Top Places to Visit in Rotorua, New Zealand

Visit Te Puia, a geothermal wonderland and a prominent Māori cultural center. Witness the powerful Pōhutu Geyser erupt, explore bubbling mud pools, and learn about Māori arts and crafts at the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.

Experience authentic Māori culture at Whakarewarewa, a living village where locals continue to live amidst active geothermal features. Witness traditional performances, explore their unique way of life, and enjoy a Hāngi meal cooked in geothermal steam.

Explore the magnificent Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest, home to towering Californian coastal redwoods. Enjoy walking trails, mountain biking, and for an elevated experience, try the Redwoods Treewalk through the canopy.

Stroll through the beautiful Government Gardens, a historic public park featuring manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and the iconic Rotorua Museum and Blue Baths. It's a peaceful oasis in the city.

Discover the vibrant geothermal landscape of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Witness the colorful Champagne Pool, Artist's Palette, and the daily eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser.

Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Rotorua, the second-largest lake in the North Island. Take a boat tour, go fishing, or simply enjoy the views from its shores.

Take the gondola up Mount Ngongotaha for panoramic views of Rotorua. Enjoy thrilling luge rides, mountain biking, a skyswing, and dining options with spectacular scenery.

Relax and rejuvenate at the Polynesian Spa, a world-renowned geothermal bathing experience. Soak in mineral-rich hot pools with lakeside views, known for their therapeutic properties.

Step back in time at the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, a Māori village entombed by the 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera. Explore excavated sites, a museum, and learn about the devastating event.

Explore the historic Rotorua Museum, housed in the iconic Bath House building. It showcases Rotorua's unique history, Māori culture, and geothermal activity. (Note: Currently closed for extensive repairs).

Experience a fun and interactive farm show at Agrodome, showcasing New Zealand's agricultural heritage. Watch sheep shearing, dog demonstrations, and learn about various farm animals.

Visit the picturesque Blue and Green Lakes (Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokakahi), named for their distinct colors caused by differing depths and mineral content. Enjoy viewpoints and short walks.

Walk the Okere Falls Track, a scenic bushwalk leading to several waterfalls and rapids on the Kaituna River. Watch white-water rafters and kayakers navigate the challenging drops.

Discover the pristine beauty of Hamurana Springs, featuring crystal-clear freshwater springs, towering redwood trees, and a peaceful walking track. It's a tranquil natural escape.

Experience the unique thrill of ZORB Rotorua, rolling down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball filled with water. Choose from various tracks for a fun and exhilarating ride.

Explore Kuirau Park, a public park featuring accessible geothermal activity like steaming vents, boiling mud pools, and a geothermal foot bath. It's a great free way to experience Rotorua's unique landscape.

Get up close with native New Zealand wildlife, including trout, eels, and native birds, at Paradise Valley Springs. Hand-feed trout and enjoy its natural spring-fed environment.

Discover Hells Gate, New Zealand's most active geothermal park. Witness powerful geysers, steaming fumaroles, and unique mud volcanoes. Indulge in a relaxing mud bath and sulfur spa.

Immerse yourself in an authentic Māori cultural experience at Tamaki Māori Village. Witness a traditional welcome (pōwhiri), enjoy a cultural performance, and feast on a delicious Hāngi dinner.

Experience an exhilarating ziplining adventure through ancient native forests with Rotorua Canopy Tours. Choose from various courses, offering thrilling ziplines and suspended bridges amidst stunning scenery.