Rotorua

General Info

Rotorua, located in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand’s North Island, is a city renowned for its geothermal activity and Maori culture. With a metropolitan population of approximately 78,000, Rotorua is a major tourism destination famous for its hot springs, geysers, mud pools, and vibrant Maori heritage.

The city sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it a hub of geothermal phenomena. Rotorua also offers visitors an opportunity to experience rich cultural traditions, adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re exploring bubbling geothermal parks or immersing yourself in Maori history, Rotorua has something for everyone.

Top 10 Key Tourism Activities

1. Visit Whakarewarewa Thermal Village – Explore this living Maori village, where locals still use geothermal activity for cooking and bathing, and learn about Maori culture and history.

2. Relax at Polynesian Spa – Unwind in the therapeutic hot mineral pools at the renowned Polynesian Spa, offering stunning lake views.

3. Rotorua Skyline Luge – Experience the thrill of riding a luge down scenic tracks on Mount Ngongotaha, with panoramic views of Rotorua.

4. Explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland – Visit this colorful geothermal park with spectacular hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and the famous Champagne Pool.

5. Rotorua Gondola Ride – Take a scenic gondola ride up Mount Ngongotaha for breathtaking views of the city, lake, and surrounding mountains.

6. Ziplining in Rotorua Forest – Soar through the treetops of Rotorua's native forests with an exciting zipline adventure, offering stunning forest views.

7. Te Puia Geothermal Park – Explore geysers, hot springs, and mud pools at this geothermal park, and experience authentic Maori performances and cultural demonstrations.

8. White Water Rafting on the Kaituna River – For thrill-seekers, white water rafting on the Kaituna River is a must-do, featuring the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall.

9. Visit the Rotorua Museum – Learn about the region’s fascinating history, from its Maori heritage to the early days of European settlement, in the beautifully restored Bath House building.

10. Horseback Riding in Whakarewarewa Forest – Ride through the stunning Whakarewarewa Forest, famous for its towering redwoods, offering an incredible scenic horseback riding experience.

Top 10 Natural Attractions

1. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland – A geothermal area with stunning natural features such as vibrant hot springs, mud pools, and geysers, including the famous Lady Knox Geyser.

2. Whakarewarewa Forest – Known for its towering redwood trees, this forest offers scenic walking, biking trails, and an incredible experience amidst nature.

3. Lake Rotorua – The city’s namesake lake, perfect for boating, fishing, or taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and geothermal fields.

4. Te Puia Geothermal Valley – This geothermal park features bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and natural springs, as well as cultural demonstrations of Maori traditions.

5. Redwoods Treewalk – Experience the beauty of Rotorua’s redwood forest on a suspended treewalk, offering a unique vantage point of the forest’s towering trees.

6. Huka Falls – A powerful and impressive waterfall located near Taupo, known for its striking blue water and breathtaking surrounding scenery.

7. Kuirau Park – A public park with geothermal features such as bubbling mud pools and steaming vents, offering a free and accessible way to experience Rotorua’s geothermal activity.

8. Lake Tarawera – A scenic and serene lake surrounded by forested hills, ideal for kayaking, hiking, and enjoying the peaceful natural environment.

9. Mokoia Island – A small, uninhabited island in Lake Rotorua, known for its Maori legends and rich biodiversity, including native birds and plant life.

10. Waimangu Volcanic Valley – A geothermal valley with hot springs, craters, and mud pools, offering walking tracks to explore the active geothermal landscape.

Rotorua’s combination of geothermal wonders, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences makes it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the heart of New Zealand’s natural and cultural heritage.