Rotorua is a hot spot for more than volcanic landscapes and bubbling hot springs – it is also one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s best places to explore Māori culture, health spas, and outdoor recreation.
The city offers a raft of attractions and experiences for everyone from adventure-seekers to those just looking to unwind.
The scenic Tarawera Trail(opens in new window) treks through lush native bush with clear views of Lake Tarawera, the trail ends with a dip steaming hot pool - walk the trail in and take the water taxi back.
Sitting within the Pacific Rim of Fire, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pools, clouds of steam, and natural hot springs perfect for bathing and relaxing in. After marvelling at the distinctive landscapes and volcanic activity within a geothermal park, enjoy a simple soak in a natural hot stream or indulge in a wellness getaway at a luxurious spa.
View the video here(opens in new window) to explore activities in Rotorua.
Experience Māori culture, hospitality and food here - try a hāngī feast cooked in the steaming ground or take a tour of an authentic pre-European village.
The city is surrounded by mountains, rivers, native forests and 18 fresh water lakes, making it the perfect place to reconnect with nature. Rotorua is a mountain biking mecca with world-class mountain bike trails. Walking, horse riding, and swimming or fishing in the lakes and rivers are some of the best ways to see the wildlife, breath-taking scenery and discover the region’s hidden gems. It’s also a big trout fishing area with fishing on the lakes and tributary rivers.
For thrill seekers, Rotorua is home to the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, and offers everything from bungy jumping and luging to zorbing and ziplining.
Families with children of all ages will love the great range of leisure and wildlife parks. When it comes to food and drink, Rotorua boasts a thermally-heated central city alfresco dining zone known as Eat Streat, as well as a number of popular food and craft markets.
Only 5% of Kiwi hatched in the wild survive to adulthood. To help protect these birds, the National Kiwi Hatchery(opens in new window) hatches around 120 chicks a year, which are raised into young adulthood before being released into the wild. The centre welcomes visitors for a small admission fee that includes an excellent backstage tour to see the hatchery and egg incubator. All proceeds from ticket sales go to the National Kiwi Recovery Trust.
Located in the heart of the North Island, Rotorua is also the gateway to other central destinations - it's less than two hours to the Mt Ruapehu ski fields and less than an hour from the nearest beach towns.
