Visit the “gates of hell”, kayak over the buried “eighth wonder of the world”, or stop by a living Māori village nestled among hot springs. Rotorua offers more than its share of bucket-list activities.
Rotorua is home to some of the most spectacular geothermal landscapes in the world. But it is also a hub for Māori culture and a gateway to countless outdoor and adrenaline attractions.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is renowned for its vibrant colours and unique formations, including the Champagne Pool and Lady Knox Geyser. Te Puia offers a blend of geothermal sights and Māori culture, featuring the impressive Pohutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools, and the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. Hell’s Gate is famous for its mud baths and the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere. Waimangu Volcanic Valley provides a serene experience with its beautiful lakes, hot springs, and the world’s youngest geothermal system.
Visitors can immerse themselves in Māori culture at Te Puia, where you can witness the famous Pohutu Geyser and explore the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. Or head to Te Pā Tū for an immersive cultural experience celebrating Māori history, traditions, and cuisine. Guests can enjoy traditional performances, storytelling, and a feast featuring local, seasonal fare.
Whakarewarewa, the Living Māori Village, offers an authentic cultural experience where visitors can explore the unique geothermal landscape and learn about the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people’s way of life.
For adventure seekers, Rotorua offers a range of thrilling activities. Explore the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, raft down the seven-meter high Tutea Falls on the Kaituna River, or zipline through the ancient forest with Rotorua Canopy Tours. Mountain biking enthusiasts will love the world-famous trails in the Whakarewarewa Forest.
The Polynesian Spa is a must-visit, featuring deluxe geothermal hot spring bathing with stunning views of Lake Rotorua. For a unique experience, head to Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park & Mud Spa, where you can soak in therapeutic mud baths and sulphur spas. Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa offers a luxury cultural wellness experience on the shores of Lake Rotorua, while Waikite Valley Hot pools boasts pure natural geothermal waters surrounded by native bush.
Rotorua is a year-round destination, but the region’s geothermal landscapes make it the perfect winter destination. This is a great time to immerse yourself in Māori culture and more than a few hot pools.
Rotorua is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. The city has its own airport with regular flights from major New Zealand cities. It is also a convenient drive from Auckland, taking approximately 3 hours. Bus services also connect Rotorua with other key destinations.
