Widely considered one of the top attractions in New Zealand’s North Island, the town of Rotorua is a landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and beautiful lakes located a three-hour drive south of bustling Auckland. Delve into a world of bubbling geothermal pools, colorful sulphur formations, and steaming geysers on tours through the volcanic valley Waimangu or Wai-O-Tapu, with its Lady Knox Geyser (arrive in the morning to view it erupt); or take to the skies by helicopter for a sightseeing flight over White Island, an active offshore volcano. Learn of Maori heritage and tradition at the Mitai Maori Village, Te Puia, or Whakarewarewa. For more on indigenous culture, book a guided experience involving a Maori “hangi” dinner, cooked over hot pools and steam vents, which can be combined with a cultural performance. Fans of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy and “The Hobbit” can't miss a visit to Hobbiton, the filmic home of Bilbo Baggins, on a guided tour. Visitors heading to Rotorua in search of adrenaline-pumping adventure can challenge themselves against the swirling rapids on a rafting tour of the Kaituna or Rangitaiki rivers, or perhaps strap in for a jet-boat ride through Tutukau Gorge—home to hidden waterfalls and thermal pools. For something a little more relaxing, take to Lake Rotoiti by kayak to visit glowworm caves and watch as the sun sets on the horizon.
Rotorua is best known for its bubbling mud pools, hot water geysers, geothermal parks, and Maori culture. It’s in the geothermally active central North Island, which has been a hub of Maori culture for centuries. Hell’s Gate, Whakarewarewa, and Wai-O-Tapu are among the most famous attractions.
...MoreThe main things to do in Rotorua revolve around the geothermal features and Maori culture. See bubbling mud pools, spurting geysers, and colorful boiling pools at geothermal parks including Hell’s Gate, Whakarewarewa, and Wai-O-Tapu. Learn more about Maori culture at a dance performance with a hangi meal.
...MoreYes. Rotorua is a city in New Zealand. Rotorua is also the name of the lake upon which the city sits.
...MoreSpend one day in Rotorua by visiting one or two geothermal parks to be wowed by the forces of nature, including mud pools, geysers, and colorful rock formations. Rest and rejuvenate at a spa fed by naturally heated waters, and enjoy an evening Maori cultural performance and traditional hangi meal.
...MoreYes. Rotorua is generally a safe city to visit. Unfortunately, Rotorua has one of the highest crime rates among New Zealand cities, so take regular precautions with your valuables and when out on foot at night. Rates of violent crime and petty theft targeting travelers are still very low.
...MoreYou don’t have to spend money for a good time in Rotorua. Wander around the free Kuirau Park, with geothermal attractions. Bathe in the hot waters of Kerosene Creek or the swimming hole at Wai-O-Tapu (beyond the ticketed park). Walk or cycle through forest parks and around Lake Rotorua.
...MoreNumber of Attractions | 29 |
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Number of Tours | 84 |
Number of Reviews | 12,204 |
Currency | NZD |
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