Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, rich culture and natural beauty is reflected in the town’s unique, high quality shopping experiences.
The majority of shopping on offer in Rotorua can be found in and around the main town centre. Quiet streets and wide footpaths make this a relaxed and enjoyable place to shop. When your feet need a break, head down to the lake edge with a picnic or stop at one of the many cafes and restaurants on Eat Streat.
Much of the work in Rotorua’s art galleries and boutiques is inspired by the area’s rich local Maori culture and history. Rotorua is also known for its locally sourced beauty products – the geothermal elements of the region work wonders in face masks and skincare. You’ll find these products in any local gift shop.
Adrienne Whitewood’s Ahu Boutique is a must-see. A local talent, her designs are strongly influenced by Maori culture. Taking traditional concepts and using these to influence unique silhouettes, Ahu Boutique stocks a range of unique, New Zealand-inspired garments for women.
Working as a carver with both wood and stone, Maori sculptor and carver Joe Kemp looks to bring out the Wairua (essence) in each piece, starting from how the material originated and using any hidden features to add to the final creation. His open air gallery is located at his own private residence beside Lake Rotoma.
For art galleries showcasing high-quality New Zealand work, Elim Art Gallery promotes Kiwi creativity and quality workmanship in their inspiring gallery space in central Rotorua. Helium is one of the newest and most modern galleries in town and is located in a bright, airy renovated space and showcases New Zealand made gift ware and contemporary New Zealand art.
A piece of New Zealand pounamu (jade) carved by a master carver makes the ultimate gift from New Zealand. Mountain Jade works with New Zealand pounamu carvers to bring traditional and contemporary pounamu art to life. Both Te Puia and the Rotorua Museum also offer both pounamu carvings and other high quality Maori arts and crafts.
New Zealand wool is famous the world over, and there are great wool products and gift ideas on offer at Agrodome's gift shop.
If you’re keen to get into our Great Outdoors on your holiday – be it mountain biking, hiking, fishing or camping – and you need to pick up quality outdoor supplies before you head off, visit multi-levelled The Outdoorsman. Cyclezone has been around long before Rotorua became famous for its trails and cycling; they’re one of Rotorua’s oldest bike shops and service centres, and their team is full of knowledge if you’re planning a mountain biking adventure.
New Zealand’s first Jelly Bean Concept Store and Art Gallery is perched above the city at Skyline Rotorua. The Jelly Bean Store has over 100 flavours of jelly beans to choose from; with gift packs and Pick ‘n Mix also on offer.
