Located in northern New Zealand, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland that’s teeming with many relaxing destinations. The city has a bit of something for everyone whether you’re looking for a romantic trip and some relaxing spa treatments, an outdoor adventure with friends, or just a relaxing weekend taking in some Maori culture. Tick off many items on your Rotorua must-see list when you explore its hot springs, cultural sites, and adventure parks. Check out this helpful travel guide and discover what the city has in store for you!
Situated in the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, Te Puia is home to the striking Pohutu Geyser. Identified as the largest in New Zealand, Pohutu Geyser spurts hot water and steam up to twenty times per day, each burst can reach heights of up to 30 meters. Aside from the geyser, you can also visit the impressive New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Once there, you can explore the bubbling mud pools with a local Maori guide and choose from among a myriad of activities.
Hailed as one of the best spas in the world, Polynesian Spa in Rotorua has many hot, mineral-rich springs where you can take a relaxing dip. Located on the shore of Rotorua Lake, the spa has the best views over the lake. Wrap up the experience when you watch the beautiful sunset while relaxing in one of the outdoor pools of the spa.
Nestled on the northeast side of the city, Lake Rotorua is one of the most visited destinations in the area. Take a day off and go camping to enjoy the perfect getaway in Lake Rotorua. Take a swim in the chilly waters of the lake or go fishing for the famous big rainbow trout. Stay the night and wake up early to catch an amazing sunrise over the lake!
There are a lot of ways to experience the geological wonders of Rotorua, but what can be more fulfilling than hiking? Visit Mount Tarawera and take in the beautiful sceneries on top. At the top, you’ll have enough time to relax and meet new friends as you wait for sunset. Marvel at the surrounding lunar-like landscape once the light breaks over the horizon. Make sure to snap Instagram-worthy photos of the jagged landscape.
Nestled on land given by Maoris to the British Crown in the late 1800s, the Government Garden is one of the oldest gardens on North Island. The 50-acre garden is teeming with interesting plants and historical landmarks such as the half-timbered Elizabethan revival buildings. A horticulturist paradise, the garden has over a hundred plant species. A walk through the garden takes you to spot bubbling geothermal pools, traditional and modern Māori-inspired art pieces, sculptures, and perfectly manicured grounds for croquet and golf.
Opened to the public in 1932, Rainbow Springs Nature Park is New Zealand’s one of the oldest wildlife and cultural park. Located along Fairy Springs Road, the compact nature park is teeming with native animal species including birds, reptiles, and aquatic life. The park is divided into different sections where you can also try various activities such as eel feeding and tuatara encounter.
A beautiful disaster, Waimangu Volcanic Valley was created when Mount Tarawera erupted in 1886. The area has been increasingly accessible and attracted thousands of tourists each year. Popular destinations in the valley include Frying Pan Lake and the steaming and usually pale blue Inferno Crater Lake. Don’t miss out on capturing Instagram-worthy photos during your visit.
Towering beside Rotorua is Mount Ngongotaha. Named after a famous Maori explorer, the mountain is home to Skyline Rotorua. Established in 1981, the attraction has seven major activities. Kick-off your adventure with a scenic cable car ride. Witness the breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain and Rotorua from the top. Then, try other activities such as ziplines, sky swing, and luge.
Located 14kms southeast of Rotorua, the buried village of Te Wairoa is one of the most casualties of the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption. Open to the public, the site shows the excavated ruins of the village while recovered relics are on display in a museum and the history of the eruption. Aside from the abandoned village, a nearby Wairere Waterfall is also a favorite destination in the area.
While most parks are known for their lush fields, flowers, and plants, Kuirau Park in Rotorua is popular for its jagged landscape and mud pools. Kuirau Park is full of various steaming lakes and bubbling pits of mud. Path walks lead to numerous areas of active geothermal spots within the park. Don’t miss out on snapping Instagram-worthy photos as you explore the park.
Rotorua is known for its active geothermal spots, cultural destinations, and must-visit places like Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the buried village of Te Wairoa, and the Skyline Rotorua. Some of the exciting events in Rotorua are the Blue Lake Rowing Regatta, Tarawera Ultramarathon, and the National Alpaca Farm Days.
The weather is relatively warm and sunny from December to February in Rotorua. Summer is the warmest time in Rotorua with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 29°C. With long days and sunlight hours, summer is the best time to explore the outdoors
Rotorua’s city center is a charming and compact district that offers a lot of hotels for seasoned and first-time travelers. From your hotel, the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and attractions are just a few minutes or an hour drive away.