Overview
Join us for an adventure not to be missed at Rhapsody Rotorua, a week-long music festival that will stimulate students' musical development through performance, adjudication and professional coaching, whilst immersing them in the adrenaline-fueled activities of the North Island’s adventure capital.
Itinerary
Rhapsody Rotorua Youth Music Festival
- Performing Arts
- Music Festivals
Day 1
Travel to New Zealand (Auckland)
Travel to Rotorua
Before you see Rotorua, you may smell it first: sulphur. It’s a fitting introduction to a city shaped by geothermal forces. Rotorua offers a striking look at volcanic activity, with steam rising across the city from several thermal areas. One of its geysers erupts multiple times each day, sending water high into the air.
Day 2
Local school performance, adjudication and workshop
Hobbiton™ Movie Set guided visit
Step into the world of The Shire on a guided visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, located on a working sheep farm. Learn how the detailed outdoor set was created, from handcrafted props to cinematic illusions used during filming. Your guide shares behind-the-scenes stories before the visit concludes at the Green Dragon Pub.
Agrodome New Zealand farm visit
Located in the heart of scenic farmland, this world-famous farm show offers a fun and educational look at New Zealand’s agricultural traditions. Learn about the various breeds of sheep found across the country, and when in season, enjoy a visit to the Farmyard Nursery.
Welcome gala event and dinner
Evening dance party
After the show and dinner the lights dim down for the final dance party.
Day 3
Local school performance, adjudication and workshop
First performance - Public concert
Enjoy your first live public concert of the week.
First rehearsal - Specialist groups rehearsal
Māori cultural experience and hāngī feast
Take part in a powerful welcome onto sacred grounds and into a Māori village. Experience traditional customs including the wero challenge, whaikōrero speeches and hongi greeting. Learn about Māori history through song, dance, poi and haka, then enjoy a buffet dinner prepared in a traditional hāngī beneath the ground.
Day 4
Skyline Rotorua Gondola and 3 Luge rides
Sit back and enjoy the ride as the Skyline Rotorua Gondola lifts you high above Rotorua and Lake Rotorua for sweeping views of the region. At the top, take an exciting Luge ride through more than a kilometre of Redwood forest, choosing your own pace along the track. Ride the chairlift back up for additional views, and take time to explore the Jelly Belly Store and the jelly bean art gallery at the summit.
Local school performance, adjudication and workshop
Second rehearsal - Specialist group rehearsal
Enjoy another exciting public performance.
Second performance - Public concert
Enjoy another exciting public performance.
Day 5
Clinic workshop 1
Choose from a list supplied by the music director.
Third rehearsal - Specialist group rehearsal
Clinic workshop 2
Choose from a list supplied by music director.
Third performance - Public concert
Enjoy another exciting public performance.
Day 6
Rotorua adventure and adrenaline experience
Get your adrenaline pumping with a day of adventure featuring world-exclusive rides born from Kiwi innovation. Choose your own thrill with experiences such as the Agrojet, Swoop, Shweeb Racer or Freefall Xtreme.
Geothermal reserve guided visit
Visit a geothermal reserve and discover the remarkable natural forces that have shaped the landscape. Explore unique geothermal features while learning about the volcanic and geothermal processes that continue to transform the region today.
Final dinner and presentation evening
Enjoy a delicious dinner followed by a special school presentation, where gold, silver, and bronze certificates will be awarded to all participating groups.
Evening dance party
After the show and dinner the lights dim down for the final dance party.
Day 7
Return home
Optional Extension
Extend Your Time in Auckland
Experience two sides of New Zealand’s culture with an interactive guided visit to the All Blacks Experience and a behind-the-scenes look at movie magic. Explore the history, traditions, and cultural significance of New Zealand rugby, including the meaning and power of the haka. Then, visit Wētā Workshop Unleashed to discover how practical effects, creatures, sets, and other cinematic creations are brought to life.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing in October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more meaningful learning moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Select transport options that suit your group's needs
- Choose from a variety of accommodation styles to support your level of comfort
Dine Your Way
- Choose pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2 course meals at local restaurants or at your accommodation, with the option to upgrade to 3 courses
Inclusions
Accommodations
Transportation to and from your destination
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Adjudications, workshops, clinics and performances as per itinerary
Daily meals with options varying by program
Entrance fees to attractions as per itinerary
Guided sightseeing tours and city walks as per itinerary
WorldStrides on‑site event team
Scenes from Rhapsody Rotorua
Health, Safety & Protection
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Request a Quote
Ready to turn this itinerary into an unforgettable learning experience? Tell us about your school, group and travel plans, and our team will create a tailored quote for your next adventure.