Things To Do In Rotorua

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1. Hot Springs at Te Puia

Hot Springs at Te Puia

3 km
from city center
1 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

TePuia is the hub of New Zealand’s Maori culture and thermal hot springs. It covers an area of 70 hectares in the Whakarewarewa Valley, located at the edge of town in Rotorua. It houses the world-renowned Pohutu geyser, followed by hot springs, mud pots, silica formations, and much more. There are national schools of wood carving, stone and bone carving, and weaving.

2. Polynesian Spa

Polynesian Spa

1 km
from city center
2 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Polynesian Spa, nature's gift to Rotorua, is an iconic geothermal mineral bathing luxury spa retreat, having exclusive access to acidic and alkaline natural mineral springs. This Spa has 28 mineral pools in the backyard wherein the water is channelled from the two natural springs - one acidic and the other alkaline. While nourishing the skin, this dual effect relieves tired muscles and aches and pains.

3. Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Waimangu Volcanic Valley

20 km
from city center
3 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Waimangu Volcanic Valley, one of the youngest geothermal hot springs in New Zealand, is now becoming one of the typical tourist attractions in the country. One can enjoy a range of self-guided tours among volcanic craters, hot springs and wildlife. This attraction represents the volcanic eruption of Mt. Tarawera and how it affected this area's people and landscape.

4. Wai-O-Tapu

Wai-O-Tapu

27 km
from city center
4 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

The geothermal wonderland, Wai-O-Tapu, is one of the fascinating sculptures created after years of volcanic activity. It is most likely the only place that perfectly showcases New Zealand’s geothermal topography. Filled with sulphur mud baths, geysers and brightly coloured pools, this place has one of the highest geothermal ratings in the world. So, for those deeply interested in seeing geothermal activity, this is just the right place for you.

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5. Skyline Rotorua

Skyline Rotorua

0 km
from city center
5 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

An ideal way to spend an entire day in Rotorua, the Skyline Rotorua is a cornucopia of adventure and gourmet experiences. The best part is that it is suitable for people of all ages. The views of this area of New Zealand from the Skyline Rotorua are simply majestic and stimulating.

6. Tamaki Maori Village

Tamaki Maori Village

1 km
from city center
6 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

An award-winning experience by the banks of Lake Rotorua, Tamaki Maori Village is a peek into New Zealand's tribal facets. The village is approximately 3 hours from Rotorua and offers you a chance to dive into the Maori history and be a part of their culture and traditions. The village was an initiative by 2 Kiwi cowboys - Doug and Mike Tamaki. In 1989, they came up with the idea of telling a story of the Maori culture and traditions. Today, Tamaki Maori village has become a gathering place for all the Maori families who wants to come and share their culture and spread their knowledge.

7. Redwoods Forest

Redwoods Forest

3 km
from city center
7 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

A range of diverse forests, the Whakarewarewa forest, also known as the Redwoods Forest in Rotorua, is one of the greatest natural treasures that offer a variety of recreational opportunities, panoramic views and exotic species. It is located only 5 minutes away from Downtown Rotorua and is an award-winning attraction. So if you’re waiting for an outing in one of nature’s best creations, this 55,000-hectare forest awaits you.

8. Lake Rotorua

Lake Rotorua

9 km
from city center
8 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Regarded to be the second largest lake in the North Island of New Zealand, the lake of Rotorua is one of the prime tourist attractions for people visiting the city of Rotorua in New Zealand. It stretches for about 79.8 square kilometres and has a depth of 10 meters. The city of Rotorua is located on the lake's southern shore, and the town of Ngongotaha is on the western coast of the same.

9. Kuirau Park

Kuirau Park

2 km
from city center
9 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Kuirau Park at the northern end of Rotorua, New Zealand, is a geothermal site with hot springs, mud pools, crater lakes and gardens. This park is a public space with walking tracks leading to the geothermal areas and providing the visitors with exciting and mesmerising sights of the boiling lakes and foot pools. Along with this, the park has other recreational activities like barbecues, playgrounds and paddling pools available and is a popular tourist attraction in the area.

10. Waikite Valley Thermal Pools

Waikite Valley Thermal Pools

25 km
from city center
10 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Waikite Valley Thermal Pools, established in 1972, are a complex of 10 different pools. 'Living water' of the Te Manarola spring can be experienced here. Te Manaroa spring is the largest single source of 100% pure boiling water in New Zealand. This water, naturally laden with calcite and sulphur free, comes directly from the depths of the earth.

11. Rotorua Museum of Art and History

Rotorua Museum of Art and History

1 km
from city center
11 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

The Rotorua Museum of Art and History is set in a spectacular former bath house. The building is a true architectural gem. If you wish to go on an informational spin about the region’s cultural and geological history, this museum is the place for you. It houses an essential collection of TeArawataonga. Whenever visiting the museum, plan a short halt at the TeAraway War memorial nearby.

12. Orakei Korako

Orakei Korako

38 km
from city center
12 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Mysteriously known as “The Hidden Valley”, Orakei Korako is a highly active geothermal region located in the famous Taupo Volcanic Zone of the northern island of New Zealand. With a name that translates to ‘The Place of Adorning’ in the native language Maori, Orakei Korako is undoubtedly one of the best attractions for tourists and travellers in the Rotorua area as well as in the entire country.

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13. Blue Baths Pool

Blue Baths Pool

0 km
from city center
13 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Natural geothermal features have always been something that Rotorua is proud of. There are geysers, hot springs and bubbling pools of mud and water abound, scattered all around the city - a facet that has earned Rotorua the moniker 'Sulphur City'. These geothermal attractions are also half the reason behind the city's tourist appeal. One such is the beautiful venue of Blue Bath Pool in the historic Government Gardens. Although it is enclosed in a pool suitable for swimming, the crystal blue water in it is fresh and geothermally heated, unlike most in-house pools' artificial mineral water.

14. Kerosene Creek

Kerosene Creek

22 km
from city center
14 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Staying true to Roturua’s endless collection of geothermal locations, Kerosene Creek is a lovely destination that attracts locals and tourists throughout the year. After all, who doesn’t like to take a dip in a naturally-heated warm pool of water and rinse off their week’s stress from the body and the mind.

15. Paradise Valley Springs

Paradise Valley Springs

9 km
from city center
15 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Paradise Valley Springs is a popular wildlife park in Rotorua, New Zealand. It is one of the many tourist attractions that people visit to escape their hectic lives and feel close to nature. The 48-acre reserve is a well-maintained facility where wildlife can thrive in the native bush environment, and people visiting can observe and study them. In addition, the place has several freshwater springs, home to a large population of freshwater trout.

16. Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

10 km
from city center
16 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Waitomo Glowworm Caves is a unique tourist attraction in Rotorua, New Zealand. The glowworm species found in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves are scientifically known as Arachnocampa Luminosa. These glowworms are found only in New Zealand. Therefore, apart from being one of the top tourist attractions in the country, the caves also attract environmentalists, ecologists and nature enthusiasts.

17. Mount Tarawera

Mount Tarawera

24 km
from city center
17 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Mount Tarawera is a famous attraction in Rotorua, New Zealand. It is an active volcano where some of the country’s most significant and destructive eruptions have occurred in the past — the notable ones being those that destroyed the Pink and White Terraces of Mount Tarawera. At present, the attraction is famous for hikes and a stunning view of Rotorua from the top of the mountain.

18. Wingspan, Rotorua

Wingspan, Rotorua

0 km
from city center
18 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Wingspan, also known as the Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre, is New Zealand's leading centre for educating, conserving and researching the birds of prey native to the region. The attraction is located in Rotorua, New Zealand. Here, tourists get to observe the birds of prey at close distances and even get an opportunity to hold them. In addition, the surroundings of Wingspan are conserved to allow the birds to thrive in their natural environment.

19. Rotorua Canopy Tours

Rotorua Canopy Tours

0 km
from city center
19 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Rotorua Canopy Tours is a one-of-a-kind eco-adventure tour conducted through the native forests on the outskirts of Rotorua in New Zealand. It is the only place in New Zealand where people can enjoy native forests and zipline tours. Rotorua Canopy Tours brings the participants face-to-face adventure and guarantees a thrilling time. Plus, the natural surroundings, with their rejuvenating vibe, double the fun for the participants.

20. Volcanic Hills Winery

Volcanic Hills Winery

4 km
from city center
20 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Located as a part of the Skyline Gondola Complex with its Tasting room situated at the top of the complex, Volcanic Hills Winery is everything the name suggests. There is an eclectic range of award-winning wines to choose from; there is a tasting room at a sky-high level and a stunning panoramic view of the Rotorua lakes looking over.

21. Motion Entertainment

Motion Entertainment

3 km
from city center
21 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Motion Entertainment is a must-do for any tourist visiting the region of Rotorua with family and kids, an indoor gaming centre with a licensed bar and cafe of its own. The place guarantees an excellent time for its customers with a wide range of indoor activities and fun sports. The center also has a specially designed conference room to organize any private event or occasion for their customers with prior notice to the event team.

22. Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park

Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park

11 km
from city center
22 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Amid native trees, forests, and natural springs in Rotorua is the Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park, surrounded by the beautiful flora and fauna of New Zealand. This park is home to the world’s largest kiwi hatchery and the ‘Big Splash’ ride, which are the main attractions here. Also, the encounters with the parakeets, geckos and dinosaur descendants, tuataras add to the beautiful experience.

23. Government Gardens

Government Gardens

1 km
from city center
23 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Overlooking the Rotorua Museum on the lake’s edge in North Island, New Zealand, are the beautiful Government Gardens (Paepaekumanu). This site was a gift to the British Crown by the local Ngati Whakaue tribe and stands today as a symbol of both the Maori and English culture. Today, the Museum, Blue Baths, Klamath Falls Rose Gardens, Te Runanga Tea Pavillion and Band Rotunda located in the gardens are the heritage tourist attractions to visit while in Rotorua, New Zealand.

24. Velocity Valley

Velocity Valley

8 km
from city center
24 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

With its six unique and thrilling rides, New Zealand’s adventure attraction, Velocity Valley, is unlike any other adventure park. With adrenaline-pumping through and trips which give out the chills, this park is the hotspot for extreme sports seekers and has the world’s only Shweeb Racer - human-powered racing pods hanging down a monorail track, in its exhibit.

25. Hamurana Springs

Hamurana Springs

11 km
from city center
25 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Located to the North-East of Lake Rotorua is the beautiful and crystal clear Hamurana Springs that appears amidst century-old redwood trees. These freshwater springs are a part of the Ngati Rangiwewehi tribe, and the journey till here is a short one through the groves alongside quiet and mesmerising views. Hamurana Springs flows into the Hamurana Springs Reserve as a stream and later joins Lake Rotorua. Hamurana Springs is surrounded by rocky structures and volcanic springs like the one near Hangarua Spring.

26. Rotorua Hot Springs

Rotorua Hot Springs

0 km
from city center
26 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Rotorua is a popular hub for outdoor activities. Most notably, the thermal activity makes it rank among the top tourist destinations of New Zealand. The thermal springs of Rotorua make it an overwhelming and relaxing vacation for tourists. There are plenty of spots in and near Rotorua to enjoy mud pools and thermal hot springs.

27. Ohinemutu

Ohinemutu

1 km
from city center
27 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Bundled amidst beautiful lakeside scenery and boiling water vents is the village of Ohinemutu in Rotorua, New Zealand. Once the central area for the region of Rotorua, this Maori village is home to the Ngati Whakaue tribe with a population of less than three hundred. An attraction site with historically magnificent highlights, the places to check out in Ohinemutu are the Tamatekapua meeting house and the St. Faith’s Church.

28. Mokoia Island

Mokoia Island

3 km
from city center
28 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

In the middle of Lake Rotorua in New Zealand is the beautiful island of Mokoia, which stays uninhabited but has now become a popular tourist spot in the country. It is a sacred land of the Te Arawa tribe and presents the tourists with stunning views of the island, including bird watch and guided tours. This island is also a sanctuary for New Zealand’s endangered species ranging from birds to wildlife, and is dipped in stories of the locals and the history of the place to be uncovered.

29. Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park

132 km
from city center
29 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

With a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site status for its volcanic landscape and cultural significance, the Tongariro National Park is a must-see attraction in Rotorua, New Zealand. It is the oldest and the first of all National Parks in the country and is a marvel of nature with three breathing volcanoes - Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro in the heart of the park. This park presents its visitors with plenty of activities like walks and treks, skiing and snowboarding on Mount Ruapehu in the winters.

30. Okere Falls

Okere Falls

16 km
from city center
30 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

On the shores of Lake Rotoiti in North Island, New Zealand, is the little town of Okere Falls, well known amongst the rafters and kayakers for its rapid water flow. Ingrained with Maori history, beautiful lakesides and waterfalls, Okere Falls claims to have the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, at 7 metres. Alongside the rafting experience, this place has a popular fishing spot – the Trout Pool. It is also home to the Okere Falls Store, which hosts the annual beer fest in October.

31. Lake Rotoiti

Lake Rotoiti

22 km
from city center
31 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

‘The Small Lake’, Lake Rotoiti in the Bay of Plenty area of New Zealand, is a relatively large lake, contrary to its name, near the famous Lake Rotorua. It is a popular site for tourists who wish to go on a boating trip, with the beautiful Manupirua Hot Springs on the lake’s shore, which can be reached only by boat.

32. Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park

Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park

0 km
from city center
32 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

OVERVIEW: Lapped inside the scenic contours of Rotorua, a place of abundant lakes and exotic fauna Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park is an exclusive wildlife centre specially curated for the tourists all across to see what New Zealand boasts of. There is an eclectic range of guided tours by some of their professional tour guides who will let you in about the varied range of reptiles, birds, mammals you will come across in their park

33. The Buried Village of Te Wairoa

The Buried Village of Te Wairoa

13 km
from city center
33 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

A century-old village, ruined due to a fatal volcanic eruption, namely the volcano of Mount of Tarawera on June 10th, 1886, now lies in fragments and desert along the coast of Lake Tarawera in New Zealand’s North Island. The spot is now a rage for tourists wide across for its local anecdotes, the fragmented relics of the past and excavation discoveries.

34. Zorb

Zorb

0 km
from city center
34 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

A fun, thrilling, adrenaline-inducing outdoor attraction for tourists visiting Rotorua, New Zealand, Zorb is a must-do for anyone and everyone. Regarded to be the world’s largest downhill ball rolling park along the slope of Mt. Rotorua, this Kiwi-owned and operated fun organization makes a good recreation for its customers, with every safety measurement taken care of along with making it fun and fulfilling.

35. Agrodome

Agrodome

0 km
from city center
35 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Located at a stretch of 350 acres of lush farming plain, Rotorua, New Zealand’s Agrodome, is a large centre offering a fulfilling experience to see the farming and animal rearing culture at a close, personal level. It is a frequently visited attraction of Rotorua where visitors come to see the Farm Show and the Farmyard Nursery and take a tour of the entire Farmland that would comprise you strolling through the lush green plains.

36. Mount Ngongotaha Scenic Reserve

Mount Ngongotaha Scenic Reserve

5 km
from city center
36 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Mount Ngongotaha is a volcanic dome located 757 metres above sea level. Rotorua city can be viewed from this scenic reserve. Mount Ngongotaha is an iconic peak for Ngāti Whakaue (Maori tribes), who believe it was once home to patupaiarehe (fairies), whose voices and flutes can be heard on the foot of the mountain on some days.

37. Hell's Gate

Hell's Gate

8 km
from city center
37 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Hell's Gate, despite its forbidding name, is one of Rotorua's most famous thermal attractions. The fuming and steaming geysers of Hell's Gates are spread over 50 acres of land. The therapeutic properties of the hot pools' mud and their renowned sulphur spa treatments are major tourist attractions for people around the country. Hell's Gate is important in Maori history and is also the site for many Maori legends.

38. Redwood Treewalk

Redwood Treewalk

0 km
from city center
38 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

A range of diverse forests, the Whakarewarewa forest, also known as the Redwoods Forest in Rotorua, is one of the greatest natural treasures that offer a variety of recreational opportunities, panoramic views and exotic species. It is located only 5 minutes away from Downtown Rotorua and is an award-winning attraction. So if you’re waiting for an outing in one of nature’s best creations, this 55,000-hectare forest awaits you.

39. Lake Tarawera

Lake Tarawera

13 km
from city center
39 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Known as ‘Burnt Spear’, Lake Tarawera is one of the largest lakes in New Zealand. Before the volcanic eruption of Mt. Tarawera in the late 19th century, it was home to several Maori settlements and villages. The place spreads over some 39 square kilometres, has no entry fees and is scenic too. The lake is a product of the volcanic activity of the Tarawera Volcanic Zone and has a high sulphur content, giving it an exotic yellowish green hue.

40. Mitai Maori Village

Mitai Maori Village

33 km
from city center
40 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Mitai Maori Village in Rotorua, New Zealand, is a way into the Maori culture with an evening of cultural events and historical highlights. From warriors in traditional attires on ancient canoes to the traditional Poi dance and dining on the delicious ‘Hangi’ lifted from the ground to the display of Maori art and history, the Mitai Maori Village Experience is an event to attend if you want to experience the beauty of Maori culture.

41. Maori Villages in Rotorua

Maori Villages in Rotorua

33 km
from city center
41 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Immersed in a cultural history like no other, the Maori Villages form an integral part of Rotorua, along with several different areas of New Zealand. The extraordinary practices, habits, and lifestyles of these tribes offer a refreshing experience to the tourists who wish to look closely into these people's lives.

42. Waikato River

Waikato River

57 km
from city center
42 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Flowing in all its glory for four hundred and twenty-five kilometres, the Waikato River has bagged the title of the longest river in New Zealand. Its journey begins in the central part of the North Island, from the eastern slopes of Mount Ruapehu, from which it flows through the largest lake of New Zealand, Lake Taupo, while joining the Tongariro River System.

43. Mountain Biking in Rotorua

Mountain Biking in Rotorua

0 km
from city center
43 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

There is something about taking trips to new places that contradicts itself. People often seek an escape from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives, to find a spot that will take them away from the grinding reality for a while. At the same time, however, they look for a place to distract them from the humdrum of their monotonous routine, the same old machine-like activities that take the majority of their days up.

44. Eat Streat

Eat Streat

1 km
from city center
44 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Eat Streat in Rotorua is one of the most fantastic food hotspots in New Zealand. With cosy cafes, quality restaurants, and lively bars, this place is a must-visit while exploring this country. Flung at the lake end of Tutanekai Street, this place receives many food connoisseurs throughout the year.

45. Rotorua Night Market

Rotorua Night Market

2 km
from city center
45 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Held at the heart of Tutanekai Street, Rotorua Night Market comes to life once every week and brings a platform where local artists can showcase their talents with many handmade art and crafts, among other things. This market spreads its wings when Tutanekai Street is closed off from Haupapa to Hinemoa Street for one night and is transformed into a lively place with vibrant LED lights, innumerable stalls, and live entertainment.

46. Whakarewarewa

Whakarewarewa

3 km
from city center
46 out of 46
Things To Do in Rotorua

Located in the geothermal region of Rotorua, New Zealand, Whakarewarewa takes pride in being known as the only Living Māori Village in the country. This village is home to the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people, who have continued to host visitors on their land for over two centuries, with fun-filled activities like the cultural experience, which includes performances of Poi and Haka dancing, the geothermal hangi experience and the hangi pie experience.

FAQs on Rotorua

What are the top activities in Rotorua?

The top activities in Rotorua are Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour, Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland , Ruakuri Black Water Rafting - Black Labyrinth, Agrodome Farm Show and Tour Tickets in Rotorua, Mitai Maori Village Evening Tour.

How can I commute within Rotorua?

Regular publici buses is the most common medium of commuting in Rotorua. The entire city is criss crossed by a total of 11 routes where the outermost route is Ngongotaha to the north-west, then Hemo Road to the south, and towards the east is the airport. These routes cover most of the cities and run every half an hour from Monday to Friday. On the weekends, they run every one hour. Every route has a different timing and there is no public holiday.
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What are the top sightseeing places in Rotorua?

The top sightseeing places in Rotorua are Orakei Korako, Blue Baths Pool, Kerosene Creek, Paradise Valley Springs, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Mount Tarawera.

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