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Best things to do in Rotorua, New Zealand
How can a place so smelly be so awesome? From relaxing hot pools to the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, to colorful geothermal parks and Maori culture, to incredible nature and adrenaline-pumping activities like rolling down hills in an inflatable ball. or rolling down hills in an inflatable ball.
Rotorua really packs in a punch and there are plenty of options when choosing what to do in Rotorua!
Yet, my first to visit to this smelly town wasn’t that great. Believe it or not, I got chickenpox for the second time (at age 27, mind you!) and all I saw was the doctor’s office and the inside of my room. Fortunately, I was able to return (several times, lucky me!) and experience all (ok not all, but a lot of) the best things Rotorua has to offer.
5 Unmissable Things to do in Rotorua
Short on time? These are the top 5, most unique things to do in Rotorua that you absolutely shouldn’t miss out on!
1. Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland
2. Te Pa Tu Maori Cultural Experience
3. Hell’s Gate Mud Bath
4. Rotorua Canopy ZipLine
5. White water rafting over a waterfall
8 Best things to do in Rotorua
Rotorua is known for three things: the smell of sulfur (and accompanying geothermal landscapes), Maori culture, and as the Adventure Capital of the North Island.
Located in a geothermal area Rotorua offers some otherworldly landscapes with steamy and bubbling features.
Then there are forests, lakes, rivers and mountains which offer a seemingly endless playground for all thrill seekers and outdoor lovers. The Maori recognized the beauty of this area long ago and settled here long ago. To date over a third of the population in Rotorua is Maori and their culture, history and art can be seen and sensed everywhere.
With an introduction like this, one thing should be clear by now – you’ll never run out of fun things to do in Rotorua!
1. Marvel at the Geothermal Wonders in Rotorua
In Rotorua the heat and sulphur gasses come through the earth’s crust which heats up the ground, lakes, and streams and causes the smell of sulphur (smells a bit like rotten eggs). Luckily the big upside to this phenomenon is that these geothermal areas look awesome, and result in some great spas and relaxing natural hot springs.
When in Rotorua you absolutely must explore at least some of these geothermal landscapes and phenomena! I highly recommend this Geothermal Toru from Rotorua which includes the three main geothermal sites; Wai-O-Tapu, Te Puia and Waimangu.
1. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
This big park is considered to be New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse geothermal sightseeing attraction. Witness the Lady Knox Geyser erupt to heights of 20 meters and take insta-worthy shots at the Champagne Pool.
The Geyser erupts every day at 10:15 am and if you don’t mind missing out on it, this is the best time to have the rest of the park all to yourself. Don’t worry about it too much though, the park is big and never gets very crowded.
Book your Wai-O-Tapu & Waimagu tour
2. Te Puia Valley
Te Puia Valley is located just outside of town and spans over 70 hectares within the historic Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. Here you’ll find the world-famous Pohutu geyser, mud pools, hot springs, silica formations, and more.
Book your Te Puia Geothermal Valley Experience
3. Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Waimangu Volcanic Valley claims to be the world’s youngest geothermal system. It offers a network of naive bush walks, a lake cruise on Lake Rotomahana or you can explore with the Steaming Cliffs Kayak tour. You’ve probably seen photos of the Frying Pan Lake, the world’s largest hot spring of an incredibly blue color.
Book your Waimangu exploration:
Book your Wai-O-Tapu & Waimagu tour
Waimangu Valley Walk and Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour
Volcanic Valley Self Guided Tour
4. Kuirau Park
On a tight budget or don’t feel like spending money? Then go to Kuirau Park in Rotorua town. Entrance to the park is completely free and you’ll see plenty of bubbly mud pools and steamy lakes here.
5. Hells Gate Reserve
From bubbling pools and steaming cliffs, to Kakahi Falls, the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere. Hell’s Gate really is a wonder of nature. Here you can witness a mud volcano eruption and unique native bushland.
Book your geothermal experience:
Hell’s Gate Walk + Spa
Hell’s Gate Geothermal Walk
Hell’s Gate Mud Bath & Spas
2. Experience Maori Culture and history
Rotorua is the heartland of Maori culture in New Zealand and offers an unparalleled journey into the rich traditions and history of the Maori people.
As the first settlers of Rotorua, the Maori have left an indelible mark on the region, making it the best place to experience authentic cultural interactions. The area is home to several Maori villages where you can participate in traditional ceremonies, witness cultural performances, and enjoy the heartfelt warmth of Maori hospitality.
1. Join a Maori cultural experience evening
As already mentioned, there are multiple Māori villages that you can visit here and they all offer an interesting cultural experience.
We went to Te Pa Tu, formerly known as Tamaki Maori Village and can’t stop raving about it. They often sell out so make sure to book your Maori night in advance.
After an invigorating welcome (if you’re lucky you might be chosen as your tribe’s chief), you’ll be shown around the village. During the evening you’ll learn about Maori tattoos, partake in traditions like the world-famous haka and play Maori games.
After the tour through the village, they will put on an incredible show with dances and haka, and end the evening with with arguably the best part; a delicious hangi dinner.
Book your cultural evening at Te Pa Tu
2. Maori Arts and Crafts Institute at Te Puia
Set within the geothermal wonderland of Te Whakarewarewa the Māori Arts and Crafts Institute plays a vital role in preserving the timeless Maori arts.
Here you can witness the intricate craftsmanship of traditional Maori carving and weaving, skills that have been passed down through generations. The institute is dedicated to fostering these arts by providing training for future generations to ensure that these important aspects of Māori culture endure.
3. Visit a Jade carving studio
Jade has a special place in Maori culture and jade carving is a traditional craft. Different shapes have different meanings and it is said a jade-stone should always be gifted, never bought.
In Rotorua you can visit the Mountain Jade Carving Studio where you’ll learn everything about this ancient craft.
Book your Mountain Jade Carving Studio visit
4. Whakarewarewa – The Living Maori Village
Whakarewarewa, affectionately known as “Whaka” by locals, offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant day-to-day life of a Māori village amidst geothermal landscapes. This living village has been home to the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people for over 200 years.
Join this guided tour to explore the village led by local residents. You’ll learn about the history and culture, see traditional cooking methods using the geothermal steam, and enjoy cultural performances.
Book your Whakarewarewa Village Guided Tour
5. Ohinemutu Maori Village
Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Ohinemutu is a living Māori village through which you can respectfully stroll for free.
As the original settlement of the Ngāti Whakaue tribe, the village features the impressive St. Faith’s Church, which blends Māori and European design elements, and intricately carved meeting houses that are central to the community.
3. Feel the Adrenalin Rush
There is no shortage of adventures in Rotorua, the Adventure Capital of the North Island. Officially Queenstown still claims the crown as Adventure Capital of New Zealand, but it’s a tight win as you’ll see from the vast list of thrilling, adrenaline-pumping activities listed below.
Rotorua is the birthplace of Zorbing, offers the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall and boasts boasts over 350 kilometers of biking trails.
1. Become a human bubble in a Zorb
Experience the thrill of rolling down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball at the Zorb park in Rotorua. There’s no better place to try this unique activity than where it all began!
You can choose from several different runs and can either roll on your own or with friends!
2. Zip through the forest
Just a few minutes out of town, Rotorua canopy tours runs zipline adventures through (arguably) the most beautiful forest in Rotorua. They offer two different tours for you to choose from – The Original Canopy Tour runs for 600m over six ziplines while the Ultimate Canopy Tour is double that!
Book your Canopy Zipline adventure
3. Go rafting over a 7m waterfall
How does rafting off a 7-meter high waterfall sound to you? Awesome? Scary? Both? Rotorua is home to the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall and if going down it wasn’t on your bucket list yet, you should add it now.
After instructions and a safety briefing, you’ll experience a 50-minute ride down 14 rapids and ultimately the big waterfall. There is no guarantee that your raft won’t flip over while going down the waterfall, but that just adds to the excitement! Don’t worry, it is perfectly safe. We flipped and had even more fun for it.
Book your white water rafting adventure
4. Get your adrenaline fix Mountain Biking
All this wild and unspoiled nature make Rotorua great for another thing; mountain biking! With over 350 km of mountain bike trails, Rotorua really is a world class destination for MTB & downhill holidays.
The Redwood Forest track has been voted best mountain biking track on the Southern Hemisphere by RedBull, and those guys know what they’re talking about when it comes to extreme sports.
And if you’re not big on the uphill part, take advantage of the gondola at Skyline MTB gravity park.
6. Go sledding down white water rapids
Not quite as adrenaline-pumping as white water rafting or canyoning, white-water sledging puts more emphasis on the environment and panoramic views. This is a family-friendly tour with just enough action to get your heart pumping.
Book your White-Water Sledging adventure
7. Take your pick at Velocity Valley
Still haven’t got your adrenalin pumping? Then visit Velocity Valley. This adventure park has everything to still your hunger for action;from plummeting from dizzying heights on the Swoop, to racing on the innovative Shweeb Racer, or experiencing the high-speed freedom of the Agrojet and Freefall Xtreme, all set against the stunning backdrop of New Zealand’s natural beauty.
Book your Velocity Valley tickets
4. Enjoy the Hot Geothermal Waters
A big perk of the geothermal activity is the natural hot springs it creates. What better way to pamper yourself than by soaking up in a warm bath or mud bath? If you’re looking to relax, I suggest you book (at least) one of the following options.
1. Indulge at the Polynesian Spa
The iconic Polynesian is situated just off the shores of Lake Rotorua and has everything you need to indulge in a day of rest and relaxation. Here you can enjoy 5 mineral hot pools overlooking Lake Rotorua, a cold plunge, geothermally heated poolside recliners and massive relaxation areas.
Book your Polynesian Spa tickets
2. Mud at Hell’s Gate
Don’t let the name put you off, more than hell, this spa is heaven! It takes mud baths to a whole new level. This therapeutic mud bath and sulfur spa package will leave your body rejuvenated, your skin smooth and nourish and your mind relaxed and calm.
Book your geothermal experience:
Hell’s Gate Walk + Spa
Hell’s Gate Geothermal Walk
Hell’s Gate Mud Bath & Spas
3. Relax at Secret Spot Hot Tubs
Tucked away in the native bush, these hand-crafted cedar hot tubs are as relaxing as it gets. Reserve yours here and just soak as the stress and aches fade away.
Reserve your hot tub at the Secret Spot
4. Discover Kerosine Creek
Drive to Kerosine Creek and walk a few minutes from the carpark into the bush to find a naturally heated stream that cascades into little hot pools. Best part? The creek is free to access!
Don’t forget to bring a towel and as always with natural hot springs, avoid getting your head underwater.
5. Soak at Waikite Valley Thermal Pools
Waikite Valley Thermal Poolsare thermal pools are located a bit out of town. They’re simple and affordable, yet very shooting. There is also a campsite where you can stay for an additional $5.
I highly recommend this guided thermal path tour which will take you several geothermal areas including Kerosene Creek and Waikite Valley Thermal Pools.
Book your guided Waikite Valley and thermal path tour
5. Enjoy Nature and Scenery
Rotorua is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a stunning array of landscapes that go beyond its renowned geothermal features. Nestled amidst verdant forests, rolling hills, and pristine lakes, the area provides countless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
The towering trees of the Whakarewarewa Forest, the tranquil waters of Lake Rotorua, and the breathtaking views from Mount Ngongotaha all showcase the region’s natural beauty.
1. Visit the National Kiwi Hatchery
Have you ever seen a kiwi bird? We got super lucky to spot two on Ulva island but the harsh reality is that they’re so rare that most people never see one in the wild. That’s why institutions like the National Kiwi Hatchery are so important in the conservation of this species.
The National Kiwi Hatchery Tour is a special opportunity to gain insight in kiwi hatching process and see kiwi birds in the purpose-built nocturnal enclosure.
Book your National Kiwi Hatchery tickets
2. Feel small in the redwood forest
On the outskirts of Rotorua, you’ll find the Whakarewarewa Forest. Within this forest, 6 hectares of Californian Redwood trees were planted over 100 years ago. Now, these trees have grown to heights of 75 meters!
Redwoods Treewalk created a walkway up in the trees consisting of platforms connected by 28 swing bridges to show you the forest from a whole new perspective. In the evening the whole walk is illuminated and lanterns light up the forest to make it look truly magical.
You don’t have to do the tree walk to explore the forest, but I highly recommend you do as it’s gonna give you a completely different perspective.
Book your walk among treetops:
Book your Treewalk day admission ticket
Book your Treewalk and Redwoods Nightlights pass
3. See some glowworms
The next lake over from Lake Rotorua is called Rotoiti. The two are connected with a stream and here you’ll find beautiful bays, beaches, thermal springs and even glowworms!
This kayaking tour is the perfect way to explore and the knowledgable guide will take you to the nices springs and several glow worm caves that are only accessible by water.
If kayaking isn’t your thing you can explore some caves by foot so join this Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour.
Book your adventure:
Kayak tour of Glowworm Caves
Nocturnal Glow-worm Nature Walk
4. Stroll down Lake Rotorua
Lake Rotorua is beautiful and offers a mix of pedicured lakeside reserves, native bushes and geothermal areas. There is even a free hot water beach for you to explore! You can take the Sulphur track all the way to Govenors gardens.
5. Explore the scenery on a horseback
Horseback riding is a wonderful way to explore the countryside. This 1h tour will take you into the foothills of Mt. Ngongotaha over working farmland and through native bush.
Book your Horse Trek in Rotorua
6. Walk into the crater of a volcano at Mt Tarawera
On the outskirts of Rotorua stands Mt. Tarawera, a 1.111 m tall volcano, where you can enter the crater! Since it belongs to a Maori tribe (and for safety reasons) it is closed to the public and you can only explore it with a guided tour.
Depending on your fitness level, budget and time available, you can choose to do a guided hike the top of the volcano or do a helicopter landing at the top.
Book your Volcano adventure:
Mt Tarawera Volcano guided hike
Mt Tarawera Volcano helicopter landing
7. Explore the many lakes in the area
Rotorua is surrounded by a multitude of beautiful lakes offering picturesque settings from native bush to hot water springs and peaceful picnic spots, as well as watersport opportunities.
You’ll need a rental car to get to these lakes or better yet, book this Lakes Tour by Boat (which turns into a bus on land). You can also join this Morning Lakes Tour by minivan.
- Lake Rotorua: The largest of the region’s lakes, it is known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Rotorua Lakefront Boardwalk or relax at Sulphur Point, where geothermal features meet serene waters.
- Lake Rotoiti: Connected to Lake Rotorua, this lake is famous for its beautiful bays and natural hot springs. Explore the lake by kayak or SUP, and don’t miss the chance to see glowworms in hidden caves accessible only by water. Book this kayaking tour
- Lake Tarawera: Renowned for its stunning views of Mount Tarawera, this lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and experiencing the rich history of the 1886 volcanic eruption.
- Lake Okataina: Surrounded by untouched native bush, Lake Okataina is perfect for those seeking tranquility. Its isolated location makes it ideal for hiking and bird watching.
- Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Rotokakahi (Green Lake): These two neighboring lakes are unique in their contrasting colors and provide picturesque spots for picnicking, swimming, and water sports.
- Lake Okareka: A local favorite for water skiing and kayaking, Lake Okareka also features a beautiful lakeside walk that is perfect for family outings.
Book your tour:
Tarawera and Rotorua Lakes Eco Tour by Boat
Morning Lakes Tour
8. Hike the many walking paths
Rotorua is a walker’s paradise, offering a wide range of trails that meander through its stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, Rotorua has something for every outdoor enthusiast.
- Okere Falls Track: This scenic walk along the Kaituna River offers stunning views of cascading waterfalls and the opportunity to witness daring kayakers and rafters in action.
- Mount Ngongotaha Scenic Reserve: Ascend to the top of Mount Ngongotaha for breathtaking panoramic views of Rotorua and its lakes. This moderate hike is rewarding and provides a great vantage point of the area.
- Blue Lake (Tikitapu) Track: Circumnavigate the vibrant Blue Lake on an easy walking trail that showcases the beauty of the lake and its surrounding native bush. It’s perfect for families and those seeking a picturesque stroll.
- Lake Okareka Walkway: This scenic walkway skirts the edge of Lake Okareka, offering serene lake views, abundant wildlife, and lush wetlands. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching and leisurely walks.
- Tarawera Trail: For a more challenging adventure, embark on the Tarawera Trail, which winds along the lake’s edge and through native bush to reach the stunning Hot Water Beach. This invigorating hike is perfect for those seeking a day out immersed in nature.
9. Government Gardens
The iconic Government Gardens, a picturesque public park along Lake Rotorua’s edge, just minutes from the city center. Gifted by the local Māori iwi in the late 1800s, this 50-acre space offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s history and culture.
Stroll through manicured grounds where you can admire ancient geothermal pools and sculptures, or partake in recreational activities like bowls and croquet. For a unique experience, visit the exquisitely restored Blue Baths, known for its mixed-gender pools reminiscent of Hollywood glamour.
Don’t miss the Tudor-style Bath House, opened in 1908 as one of New Zealand’s earliest health spas, now housing the Rotorua Museum, though currently under renovation.
The gardens also feature the Klamath Falls Rose Gardens, in full bloom from mid-November to June, the historical Te Runanga Tea House, and the Band Rotunda.
6. Go on a day trip from Rotorua
Rotorua is a fantastic place to base yourself and do day trips from. With its central location, you can easily reach a number of iconic destinations for unforgettable day trips.
Here are a few of the unmissable day trips from Rotorua. Some are available via an organized tour but for others you’ll have to rent a car.
1. Hobbiton Movie Set
Step into the magical world of Middle-earth with a visit to Hobbiton, located in the lush hills of Matamata. Explore the picturesque set from the “Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” films, complete with hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn. A guided tour offers fascinating insights into film-making and allows you to immerse yourself in the enchanting Shire.
Book your Hobbiton tour:
Rent a Car
Book your Hobbiton tickets
Book your Hobbiton from Rotorua group tour
Join this Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves tour
2. Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Venture underground to experience the mesmerizing beauty of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Glide through the caves on a boat or raft and gaze at the thousands of glowworms illuminating the darkness like a starry night. This black water rafting tour is a truly magical experience!
Get ready for your Waitomo day trip:
3. Taupo and Maori Carvings
Take a trip to Taupo, a stunning lakeside town known for its outdoor activities and stunning landscapes. At the center of it all is Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand, which was formed by a massive volcanic eruption over 26,000 years ago. This supervolcano’s dramatic past has shaped the region, creating a stunning landscape that’s ripe for exploration.
Explore the Huka Falls, soak in the hot pools and don’t miss seeing the impressive Maori carvings at Mine Bay, which can be viewed from a boat or kayak tour.
Taupo also serves as a gateway to the Tongariro National Park, where you can take on the renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a day hike that traverses a diverse volcanic landscape.
You can rent a car and drive to Taupo on your own or join this day trip that includes a visit to Waiotapu or Orakei Korako.
Get ready for your Taupo day trip:
Rent a car
Hukafalls Jet Boat Ride from Taupo
Maori Rock Carvings Sailing From Taupo
4. Blue Springs, Putaruru
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Springs, a place I keep going back to. Here you’ll find some of the bluest waters and most interesting underwater plants.
The vibrant blue color and purity of the water are like nothing I’ve ever seen before. The crystal-clear water emerges from the ground at a constant 11°C and you can see the little bubbles coming up.
Take a walk along the Te Waihou walkway and enjoy the serene beauty of this natural treasure. But swimming is not allowed.
5. Tauranga and Mount Maunganui
Head to the coastal city of Tauranga and explore the vibrant beach town of Mount Maunganui. Climb to the summit of Mauao for panoramic views of the coastline or relax on the golden sandy beaches. Tauranga also offers fantastic dining and shopping options, making it a great day out near the ocean.
7. Have some fun
1. Ride the Duck Boat
Hop aboard an amphibious duck boat for a fun tour that takes you on land and water, and enjoy an entertaining commentary with plenty of laughs along the way.
This entertaining adventure takes you past landmarks like Lake Rotorua, Mokoia Island, and Government Gardens, culminating in an exciting splashdown as you drive into Lake Tikitapu and Lake Okareka.
Book your Rotorua Duck Boat Guided City and Lakes Tour
2. Visit the 3D Trick Art Gallery
Enter a world of optical illusions at the 3D Trick Art Gallery. Pose creatively with interactive art pieces that make for fun and unique photographs. It’s a perfect activity for families and anyone with a sense of humor.
3. Race down in a Luge
Experience the fun and rush of racing down a luge track at Skyline Rotorua. With multiple tracks of varying difficulty, you can speed down the hill while enjoying stunning views of Rotorua from above. It’s fun for all ages and a great way to spend the afternoon.
4. See the sheep show at Agrodome
There is no shortage of jokes on sheep and New Zealand. And yes, there really is plenty of sheep in this country! At Agrodome you’ll learn more about farming in New Zealand, you’ll get to pet some farm animals and end the night with the famous sheep sheering show.
Book your Agrodome Farm Experience
8. Make your inner foodie sing
1. Try hangi
A hangi is a traditional Māori cooking method that uses heated rocks buried in a pit oven, called an umu. It is usually a mix of meats and vegetables with the mandatory kumara (sweet potato) and it all gets slow-cooked underground creating unbeatable flavors.
Since this cooking process takes 3-4 hours, not many restaurants offer a hangi dinner but you can taste it at Te Pa Tu as part of the cultural show.
Book your cultural evening at Te Pa Tu
2. Indulge in the flavors on Eat Street
With a name like this, Eat street is certain to pack some of the best restaurants in Rotorua. In my opinion this is one of the best places to eat in Rotorua and there is no shortage of bars, pubs and live music either.
Location: Eat Street
3. Check out the Rotorua Night Market
One of the best things to do in Rotorua at night, well evening, is to indulge in the goodies at Rotorua Night Market. This is a street food event that fills up Tutanekai Street every Thursday from 5pm to 8:30pm.
Location: Tutanekai Street
Opening times: Thursday 5pm – 8:30pm
4. Shop local at Rotorua Farmers’ Market
Every Sunday morning you can shop fresh produce and crafts from local artists at the Rotorua Farmers’ Market. Make sure to get there early to get your hands on the best produce.
Location: Corner of Hinemoa & Tutanekai Street
Opening times: Sunday 9am – 1pm
5. Enjoy dinner with a view at Rotorua Skyline
If you’re looking to turn dinner into an experience then check out Stratosfare Restaurant at the top of the Skyline gondola. The food is delicious and it boosts 360 views overlooking lake Rotorua and the surroundings.
Location: Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar
Opening times: Thu & Fri 5–8:30pm, Sat & Sun 11:30am–2:30pm
6. Go wine tasting at the Volcanic Hills Winery
Also located at the top of the Skyline is the Volcanic Hills Winery Tasting Room. Made from grapes from the best wine-growing regions around New Zealand Volcanic Hills Winery offers a selection of kiwi favorites, all paired with swooping views.
Location: Skyline Rotorua
Opening times: Thu–Mon, 12–5pm
Where to stay in Rotorua
With so much to do in Rotorua, you can easily spend several days here, so let’s find you a place to stay! Rotorua is a fairly small city and most things in town are within walking distance from each other. Still I’d recommend you keep closer to the lakefront and Kuirau park for the best experience.
Read next: Best accommodation in Rotorua
A major consideration when choosing accommodation in Rotorua could be access to a spa or a geothermally heated pool. You’re in a volcanic wonderland after all, make the most of it!
Feel like royalty at Prince’s Gate Hotel located right next to the Governors gardens. If you’re after more private accommodation, Aura Accommodation offers studios and apartments with a common pool area with a hot tub. And for those on a budget check out Rotorua Central Backpackers the location is great and it has a hot tub for you to soak in after a long day.
FEEL LIKE ROYALTY
4.5 star hotel with superb location, regal interior design, fabulous food and outstanding spa facilities.
CENTRAL LOCATION & PRIVACY
Private apartments in the heart of the city with fantastic common facilities and heated pools.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY
Choose between private rooms and dormitories. This hostel has great common facilities and a free hot tub.
Best time to visit Rotorua
Rotorua is a great destination year-round. In summer you will get warmer weather perfect for outdoor activities and longer days that allow you to see more things in a day. And in winter the geothermal activity makes this the area even more special.
But I really love Rotorua in winter! Thick steam rises up from the geothermal areas creating a mity layer over town and there is central heating everywhere (and you don’t find this often in New Zealand!).
Read next: Rotorua in winter
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Is Rotorua worth visiting?
Rotorua is a must-visit destination in New Zealand because of its beautiful scenery, rich cultural heritage and wide tourist offerings.
Known for its geothermal activity, Rotorua offers unique sights like geysers, bubbling mud pools, and hot springs. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as mountain biking, white-water rafting, and zip-lining.
Rotorua is a key cultural hub in New Zealand, where you can experience Maori performances and enjoy traditional meals. Additionally, there are also lovely walking trails and lake activities like fishing and kayaking. And Rotorua’s spa facilities are perfect for relaxing.
Planning a trip to Rotorua?
From relaxing hot pools to the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world to colorful thermal parks and Maori culture to walking high up in the trees and rolling down hills in an inflatable ball.
Rotorua really packs in a punch and certainly deserves a place on your New Zealand bucket list!
Find out more about Rotorua in the articles below.
Read next:
Rotorua accommodation: Where to stay in Rotorua
Rotorua itinerary: How to spend 1, 2, 3 & 5 days in Rotorua
Rotorua in winter: Incredible things to do in winter in Rotorua, New Zealand
North Island: New Zealand North Island Road Trip – 2 & 3 week itinerary