Rotorua, which sits squarely on the Volcanic Plateau and the Pacific Rim of Fire, is built over one of the world’s geothermal hotspots. Large numbers of visitors come to Rotorua every year for its numerous geothermal attractions, as well as its Maori cultural heritage and wide choice of adventure sports.The city sits on the shore of Rotorua Lake in the Bay of Plenty area on New Zealand’s North Island. The area is well known for trout fishing and boating opportunities. Rent fishing equipment or enquire about local tour operators in town.Many of the famous hot springs, colorful crater lakes and bubbling pools are located in parks and reserves such as Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Soak in a geothermal mud bath, marvel at geysers erupting almost 100 feet (30 meters) into the air, and take a scenic flight to nearby White Island, the country’s only active marine volcano.Make time for a visit to The Buried Village. It was covered with ash when adjacent Mount Tarawera erupted in 1886. Today, the site has a museum, nature trail and teahouse. Nearby Rainbow Springs Nature Park has beautifully sculptured ponds filed with fish. See Kiwi birds and other creatures native to New Zealand.Discover the culture of the Te Arawa people, who settled in the area more than 600 years ago. At Tamaki Maori Village, see how villagers used the hot springs to bathe and do laundry. Try a hangi feast, which is cooked by steaming the food in the ground, and watch performances of Maori songs and war dance.Adventure seekers will find plenty of things to do in Rotorua. Try skydiving, mountain biking, whitewater rafting or zorbing. Activites are organised by various operators around the city. In winter, head for the North Island’s ski slopes, easily accessed via Rotorua’s international airport.
Rotorua
Rotorua Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Rotorua
Lake Okareka
Travelers like the parks in Lake Okareka, and Lake Tikitapu is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Whakarewarewa
The panoramic lake views and luxurious spas are just a few highlights of Whakarewarewa. Make a stop by Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village or Te Puia New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute while you're exploring the area.
Owhata
While Owhata isn't home to many top sights, Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest and Polynesian Spa are some notable places to visit nearby.
Springfield
Though Springfield might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Rotorua International Stadium and Te Puia New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Ngongotaha
Ngongotaha is noteworthy for its lake views, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Agrodome and Agroventures.
Victoria
Victoria might not have many top sights, but Rotorua Central Mall and Rotorua Night Market are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
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Getting around Rotorua
To get the most out of your time in Rotorua you’ll want to be able to explore the countryside at will, which means renting a car is the best option; numerous international rental companies operate in town. For public transportation, the green CityRide bus services can be a convenient way of getting around, while taxis are easy to come by, too. Walking is the best way to experience Rotorua’s beautiful lakes and forests. Visit the Ministry of Transport website.Browse Rotorua rental cars.
Best time to visit
Given that Rotorua is all about exploring the great outdoors, the weather will be an important factor in the timing of your trip. The summer months of January to March have beautiful weather, with temperatures from around 69 to 84 F (21 to 29 C). This is also the busiest time. For smaller crowds, consider visiting in spring. Autumn is the wettest season, while winter is chilly, but not extremely so.
Popular places to visit
Skyline Rotorua
Take in the splendid scenery during a gondola ride and jump in a luge cart to navigate your way down the exciting mountain track.
Polynesian Spa
Set among the serene Government Gardens on the shores of Lake Rotorua, these hot pools are an idyllic place to relax and unwind.
Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
Walk, cycle or ride a horse through this picturesque forest filled with a magnificent array of trees from around the world.
Mitai Maori Village
For a great insight into Māori customs and way of life, sign up for this magical, entertaining and educational cultural experience.
Eat Street
During your visit to Rotorua, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Eat Street. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this culturally rich area.
Tamaki Maori Village
You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Tamaki Maori Village in Rotorua. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.
Things to do
Auckland to Rotorua Private Tour
Rotorua: Guided Zipline Adventure Tour with Photos
Rotorua: The National Kiwi Hatchery Tour
Other places like Rotorua
- Skyline Rotorua
- Polynesian Spa
- Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
- Mitai Maori Village
- Eat Street
- Tamaki Maori Village
- Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village
- Te Puia New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute
- Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park
- Rotorua Night Market
- Kuirau Park
- Hell's Gate and Wai Ora Spa
- Government Gardens
- Lake Rotoiti Hot Pools
- Rotorua i-SITE Visitor Centre
- Agrodome
- Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve
- Whakarewarewa Hot Springs
- Matariki Hangi & Maori Cultural Performance
- Tama-te-Kapua Meeting House
- Sulphur Point
- Ogo
- St. Faith's Anglican Church