortable, air-conditioned, and spacious, making it perfect for enjoying the beautiful scenery outside as we cruised to the zipline starting point.

Once there, our guides gave us comprehensive lessons that were easy to follow – even for complete newbies like me! The walk to the first platform was pretty easy, and as we had all safety gear properly fitted to us, I felt confident that everything would go smoothly.

Zipping through the treetops was simply exhilarating, getting to enjoy all the local flora and fauna from quite possibly the best viewpoint possible.

In between all the racing around, we learned a ton about the area’s history and birdlife, as well as stories about the 500-year-old forest!

We learned all kinds of different zipline techniques between the 6 different lines, taking breaks on a couple different suspended bridges. Overall, it was a great way to spend a few hours in the wilderness, having fun with great people.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. ziplining forest experience – the ultimate canopy tour rotorua.

• Duration: 3.5 hours
• Location: 147 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua 3015
• Start Time: 7:15 AM – 3:15 PM
• Includes:  Safety gear included, Two professional guides, Shuttles included within Rotorua CBD, Complementary photos, All Fees and Taxes

Next up is yet another one of my favorite Rotorua Zipline tours, offering insight into this amazing ancient native forest and was unlike anything else I’ve ever experienced!

The Ziplining Forest Experience – The Ultimate Canopy Tour Rotorua  was great for me, as I’m a big nature lover yet I still love thrills, and this tour combined both aspects seamlessly.

Rather than disturbing nature and local wildlife, this tour actually placed a lot of importance on conservation efforts, teaching us about why it’s so important!

This tour did not include a hotel pickup which was just a bit disappointing, but was still quite easy to access by taxi, so no worries there. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the friendly staff who helped with directions and answered every question we had.

After being fitted with safety gear and given instructions on how to correctly use the zipline, we were able to head up to the first platform to try out our skills!

Soaring through the treetops, suspended high above the forest floor was definitely a rush of adrenaline, but was super addicting!

The panoramic views of the surrounding lush rainforest landscape were also amazing, learning about the local flora and fauna and the unique ecosystem that thrives here.

We had around 2 hours to zip through the rainforest, though it wasn’t all about the thrills – we also learned so much about the company’s commitment to sustainability and conservation.

The operators are dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and habitat to countless beings, and their eco-friendly business practices help ensure that future generations (and critters) are able to enjoy and live in this pristine wilderness.

For me, I’d say this trip is ideal for the entire family, as well as a first-time zipliner who may have been nervous to try it before. If you’re nervous about ziplining at all or don’t know how to begin, I can assure you that this is one of the best ways to learn.

3. Okere Falls Zipline Experience

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Location: 761 State Highway 33, Okere Falls 3074
• Start Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Includes: Zipline over Tutea Falls, 2 local guides, sample Māori teas, private transportation

Sitting amidst the jaw-dropping landscapes of NZ’s North Island, the Rotorua Canopy is simply a place that you can’t miss.

The Okere Falls Zipline Experience Tour  is an exhilarating adventure for anyone of any background or age who’d like to gain a new perspective on the region’s natural beauty and history.

Something that I didn’t know before was the Maori spirit and connection to the culture here, and I appreciated how well our guides transmitted that to us.

Just like the previous tour, this one also did not include a complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, though finding the starting location wasn’t difficult at all. Not to mention, there are complimentary shuttles once you’re there, making it that much more convenient.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the friendly staff who helped fit us for all safety gear, give us a briefing, and answered any questions we had.

You could tell that this experience was carefully thought out by people who have a deep passion for the natural habitat to countless creatures, as well as ancient

Maori history and culture. We started things out by heading up to the first platform with a staff member there to guide us and help us with our form before zipping through the beautiful, lush canopy!

I saw all kinds of different trees and even a couple of local animals as I zoomed by, which was so awesome!

After enjoying the 4 different ziplines, swing bridge, and boardwalks, our local guides shared with us plenty of interesting stories about the ancient forest and their ancestors who placed incredible value on the area.

We even got to try some ancient Maori teas, which were delicious, before planting a native tree in our own names, essentially becoming part of their conservation efforts.

It was such an exhilarating yet heartwarming afternoon spent with amazing people who I can’t wait to see again next time I take this tour!

Tour Guides

The Ziplining Forest Adventure - The Original Canopy Tour Rotorua is Editors Choice for the best Rotorua canopy tour

Robert Baker

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Journey deep into a pre historic native forest via zip line, swing bridge & stunning trails.

An unforgettable all weather journey that is perfect for all.

The only place in the world you can soar from the treetops of giant rimu.

Soar over a ancient native forest that has stood for centuries.

Be inspired by our friendly kiwi guides and their interpretive education as they take you on an amazing adventure.

Perfect for all ages - children & adults alike love this unique eco adventure.

Experience New Zealand like it once was in an award-winning adventure.

Soar through the trees and experience New Zealand’s ancient forest like never before. Voted Tripadvisor's #1 Nature Activity in the world. Journey with authentic Kiwi guides through this beautiful land the way it once was.

The Original Canopy Tour - Rotorua Canopy Tours

147 Fairy Springs Road , Rotorua Central , New Zealand .

Voted TripAdvisor’s #1 Nature Activity on the planet. Loose yourself ziplining through lush native forest that has stood for centuries. This 3-hour adventure mixes fun, education, and conservation together to create unforgettable memories.

Pricing and Conditions

Rotorua Canopy Tours is an adventure activity that has risks and the potential to encounter hazards due to the nature of the activity and the unpredictable natural environment in which the tour operates. Specific hazards and risks include but are not limited to vehicle accidents, falls from height, zipline collisions, entanglement in equipment, slips and falls, falling debris, staff errors, suspension trauma, exposure to typical New Zealand conservation practices.

Rotorua Canopy Tours reserves the right to cancel any tour if conditions deem it unsafe to operate. Unfortunately we can not take customers who weigh more than 120kg. Children must be at least 6 years of age to come on the Original Canopy Tour.

The Original Canopy Tour is an unforgettable and enlightening adventure, perfect for all ages. Your amazing kiwi guides will lead your personal and unforgettable adventure deep into ancient native forest in small groups, of up to 10 people. Zipline through 1000-year-old trees, wander across swing bridges and experience some of New Zealand’s rare flora and fauna. It’s the perfect combination of fun and excitement amidst a spectacular forest environment. Every Canopy Tours experience is 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed or your money back. This is not a gimmick; this is us backing our experience and allowing you to experience Canopy Tours with risk-free confidence.

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Rotorua canopy tours, premium north island destination, getting you attached with two unrivalled adventures, we have two tours to choose from., our world-class original canopy tour and the next level, ultimate canopy tour..

Whether you’re stepping off for the first time or a seasoned pro, our tours will match every appetite for adventure. Immersing you into the ancestral lands of Tura Te Ngākau Ki Ngongotahā, our ancient native forest, Okoheriki (Dansey Reserve), is just 15 minutes from central Rotorua. The forest’s secret entrance is only used by Canopy Tours and is the setting for your unrivalled adventure.

ORIGINAL CANOPY TOUR

Discover adventure. Discover nature. Discover yourself

The Original Canopy Tour will transport you into an ancient forest, elevate you above the canopy, while exhibiting the beauty of New Zealand’s unique natural identity.

This can only be truly discovered with your feet off the ground!! We have conjured up the perfect mixture of breath-taking swing bridges, tree-based platforms, a conservation trail, and of course, exhilarating ziplines! Our expert team will guide you through every point with care, humour, and professionalism, while ensuring your absolute safety! Come with us and immerse yourself in our remarkable forest landscape.

Exhilaration and nature, who wouldn’t get attached?

THE ULTIMATE CANOPY TOUR

Secrets unearthed. A deeper, faster adventure unveils

While immersed in an ancient forest, you’ll traverse a 250,000-year-old volcanic cliff, absorb stunning views of Lake Rotorua at the top of our three-storied floating staircase, and race down an epic 400-m tandem zipline!

Unveiling New Zealand’s natural identity around every corner, this Ultimate experience keeps giving! Transporting you further into the lush canopy with longer zip lines, higher suspended swing bridges, and a one-of-a-kind custom-built spiral staircase. Our expert team will keep you attached at every point while the Ultimate Canopy Tour elevates all your senses.

Adventure, ancient architecture, New Zealand’s only cliff walk. How can’t you get attached?

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phone: 0800 226679

email: [email protected]

website: www.canopytours.co.nz

address: 147 Fairy Springs Road, Rotorua

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Rotorua Canopy Tours Zipline Adventure Activities

Zipline Adventure Tours - Rotorua Canopy Tours

Zipline through ancient new zealand forest at rotorua canopy tours.

Craving an unparalleled eco-adventure in New Zealand? Look no further than Rotorua Canopy Tours, consistently ranked the #1 Nature Activity in the world by TripAdvisor! Prepare to be exhilarated as you zipline through the lush canopy of Rotorua’s ancient native forest, a wonderland teeming with diverse plant and bird life. 

Our captivating tours offer a thrilling combination of ziplines, suspended swing bridges, and expertly crafted treetop platforms, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. 

Led by our passionate and knowledgeable guides, Rotorua Canopy Tours promises an unforgettable experience that is both exhilarating and educational. Learn about the delicate ecosystem of the ancient forest and discover the rich cultural heritage of the region. 

Rotorua Canopy Tours prioritizes sustainable practices, ensuring minimal impact on the environment while maximizing your enjoyment. 

Join us at Rotorua Canopy Tours and unlock a world of adventure amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of New Zealand’s ancient forest.

Book your unforgettable zipline experience today!

Rotorua Zipline Canopy Tour - The Original

Embark on an unforgettable eco-adventure with Rotorua Canopy Tours’ award-winning Original Canopy Tour, consistently voted the #1 Nature Activity on TripAdvisor worldwide! This exhilarating 3-hour exploration delves into the heart of a pristine ancient forest, teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

Soar Through the Canopy: Experience the thrill of navigating over 600 meters of ziplines, offering exhilarating bursts of speed and breathtaking views of the forest canopy. 

Unparalleled Vistas: Ascend to our highest platform, reaching a staggering 22 meters above the forest floor. Gaze across the treetops and marvel at the unique perspective of this ancient ecosystem. 

Traverse Suspended Thrills: Test your balance and conquer your fears on our strategically placed swing bridges, offering a thrilling connection between different parts of the forest. 

Encounter New Zealand’s Native Wonders: Keep your eyes peeled for the abundant birdlife that calls this forest home. With a little luck, you might even have the opportunity to hand-feed these beautiful native creatures. 

Knowledgeable Guides: Our passionate and experienced guides ensure your safety throughout the tour while sharing their insights into the forest’s delicate ecosystem and fascinating cultural heritage. 

Sustainable Tourism: Rotorua Canopy Tours prioritizes responsible practices, minimizing impact on the environment while maximizing your enjoyment. 

Join us on the Original Canopy Tour and unlock a world of exhilarating adventure, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable encounters with New Zealand’s natural wonders. Book your eco-adventure today!

• #1 Nature Activity in the world! – TripAdvisor
• 600m of ziplines
• Swing Bridges
• Hand feed wild native bir

Rotorua Zipline Canopy Tour - The Ultimate

Price: Adult $259 per person – Child $229 pp ( age 10 to 15 ) – Family $679 ( 2 adults + 2 Children ) Duration:   3.5 hours guided tour. Group Size: Maximum 10 persons

Craving an unparalleled adrenaline rush amidst the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s ancient forest? Look no further than Rotorua Canopy Tours’ Ultimate Canopy Tour! This action-packed 3.5-hour adventure surpasses even our award-winning Original Canopy Tour, taking you on a thrilling journey through the heart of a pristine natural wonderland. 

Epic Zipline Extravaganza: Prepare to soar across an incredible 1,200 meters of ziplines, reaching exhilarating speeds and offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the untouched forest below. 

Unforgettable Encounters: Challenge yourself on our heart-stopping cliff-face walkway, suspended a staggering 50 meters above the forest floor. Navigate thrilling swing bridges and experience the controlled descent for a truly unique perspective. 

Share the Thrill: Experience the rush of our longest zipline (a whopping 400 meters!) alongside a friend or family member on our tandem zipline.

We’ve even incorporated a special braking system on one of our most scenic ziplines, allowing you to savor the awe-inspiring views.

Explore Unspoiled Beauty: Glide across wide-open valleys and deep gorges, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of this ancient forest. This unforgettable experience offers a glimpse of New Zealand’s natural wonders unlike any other. 

Suitable for Adventurers 10+: The Ultimate Canopy Tour caters to thrill-seekers aged 10 and above, ensuring a fun and exciting experience for the whole family (with a sense of adventure!).

Book your Ultimate Canopy Tour today and unlock a world of exhilarating adventures, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable memories!

• TripAdvisor’s 11 th best Adventure Experience in the world!
• 1.2km of ziplines
• 400 metre tandem zipline – longest zipline!!
• Cliff face walk
• Spiral staircase
• Controlled decent

Rotorua Canopy Tour times:

Summer hours: 8am – 6pm (October-April)

Winter hours: 9am – 4pm (May – September)

Rotorua Canopy Tours appeals to all ages and is suitable for a wide range of people from children aged 6 through to grandparents – no experience is required. Their guides will take care of all the safety so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Rotorua Canopy Tours is an all-weather experience – the canopy in wet weather is magical beyond belief and you’ll be equipped to suit the conditions with high quality wet weather clothing.

The tour infrastructure has been built to ensure minimal environmental impact while also delivering unprecedented safety and comfort for all guests.

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Every Canopy Tours experience is 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed or your money back. This is not a gimmick; this is us backing our experience and allowing you to experience Canopy Tours with risk-free confidence.

Phone: +64 7 343 1001 Freephone: 0800 226679

Email: [email protected] Visit our Website:   www.canopytours.co.nz

          Return to Rotorua Page:

Sustainable Tourism Rotorua] [Eco-Friendly Activities Rotorua] [Native Forest Rotorua] [Ziplining Eco-Adventure] [Swing Bridges Rotorua] [Treetop Platforms New Zealand] [Scenic Views Rotorua] [Educational Tours Rotorua] [Cultural Tours Rotorua] [Guided Zipline Tours New Zealand] [Longest Zipline New Zealand]  [Hand feeding birds New Zealand] [Birdwatching Rotorua] [Ziplining Rotorua] [Tandem Zipline New Zealand) [Ultimate Zipline Experience]

Booking for rotorua canopy tours zipline adventure activities.

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Ziplining - Original Canopy Tour Rotorua

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• Reviews (20)
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Ziplining Original Canopy Tour in Rotorua

• Ask a Question
• Ranked #1 nature activity in the world
• 6 ziplines - 600m of ziplining
• 3 hour adventure zipline
• Photos included

Description

If you have ever felt compelled to swing through the trees like Tarzan, this is as close as you will get! Rotorua Canopy Tours – New Zealand’s only native forest zipline canopy tour – allows you to experience the wonders of the ancient New Zealand native forest in a totally unique and exciting way.

The Rotorua Canopy tour guides are passionate, professional and friendly and will walk you through the history of the forest, pointing out some of the most unique flora and fauna in the world. As you progress through the 1.2km adventure trail, you will learn about the conservation challenges made to preserve the spectacular 500 hectare forest, and how part of your admission fee will help to restore the forest to a pre human eco system. You can breathe in the fresh, clean air – knowing that you have helped contribute to such a great cause!

The Original Tour

Your three-hour journey meanders through the treetops via walking trails, swing bridges, platforms and ziplines/ flying foxes at heights of up to 40 metres above the ground! The high platforms – attached to 500 year-old trees up to 22 metres high – will take your breath away as you gaze down at unexplored valleys; while the tight openings through the forest sub canopy will make you feel as though you are exploring an ancient, mythical world. The six ziplines will add an exhilarating edge to your journey, with some up to 40 metres above ground level and up to 220 metres long. The tree-to-tree swingbridges will delight you, with some spanning up to 50 metres long. There’s truly no better way to explore the beauty of New Zealand’s native forests!

Trip Includes

• Complimentary pick up & drop off available from city accommodation
• FREE photos included
• Part of your admission fee contributes directly to our conservation fund
• Introduction, harness fitting & safety briefing
• 2 expert guides accompany your group with a maximum of 10 guests
• Allow 3 hours
• Regular departures between 8:00am - 3:30pm. Additional times available during busy months
• Meet at Rotorua Canopy HQ, 147 Fairy Springs road, Rotorua or pick up from your city accommodation
• Operates daily all year

Other Information

• If you want something higher, longer & more spectacular then check out the Ultimate Canopy Tour
• Maximum weight limit 120kg
• Minimum age for Original Tour is 6 years. Please advise if your child weighs less than 35kg
• Children are unable to go on the tour without a participating adult.
• Rotorua Canopy Tours operates in all weather conditions except high winds & electrical storms. The forest is at its most beautiful during rain
• Please dress with an additional layer of clothing & closed toe footwear
• You will be provided with wet weather gear (if required) & all safety equipment
• You are welcome to bring your camera but it must have a small strap that can be attached to your harness

Normal Retail Price

• Adult (16 yrs+) NZD$179.00
• Child (6-15yrs) NZD$149.00

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All prices shown in NZD$.

Genuine Customer Reviews powered by

Service rating:

Good communication. Very easy to deal with. Some really great deals on offer.

Product rating:

The Rotorua Canopy Tour was amazing. Would definitely do it again.

Reviewed 07-Jan-2020

Reply from Everything Travel Group

Thank you so much for your feedback. We really appreciate you taking the time to tell us about your great experience. We hope you had an amazing time in New Zealand!

Posted 12-Jan-2020

The guides were fantastic, very informative. Everything was done extremely well from start to finish.

Great value for money and a fun experience.

Reviewed 18-Feb-2019

From purchasing the ticket for a gift to booking on the day was simple. Confirmation of the booking was efficient as had less than 24 hours and organising a party of 3 was challenging given the holiday season

Great staff on tour although staff member on desk was pre occupied when trying to find my booking and spent more time talking to her colleagues than attending to us

Reviewed 25-Dec-2018

Everything was super great. Loved the whole experience

Loved the whole experience :D

Reviewed 18-Dec-2018

We appreciated them changing the date of out trip when Cyclone Gita was threatening.

Everything was exciting and safe.

Reviewed 24-Feb-2018

The girls looked after my Husband with patience’s and care as he has got Alzheimer’s and he did forget what to do each time he did the zip line . We had a great morning with lots of laughs out in the forest and would recommend it to anyone to put it on their bucket list . Many Thanks Richard & Anita Keller

I did it online and it was easy .

Reviewed 19-Feb-2018

Totally blew us all away, they were all fabulous.

Great communication and value for money

Reviewed 23-Jan-2018

Enjoyed the whole experience. Ziplines and bridges were fun and were performed with upmost safety by the tour guides. The tour guides were humorous, encouraging, supportive and adapted their style to each individual's level of confidence. I also enjoyed getting to feed and name the native birds, and learning about the forest and their conservation efforts.

Enjoyed the whole experience. Ziplines and bridges were fun and were performed with upmost safety by the tour guides. The tour guides were humorous, encouraging, supportive and adapted their style to each individual's level of confidence. I also enjoyed getting to feed and name the native birds, and learning about the forest and their conservation efforts

Reviewed 05-Jul-2017

Brilliant and fun

Reviewed 25-Jan-2017

Very helpful and efficient

Great guides Scott and cam

Reviewed 21-Apr-2016

Fast response to booking process. Easy to use website.

A great way to spend an afternoon. The tour guides were very focused on the groups safety, without being overly obvious. Very calming effect for the slightly nervous amongst us. Would recommend to anybody, young or older.

Reviewed 06-Apr-2016

Great guides. Fun, safe, and informative

Excellent service.

Reviewed 17-Jan-2016

Great servvice

Absolutely fabulous value for money!

Reviewed 12-Jan-2016

Brilliant we thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience

Reviewed 10-Jan-2016

Prompt response and helpful

Had an amazing time - absolutely loved it

Reviewed 13-Jul-2015

Excellent, our group really enjoyed the experience of the Zipline and safety standards couldn't be faulted. We had a fun time. Excellent job guys.

A must to do, great presentation and a fun time.

Reviewed 04-Nov-2014

easy to book,great communication.great day

had a great day with our guides Cam and Shane. lots of fun with some great conservation info shared.They interacted well with everyone on the trip and we will highly recommend this trip.I work in the tourist industry in Whakatane and often get asked for recommendations of things to do in rotorua so Rotorua Canopy tours will be top of my "to do "list

Reviewed 03-Sep-2014

Quick and easy. Very hassle free.

Great experience. A lot of fun. Super professional, super safe environment.

Reviewed 16-Jan-2014

Nice and easy way of booking. No need to worry about having to pay on the day it was already taken care of, all we need to do was turn up and have fun.

Well organised and professionally run, guides were excellent with great personalities to make the experience all the more enjoyable. Fantastic value for money, and knowing your money is going towards the conservation of this forest and its wildlife makes it even better. This is a must do in Rotorua, I am scared of heights but still had a fantastic time and felt safe all the way thanks to our guides. I recommend this as a must do activity.

Reviewed 10-Jan-2014

Thoroughly enjoyed our tour - great guides

Reviewed 07-Oct-2013

Latest Questions about Ziplining - Original Canopy Tour (Rotorua)

Gold card discount?

Hi Tony, Thank you for your query. Unfortunately, we don't offer Gold Card Discounts for this activity. We can, however, offer special rates and our own discounts if you are keen!

Comment by: ETG on 22nd Jan 21 at 12:50

1 comment - Post a Comment

Is there a weight please on the rototua canopy tour Thanks Angela

Hi Angela! Yes the maximum weight limit is 120kg and you must advise us if your child weighs less than 35kg

Comment by: The Everything Travel Group (Sally) on 28th Feb 18 at 15:31

I want to bring three children aged 12 and 13 to do the zip line tour. Is it necessary for me the adult to accompany the children on the zip line?

Heya, Children under the age of 15 do need to be accompanied by an adult... Time to channel your inner monkey haha.

Comment by: Alicia - Everything New Zealand on 17th Sep 17 at 14:27

hi do you operate on days like this bit drizzly we live in papamoa

Yes, Rotorua Canopy Tours operates in all weather conditions except high winds & electrical storms. The forest is at its most beautiful during rain.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group on 16th Feb 17 at 14:32

I am thinking of a gift voucher for my sister's birthday - is the zipline included in the canopy tour? How long would she have to use the voucher? Do you have any special arrangements with any hotels? Thank you. Clare Cramond, Hamilton

Yes, the Zipline is included in the canopy tour in Rotorua. If you book a gift voucher, your sister will have 12 months to use it. If she needs longer then just contact us before the gift voucher expires and we can extend for you for another year free of charge. 

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 10th May 16 at 10:12

Hi there is this safe to do when 17 weeks pregnant.?

We really don't recommend participating in any adventure activity while pregnant, however please do consult your doctor or physician to get proper medical advice.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 9th May 16 at 14:18

Is there a weight ristriction

The maximum weight for the Rotorua Canopy Tour is 120kg.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Alex Roberts) on 11th Jan 16 at 10:31

Hi Guys, My wife and I are thinking of booking a trip with you next Saturday 26/9/15 for 4 its my daughters 13th birthday, time as yet not known, what happens if its raining on the day before we leave, do you still carry on or would you re-book??? I look forward to your reply. Thanks Doug.

Hi Doug, the Canopy Tour still operates during the rain and you are given the necessary gear to keep you warm and dry if need be. As you are under the tree canopy you are quite sheltered so you don't get too wet.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 20th Sep 15 at 15:32

Can you do groups of approximately 35 persons and if so is there a group price?

Hi Janice, yes a group of 35 of you can do the Rotorua Canopy Tour however you would be split into 4 tours as the maximum that can be taken at once is 10 and you would be set off 15 minutes apart. It would take each group of 10 about 2.5 hours to complete the tour however the tour can be shortened slightly if need be. 

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 28th May 14 at 15:28

Is there a weight limit on flying foxes?

Comment by: Emily on 30th Nov 14 at 18:13

There is a maximum weight limit of 120kg on the Rotorua canopy tour.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group on 1st Dec 14 at 15:34

Do you have Go Pros available to hire please? If yrs, what is hire price?

Comment by: Linda on 20th Oct 16 at 19:30

Hi Linda, yes you can hire a GoPro camera for the Rotorua Canopy Tour and the cost is $65. You will be able to record your entire experience and you will get an 8GB SD card with your footage to take home with you.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 20th Oct 16 at 19:44

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Rotorua McDonald’s owners Rob and Linley Parry sell up

Rob and Linley Parry have sold their three McDonald's restaurants and are leaving Rotorua after 21 years.

Rob and Linley Parry have owned Rotorua ’s three McDonald’s restaurants for 21 years but are leaving to further their opportunities in Hamilton. They are credited with raising nearly $2m for charity, donating more than $1.4m in community sponsorship and building young people’s career aspirations. Senior journalist Kelly Makiha discovers why the Parrys are a big loss for Rotorua.

Ben Jaques stands up proudly in front of his workmates and bosses and says he never thought he’d ever be proud to say he worked at McDonald’s.

But as part of speeches at a farewell function this week for Rotorua franchise owners Rob and Linley Parry, the 27-year-old was among the many young people who paid tribute to the couple for being generous and aspirational leaders.

The Parrys have sold their three Rotorua stores - Fenton St, Fairy Springs Rd and Te Ngae Rd - and have bought three stores in Hamilton with the dream of owning the six others in the city if they come up for sale.

Jacques has worked for the Parrys for nearly 10 years and is now the Fenton St restaurant assistant manager.

“Before I moved here to Rotorua, I was never proud of working at McDonald’s. I was ashamed of it. I didn’t like to tell my family and friends. That was until I worked with you [the Parrys]. You have showed me a whole new side to the business and to take pride in it.”

Another staff member, Brae Thomson, told the Rotorua Daily Post at the event he was 15 when he started working at McDonald’s part-time. Half-way through Year 13, he realised his career goals under the Parrys were greater so he left school.

Now he’s 20, he’s jointly bought a house with the Parrys in Hamilton and has moved there to work as their restaurant manager in one of the stores they have bought.

Thomson said not only had the Parrys helped him get on the property ladder at such a young age but they were also showing him how he could one day own a McDonald’s franchise.

In the past 15 years, the Parrys have raised $1.4 million at 14 annual Supper Club fundraising events with all proceeds going to the Ronald McDonald Family Retreats in Rotorua. The retreats are used as getaways for families of sick children or those who have lost children.

They have also given out more than $1.4 million in sponsorships, including adult and children’s sports groups, kapa haka teams and through education grants at almost all schools in Rotorua.

Their generosity has been infectious with staff donating $250,000 from their pay during the past 15 years to the Rotorua-based Ronald McDonald Charities .

The scheme operates throughout New Zealand where McDonald’s staff are encouraged to donate between $1 and $5 a week to charity from their salaries.

Linley Parry said she was proud to say about three-quarters of their Rotorua staff donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities from their weekly payroll and those donations made up close to half of the payroll donations to the Ronald McDonald House Charities in New Zealand

Why they are leaving

Rob Parry told the Rotorua Daily Post they had had a great run in Rotorua but there were more McDonald’s restaurants to buy in Hamilton.

“We have had the time of our lives.”

He said they had bought three McDonald’s in Hamilton - 5 Cross Roads at Claudelands, Hamiton East and Chartwell Square - but the city had nine in total and possibly 10 in the future.

“That would create a great opportunity for us if we got [them] one day.”

He said their goal was to create a larger operation that their son, George, 21, would eventually take over.

George was now living in Hamilton and running one of the businesses there.

“Hopefully in a few years’ time, he would look at taking us over at some point.”

Rob Parry said they bought all three Rotorua McDonald’s 21 years ago - The Happy Homestead on Fairy Springs Rd (which later moved to a new premises across the road), Tutanekai St and Fenton St.

He said they tried hard to make the Tutanekai St restaurant work for the sake of Rotorua’s central business district but the turnover wasn’t enough.

He said it soon became a hang-out spot for the homeless and a suspicious fire in the toilets was the final straw. Instead, they swiftly opened a new restaurant on Te Ngae Rd at Hannah’s Bay.

When asked why they stayed in Rotorua for so long, Rob Parry was quick to respond.

“It’s the people, it’s a wonderful city, the culture you love, it’s made Linley and I better people.”

Despite publicly speaking out about the homeless issues and its impacts on his business, Rob Parry said that wasn’t what made them leave.

“It’s more the opportunities that arose in Hamilton. That was the main driver of our decision. We love this city, we will always love this city. It’s been really challenging, there’s no denying that but Hamilton has its issues too.”

Rob Parry said at his farewell function that he and Linley arrived in Rotorua 21 years ago from Fielding with their then 1-year-old son, George, and his baby brother, Tom, on the way.

“It was a huge slog. But we were lucky, right at the start.”

Part of their vision for staff and business came from the late Te Arawa kaumātua Mita Mohi.

“That man and his family embraced us and taught us how amazing Rotorua was and what a special city this was. We really appreciated the time we had with him. He took us all under his wing. After a couple of years ... we came to love this city of Rotorua.”

He said while business sales had grown immensely over the years, the best part of the job was seeing young staff members flourish.

“I know people my age tend to think of the youth of today as not broken or not where they want them to be. But I disagree. I think the youth of Rotorua is in really good hands because of what you guys do, how hard you work,” Rob Parry said at the function.

He described the staff as a like a “McFamily”.

The tightness of the group was evident early on when the former Happy Homestead restaurant on Fairy Springs Rd was the subject of an aggravated robbery. He got a call from police to say the robbers had been caught and were sitting in the restaurant with their hands on their heads.

“As it transpired, we did everything wrong. One of our staff ... was having nothing of it. He pulled him [the robber] through the window and went to town on them. Thankfully police got there.

Another staff member ‘‘turned up later with his machete because he heard we were under attack. This is how it was in those days”.

He said there had been difficult times but staff rose to the challenge.

Linley Parry said at the farewell function she was proud of the beautiful restaurants they had created.

“The new decor and bespoke carvings. The illuminated waharoa [entranceway]. There are no McDonald’s restaurants like ours in the world and we will always be proud of our piece in this story.”

She said while millions had been raised and donated over the years, none of it could have happened without the staff.

“Without you, our support wouldn’t have worked. You have brought the dream to life.”

She said she was proud of the staff who worked through the management development programmes, attended classes and completed training.

“For some, they achieved more success than they did at school. This is something Rob and I are really proud of.”

Deagan Williams was one of those staff members. He told the Rotorua Daily Post he was now a Rotorua McDonald’s department manager at 20.

He started working part-time at McDonald’s when he was 15 but he didn’t get excited about school.

“After my first year working part-time at McDonald’s, I realised I wanted to progress there and was fulltime at McDonald’s when I was 16 ... I saw how much more I could grow ... It’s kind of showed me that you can create a future and can grow more off McDonald’s and showed there is potential to go higher up.’'

Melissa and Luke Nuttall have bought McDonald’s Fenton St after owning their first franchise, McDonald’s Tokoroa, for the past 18 months

Originally from Christchurch, Melissa Nuttall said they were moving to Rotorua with their two children, aged 5 and 4.

“We are excited about this opportunity. It’s a little bit daunting filling the shoes of Rob and Linley as they are incredible people.”

Reuel and Zhen Christiansen have bought McDonald’s Te Ngae and Fairy Springs.

The Christiansens bought their first franchise, McDonald’s Matamata, three years ago.

“We have got a long history with McDonald’s, first working in a restaurant, then in the corporate office and working towards owning our own business,” Reuel Christiansen said.

They have sold their Matamata restaurant to buy the two in Rotorua.

“It’s a great opportunity to grow and we’re really looking forward to moving to Rotorua.”

Kelly Makiha is a senior journalist who has reported for the Rotorua Daily Post for more than 25 years, covering mainly police, court, human interest and social issues.

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The Original Canopy Tour - Book Now

Discover adventure. discover nature. discover yourself., the original canopy tour will transport you into an ancient forest, elevate you above the canopy, while exhibiting the beauty of new zealand’s unique natural identity..

This can only be truly discovered with your feet off the ground!! We have conjured up the perfect mixture of breath-taking swing bridges, tree-based platforms, a conservation trail, and of course, exhilarating ziplines! Our expert team will guide you through every point with care, humour, and professionalism, while ensuring your absolute safety! Come with us and immerse yourself in our remarkable forest landscape.

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Rotorua Canopy Tours Risk Disclosure Statement

Physical requirements.

Participants must be under 120kg (264.5lb), be comfortable with being at heights, able to walk on uneven terrain, cross swing bridges, and ascend stairs, see this link for specific tour requirements . Participants should be well fed and hydrated before arriving.

Participants should be prepared for physical demands if the tour needs to evacuate due to changes in weather or an emergency during the experience.  An evacuation would require walking up to 1 hour on uneven forested trails with small inclines, declines, soft ground, and exposed tree roots. At most times during the experience, we are over one hour from the nearest hospital. Guests with a history of cardiac complications, those with low fitness levels who may be strained with the exertion of exercise, or those with any other significant health-related complexities who may require immediate help are at risk of not receiving treatment promptly. Individuals with such conditions should seriously consider whether they can complete the experience safely and comfortably. Emergency Services are not able to access most locations easily within the forest. Please contact us before booking if you have any concerns.

We take all practical steps to ensure your safety throughout the experience but by acknowledging this risk disclosure you and anyone you are booking for are aware that we can’t fully mitigate all risk and hazards and your safety cannot be fully guaranteed.