Rotorua is an incredible North Island town with plenty of activities and sights to keep you busy. A great location to spend at least a couple of nights in, to get just a taste of why this place is so treasured.
1. Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest
The Redwoods is a stunning natural attraction. In the bustling town of Rotorua, this is a welcome escape with a peaceful vibe and an outstanding range of exotic and native trees. Feel small amongst the massive Californian Coastal Redwoods, and watch in awe as the sun pierces through the treetops. This is the spot for mountain biking and walking tracks.
2. Lake Tarawera
This spot is a go-to for sunrise or sunset, with a perfectly placed jetty and mountains bordering the lake in the distance. Lake Tarawera is a deep lake and one of New Zealand’s largest. This is one of the several picturesque lakes surrounding volcano Mount Tarawera.
Check out our list of the 10 Largest Lakes in New Zealand.
3. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Rotorua is known for its exciting geothermal activity, with mud baths, potent sulphur and geothermal pools attracting people to the town. View fascinating volcanic features at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of the most colourful New Zealand attractions. Enjoy a range of walks through the wonderland and witness the steaming grounds, naturally vibrant hot springs and large volcanic craters.
4. Hamurana Springs
Hamurana Springs is known for its remarkable, crystal clear waters. Take a 1 hour walk through the natural reserve, alongside the fresh water spring. Drive about 20 minutes around Lake Rotorua from town to get this photogenic spot.
5. Skyline Rotorua
Great for the whole family, Skyline Rotorua offers a touch of adventure, great vantage points and dining options. Enjoy a leisurely gondola ride to the Skyline complex, with views of the lake, city and iconic steaming geothermal pools. Check out the luge tracks, zip-line and Skyswing!
6. Mount Tarawera
Ever wanted to set foot on a volcano? In Rotorua, you can hike to the crater of the volcano responsible for one of the largest eruptions in New Zealand history. The walk to the top is a popular choice for keen hikers, and only possible by means of a guided tour. A spectacular adventure combining culture and natural scenery.
7. Rotorua Hot Pools
There are many hot pools in and around Rotorua, all providing a unique and blissful experience and one that you’ll want in your Insta feed. Unlike other hot pools, you can bath in geothermally heated water, sometimes with views of the surrounding forest. Some of these are totally free natural hot springs, others are thermal pools with a small cost.
8. Redwood Treewalk
Back in the Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest is the Redwoods Treewalk. Suspension bridges and majestic forest landscape – it’s a must do in Rotorua. Reach heights of between 6 and 20 metres on this 600-metre long tree walk. This is an eco-tourism activity and an incredible way to see trees that are more than 110 years old.
9. The Bath House (Rotorua Museum)
An impressive building to say the least, The Bath House is right on the edge of Rotorua town and is the local museum and art gallery. This is one of New Zealand’s most photographed buildings and should definitely be on your to-do list!
While you’re at it, check out our list of Top Museums in New Zealand.
10. Tarawera Falls Trail
If you like nature and short walks, this one’s for you! The Tarawera Falls Track runs alongside the Tarawera river and has many lookout points and information stands. Carry on past the Tarawera Falls lookout to more cascades and a swimming hole.
