3 Days in Rotorua: Suggested Itineraries

Written by Viator, August 2010

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:
Cultural Experience, Must-Do Experience, Nature & Wildlife

3 Days in Rotorua: Suggested Itineraries

Rotorua has something for everyone, from geothermal activity and luxurious mud baths to Maori cultural experiences and adrenaline rushes. "The Sulphur City" on New Zealand's North Island is the place to head for natural beauty, adventure and relaxation.

Day 1: Discover Rotorua Icons & Maori Culture

Experience the scenic beauty, history and culture of Rotorua, viewing geysers and boiling mud pools at Te Puia and Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve and see traditional arts and culture at the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. The Skyline Gondola offers magnificent views, while the buried village of Te Wairoa and Rotorua Museum take you deep into the past.

Maori culture is a major attraction in Rotorua with cultural performances including a greeting ceremony, traditional dances, singing and hakas, combined with a hangi.

Day 2: Eco thermal lakes and bubbling mud spa

Rotorua is best known for its thermal activity. Head to Kuirau Park in the city center to glimpse steamy bubbling pools, visit Whakerewarewa for expansive mud pools and gushing geysers or relax in one of the many thermal spas. Drive through farmland and native forests to the boiling mudpool and colorful hot springs at Wai-O-Tapu. Explore the stunning lakes district scenery of amazingly clear and colorful Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokakahi.

Day 3: Extreme Rotorua: Adventure & Adrenaline

Those who fancy a more intense thrill don’t have to travel far. Helicopter flights take you over lakes, forest and the volcanic fault line, some flying over an active volcano. Land on White Island, the most continuously active of New Zealand's volcanoes, and take a trek up to the crater. Or do the Zorb, a large inflatable plastic bubble that you ride in down a hill - totally addictive and unmissable. Try black water rafting into the Black Abyss of Waitamo Caves.

Ready for more adventures? Go white-water rafting on the Kaituna River or take the easier Rangitaiki River, try skydiving into a paddock, a 4WD bush safari, or the short and steep 10-minute thrill ride.

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All 3 Days in Rotorua: Suggested Itineraries Reviews

Reply by Viator, May 2013
Doing what: Rotorua Maori Hangi Dinner and Performance

We had a wonderful night right from the very start when we were picked up from our hotel by a very entertaining coach driver Mark. It was rather wet, but this did not hamper the traditional greetings and the visit round the village. We then moved inside a large hall where more traditions were explained through dances and displays. Some visitors were given lessons in how to perform the haka. Next we moved to the fire pit where the hangi dinner was being cooked, the food was delicious and cooked to perfection. We had a choice of Lamb and Chicken, with potatoes and sweet potatoes. There were further choices available once we were in the dining area. The dessert was just as good as the main meal. It was a very memorable night and I would like to thank everyone who made our evening so enjoyable.

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Reply by Viator, April 2013
Doing what: Kaituna River White Water Rafting from Rotorua

This was absolutely awesome! Our guide was great and going down the waterfalls was incredible. I'd totally recommend this!

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Reply by Viator, April 2013
Doing what: Rotorua Maori Hangi Dinner and Performance

Very interesting as we learn the in-dept knowledge of the Maori culture. Kia Ora!!

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