Rotorua is famous for bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs and shooting geysers, a true reflection of the fabulous Māori culture.
It is a land of truly enchanting forests and dazzling streams, thermal mud pools and adventurous biking trails.
The city provides a potpourri of experiences and attractions, one for everyone—from the casual traveler to the hardcore adventure-seeker.
The popular Pacific Rim of Fire is a geothermal marvel with hot springs, clouds of steam and mudpot for a relaxing bath.
If reveling at the sight of the unique landscapes and volcanic eruptions all inside a geothermal park isn’t enough, you can take a dip in a natural hot stream or spoil yourself in a local wellness retreat.
Next, purge your hunger pan with a Maori cultural style hangi feast cooked in the simmering ground or experience the mild vivacity of a pre-European village.
Or make a perfect date with nature: the city has 18 freshwater lakes and several rivers, peaks and native forests; it’s your call.
Rotorua is a cut above the rest when it comes to world-class mountain biking trails.
Horse riding, walking, fishing and swimming in the rivers and lakes offer an instant connect with nature and wildlife, and also help unravel some of the hidden mysteries of the region.
There’s also a large trout fishing area that allows fishing on the tributaries and lakes. Lucky for you if you can get to see big trout at the Fairy Springs and Rainbow, though not quite catch them.
If your adrenaline switch turns on, indulge in extreme sports ranging from bungy jumping and luging to ziplining and zorbing. Not to mention that Rotorua has the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, the Tutea Falls.
There are a range of activities for kids including wildlife and leisure parks around the region.
Rotorua has you food and drink needs well covered in Eat Streat, one of the coolest hot spots in the city having major restaurants, cafés, bars and craft markets, with enhanced lighting and thermally heated footpath.
As Rotorua is situated in the heart of the North Island, it is easy to reach Mt Ruapehu ski fields (under two hours travel time) and the nearest beach town in no more than an hour.
