During our trip to the North Island, we spent an amazing three days in Rotorua, a city known for its geothermal activity, Māori culture, and stunning natural surroundings.

The city sits on the shores of Lake Rotorua, a large volcanic lake that covers approximately 80 square kilometres. Rotorua is an active volcanic area with numerous geothermal sites showcasing bubbling mud pools, hissing steam vents, and colourful hot springs. It truly is New Zealand’s thermal hub!

Rotorua also has a rich history dating back to the 14th century when the Maori tribes settled in the area. The region is home to many sacred Maori sites and cultural experiences, where you can learn about the indigenous people of New Zealand.

And if you’re a nature lover, Rotorua offers a variety of outdoor activities from hiking and water rafting to relaxation at hot springs and spas.

So, whether you’re a family with kids or just a group of adults, there’s something for everybody at Rotorua! And that’s why we wanted to share our experiences and photos, and help you plan your trip to this wonderful city.

Top things to do in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal playground and cultural melting pot, offers an extensive list of exciting activities that cater to various interests. From exploring the geothermal wonders to experiencing Maori culture and enjoying outdoor adventures, we’re positive that you’ll find something to do or see in the city.

From our experience, here are some of the best things to do in Rotorua that showcase the city’s distinctive features that you shouldn’t miss.

1. Visit Geothermal Parks

Rotorua has several geothermal parks, including Wai-O-Tapu, Hell’s Gate, and Waimangu Volcanic Valley. And surprisingly, each park has something unique to offer. Within these incredible geothermal parks, you get to observe unique landscapes with hot springs, geysers, mud pools, and colourful mineral terraces.

During our time in Rotorua, we had the chance to visit two remarkable geothermal parks Wai-O-Tapu and Orakei Korako.

Wai-O-Tapu

The Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland stands out as New Zealand’s most vibrant geothermal attraction, with mesmerizing landscape shaped by millennia of natural geothermal processes.

Located a short 25-minute drive from the city centre, Wai-o-Tapu offers you a chance to witness volcanic features within touching distance.

The highlight for many is the daily eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser at 10:15 am. Although the eruption is assisted, it still is a beautiful sight to behold.

Make sure to arrive at the park by 10 am and park your vehicle next to the Lady Knox Geyser. After the eruption, you can drive to the main car park, which is a 3-minute drive.

Inside the main park, there are three walking options to choose, ranging from 1.5 km to 3 km. And while the shortest route can be completed in as little as 30 minutes, it’s advisable to explore at your own pace.

Inside, you’ll learn why Wai-o-Tapu is often referred to as the most colourful geothermal park in the country. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the beauty of the massive volcanic craters, sinter terraces, the iconic “Champagne Pool” and “Devil’s Bath”.

Remember, the park’s last entry is at 3 PM, so make the most of your time exploring this extraordinary geothermal wonderland.

Orakei Korako

If we’re being honest, we preferred Orakei Korako to Wai-O-Tapu.

Orakei Korako is a mere 25-minute drive from Taupo and 45 from Rotorua, and is nestled on the shores of Lake Ohakuri.

Orakei Korako, which translates to “the place of adorning,” is located in a beautiful valley bursting with vibrant hues, steaming hot springs, erupting geysers, and mesmerizing natural splendour shielded from the outside world by its seclusion.

Once you park your car, you have to take a boat ride across the lake to start your self-guided tour. A leisurely self-guided stroll through Rotorua’s geothermal area mainly consists of traversing boardwalk tracks, and typically takes between one and two hours to finish. The walk showcases a moderate level of difficulty.

The highlight at Orakei Korako is the Ruatapu Cave, one of only two geothermal caves known worldwide, offering a captivating glimpse 120 feet (36.58 metres) down into a thermal mirror pool nestled at the cave’s depths.

But personally, I found the “Golden Fleece Terrace” and the “Artist’s Palette” to be the most beautiful attractions with Orakei Korako.

Make sure you check out our photo gallery from Orakei Korako for more stunning images.

Other geothermal parks

And of course, there are so many other geothermal parks in the area that we couldn’t visit. A full list can be seen on the official Rotorua site.

Also, don’t forget to visit Kuirau Park and the Government Gardens, located just a short stroll from the city centre. Both offer free admission and a chance to witness geothermal activity right in the middle of Rotorua.

2. Relax in a Hot Spring or Mud Bath

Although we didn’t get a chance to try it, but one of the best ways to unwind and relax in Rotorua is by indulging in a mud bath. The natural mineral-rich waters offer numerous health benefits, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

There are many mud baths to choose from, but popular options include the Polynesian Spa, Hells Gate, and Hamuka Mud Baths.

3. Experience a Māori Cultural Performance and Hāngī Feast

One of the highlights of our visit to Rotorua was visiting the Mitai Maori Village.

The 3-hour experience gave us a first-hand insight into the Maori people, their culture, their history, and their language.

We were fortunate to experience a cultural performance by the tribe including the Haka, and go for a tour around their sacred village.

However, the highlight of our visit was the hāngī feast. A hāngī is a traditional Maori cooking method where food is cooked in an underground oven. The process involves digging a pit in the ground, heating stones until they are extremely hot, then placing the food such as fish and kumara (sweet potato) in baskets on top of the hot stones. The food is then covered with wet cloths, soil, and leaves to retain heat and steam, creating a unique and flavourful cooking environment.

The hāngī is left to cook for several hours, resulting in tender and succulent dishes with a smoky, earthy flavour. It was one of the best meals we had while in Rotorua!

4. Explore Rotorua’s Lakes

In the vicinity of Rotorua, there are numerous lakes that contribute to the natural beauty of the region and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation. I had the pleasure of visiting many of these lakes, and these are the ones I highly recommend.

Lake Rotorua

Lake Rotorua, the city’s namesake lake, is the largest of the lakes in the area. In fact, it might be hard to miss this lake given that the city is located on its shores.

This expansive lake, covering an area of approximately 80 square kilometres, offers a serene setting with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings of lush forests and volcanic hills.

Lake Rotorua is not only a popular spot for water activities like boating and fishing but also serves as a sacred site for the local indigenous people.

During our time in Rotorua, we often found ourselves sitting by the lake’s shores and enjoying a coffee. The lake also attracts numerous birds making it an ideal location to simply unwind, right in the heart of the city.

Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Rotokākahi (Green Lake)

Lake Tikitapu, commonly known as Blue Lake, and Lake Rotokākahi, known as Green Lake, are two stunning lakes located near Rotorua, New Zealand. And although both lakes are adjacent to one another, they couldn’t be more different.

Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) gets its name from the place the daughter of the high-born child lost her sacred greenstone neck ornament (Tikitapu) and was formed almost 13,500 years ago.

The Blue Lake lives up to its name with its vibrant blue waters, created by the reflection of the sky from the white rhyolite and pumice bottom. This picturesque lake is popular for its clear waters and sandy beaches, making it a favoured spot for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. Surrounding the lake are lush native forests and rolling hills, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and outdoor activities.

If I’m being perfectly honest, Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) is my favourite lake in the area! Its peaceful shores and serene surrounding made me visit it multiple times!

On the other hand, Lake Rotokākahi (Green Lake) derives its name from the greenish tint of its waters and is named after the shellfish (kakahi). The lake gets its colour due to its shallow and sandy bottom.

This lake holds great cultural significance to the local Maori community (it is privately owned by the local iwi tribe), as it is considered tapu (sacred) and is not used for recreational purposes. Instead, visitors can appreciate the natural beauty of Green Lake from various viewpoints.

To truly appreciate the difference between the two lakes, drive to the strip of land between the two lakes. Climb up on to the mound at the lookout point from where you can see the two lakes at the same time, with their distinct colours.

Lake Tarawera

The final lake near Rotorua that stole my heart was Lake Tarawera, which is a short drive from the Green Lake. Lake Tarawera is considered one of New Zealand’s largest and most picturesque lakes, renowned for its rainbow trout population and scenic beauty.

The area’s history is marked by the volcanic eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886, which reshaped the landscape and led to the demise of Māori villages and missionary settlements. Prior to the eruption, Tarawera was a hub for tourism, with visitors flocking to see the Pink and White Terraces on Lake Rotomahana, dubbed the 8th Natural Wonder of the World. The eruption buried these attractions under ash, leading to the relocation of survivors and the continuation of guiding traditions in nearby Whakarewarewa Village.

I spent a whole afternoon, sitting by the lake (with no one else around) appreciating the views of the Wahanga Dome and Mount Tarawera on the other side.

5. Visit the Rotorua Museum and Government Gardens

The Rotorua Museum and Government Gardens are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the rich history and culture of Rotorua.

Located in the heart of the city, these two attractions offer a unique blend of art, history, and natural beauty.

The Rotorua Museum, housed in an iconic Tudor-style building, is a cultural and historical landmark. Known as one of the country’s most photographed structures, the museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through the region’s rich heritage and diverse culture. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs.

Adjacent to the Rotorua Museum lies the magnificent Government Gardens, a sprawling oasis of manicured lawns, flower beds, and hot springs. This picturesque setting is not only a popular spot for relaxing strolls and picnics but also serves as a historical treasure trove in its own right.

When we visited, the museum was unfortunately closed, but we spent the evening walking around and admiring the beautiful gardens. But the highlight for us were the numerous hot springs hidden all around the garden.

6. Explore Rotorua’s Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest

Nestled on the outskirts of Rotorua, the Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest is something you cannot miss while you’re in the city!

Covering over 5600 hectares of pristine wilderness, this majestic forest offers a serene escape for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventurers. Characterized by towering California redwoods, the forest provides a tranquil setting for hiking, mountain biking, and immersing oneself amidst these giants.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest serves as a cultural and historical landmark for the local Maori community.

There is a network of well-maintained trails offers a range of options for all skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes and adrenaline-pumping mountain biking tracks. You can see the full list of possible activities on their website.

One of the highlights of the forest is the Redwood Treewalk, a suspended bridge high among the canopy that provides breathtaking views of the towering redwoods and the surrounding landscape.

This attraction features a 700-meter-long tree walk consisting of 28 suspension bridges connecting majestic 117-year-old Redwood Trees, offering a unique experience 20 meters above the forest floor.

7. Embark on a Hike

With its geothermal wonders, lush forests, and stunning scenery, Rotorua is a hiker’s paradise!

As we just mentioned, one of the must-visit hiking destinations is the Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest. This picturesque forest features a network of trails suitable for all skill levels, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the redwood trees and native flora.

For those seeking panoramic views, there are numerous hiking trails around and up Mount Tarawera that promise to be challenging yet rewarding.

Another popular hiking spot is the Blue Lake Track, that offers a scenic loop trail around the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tikitapu, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a refreshing swim.

Although we planned to embark on the Blue Lake Track, we instead chose the Okere Falls Track. This trail is a well-formed bush walk with scenic lookouts over the Kaituna River and its spectacular waterfalls. Along the track, you can also watch rafters and kayakers come down over the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world!

The Rainbow Mountain Summit Track is another popular option that leads you to the summit of Mt Kakaramea, from where you can marvel at the colourful mineral deposits and expansive views of the surrounding countryside.

Like I said, Rotorua is a hikers’ paradise, and we’re positive that you can find a hike that suits you in the region. You can see a list of hikes on the official website.

8. Take a Scenic Flight over the Region

Another way to appreciate the beauty and natural wonders of the region is from the sky!

Based on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Volcanic Air offers a comprehensive range of scenic flights and air and land tours in the region. You can hire a helicopter or float plane on one of the many tours to explore the areas volcanoes, geothermal reserves and lakes.

Check out their most popular tour to Mount Tarawera and Waimangu Valley or others on their website.

9. Kaituna River Rafting

If you’re an adventure junkie, there is no way that you can leave Rotorua without rafting on the world-famous Kaituna River!

The renowned Kaituna River offers an exhilarating experience for rafting enthusiasts, featuring an adrenaline-pumping 50-minute journey through 11 thrilling rapids and three impressive waterfalls, including the world’s highest rafted waterfall.

At 23 feet (or 7 metres), Tutea Falls Is the highest commercially raftable route in the world! Although we went river rafting in New Zealand, it just wasn’t here. But during our Okere Falls hike, we witnessed these daredevils plunge down (some upside down) the famous Tutea Falls.

It was quite a sight. We could feel the rush standing 50 metres away!

10. Take a Day Trip to Hobbiton

If you haven’t already, set out on a magical day-trip from Rotorua to the exciting Hobbiton Movie Set, a must-visit destination for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies.

Located approximately 69 kilometres away from Rotorua, the journey to Hobbiton takes about an hour by road, passing through scenic countryside along the way. And if you don’t feel like driving, you can always opt for a tour from Rotorua.

Guided tours of the Hobbiton Movie Set offer insightful commentary on the film-making process and behind-the-scenes stories, providing a deeper understanding of the intricate details that went into creating this fantastical movie set. Witness the craftsmanship and attention to detail that makes this attraction a beloved highlight for movie buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.

If you still aren’t convinced, be sure to read our honest review of visiting Hobbiton, what we loved and what we didn’t.

11. Explore the City’s Culinary Scene

When we travel to a new city, one of our favourite things to do as food enthusiasts is to explore its culinary scene. In Rotorua, we discovered a plethora of fantastic dining options right in the heart of the city.

Pig & Whistle Historic Pub is a beloved establishment revered for its cosy ambiance, wide selection of craft beers, delicious pub fare, and weekend live entertainment.

For those dining in a large group and seeking generous portions for sharing, The Fainting Goat is the go-to spot where satisfaction is guaranteed. If you’re in the mood for a quick and nutritious meal or breakfast, Capers Cafe + Store is a standout choice.

And of course, a visit to Rotorua wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Eat Street. While slightly touristy, this pedestrian-only thoroughfare is a convenient hub for visitors, boasting an array of restaurants, cafés, and bars serving diverse cuisines and beverages. During our time at Eat Street, we dined at Atticus Finch and highly recommend it as a memorable dining experience.

Accommodation in Rotorua

The best way to enjoy everything that Rotorua has to offer is to spend at least 2 to 3 nights in the city. You can find comfortable and economical accommodation in the city centre or on the outskirts.

Our Guide to Rotorua

We hope you enjoyed reading our guide to Rotorua and that it got you excited about visiting this incredible city on New Zealand’s North Island. Be sure to check out our photo gallery of Rotorua for more images from this amazing city.

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the beauty and culture of New Zealand in a truly unique and memorable way. And with so much to see and do, Rotorua promises a diverse and exciting array of experiences that cater to every taste and interest.