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Home » 32 Awesome Things to Do in Rotorua, New Zealand

32 Awesome Things to Do in Rotorua, New Zealand

Geothermal activity, Maori culture, and the pungent smell of rotten eggs — Rotorua is without a doubt one of the best places to visit on New Zealand’s North Island.

If you’re interested in adrenaline-packed activities, Rotorua has you covered. You’ll find ziplines, scenic flights, and the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall just minutes away from the city centre. Nature lovers won’t be bored, either — hot pools, natural springs, bubbling geysers, and native forest are some of the main attractions.

Besides the beautiful scenery, the city of Rotorua is one of the top places to experience Māori culture in Aotearoa. Taking a guided tour through a living village is a great way to learn about the traditions and customs of the indigenous population.

Here are 32 of the absolute best things to do in Rotorua!

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redwoods tree walk, rotorua, north island new zealand
Short on time?

Here are my top recommendations for the best things to do in Rotorua that you definitely shouldn’t miss!

Things to do in Rotorua

This guide to the best things to do in Rotorua is split up by category:

  • Geothermal activities: Anything bubbly, steamy, or explosive
  • Things to do for nature lovers: Hikes and natural attractions
  • Relaxing and pampering: Spas and hot pools
  • Food and culture: Maori villages, food tours, places to eat
  • Bucket list activities: Adrenaline activities and unique things to do

At the end of this post, I’ve also listed a few of the best places to travel if you’re looking for a day trip from Rotorua. These places are all located within a few hours of the Rotorua region, and would make awesome places to visit in and of themselves as well!

How to use this map: Click “View larger map” in the top right corner. From there, you can view each location and save your favorites to your own Google Maps lists!

Geothermal attractions in Rotorua

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a mega popular geothermal attraction in Rotorua. It’s a large, sprawling area known for its unique and brightly colored features, including hot springs, bubbling mud pools, geysers, and volcanic craters.

One of the most famous features of the park is the Champagne Pool, which is a large, steaming hot spring with a bright orange and green rim. Other highlights include the Devil’s Bath, a bright green pool of acidic water, and the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts once a day at 10:15 am.

Wai-O-Tapu is definitely a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in natural phenomena. Walking through the geothermal park is so much fun and a great activity for the whole family!

Te Puia Valley

Located just south of Rotorua’s city center, Te Puia is a geothermal valley and Maori cultural center. The valley showcases Aotearoa New Zealand’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage in an interesting and accessible way.

One of the main attractions in Te Puia is the Pohutu Geyser, which is one of the largest active geysers in the Southern Hemisphere. You can watch the geyser erupt several times a day, with each eruption reaching heights of up to 30 m (100 ft)!

Besides geothermal activity, Te Puia is also home to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. There, you can watch master carvers and weavers at work and purchase traditional Maori crafts.

Kuirau Park

Kuirau Park is the best way to experience Rotorua’s geothermal activity on a budget — entrance to the park and its bubbling mud pools is completely free!

The mud pools are natural pools of mud that are formed by the interaction of hot water and underground minerals. They bubble, churn, release steam, and emit a distinctive sulfur (rotten egg) smell. Awesome!

My personal favorite part of the park is the natural bath where you can soak your feet and legs in warm water. The foot bath was definitely a welcome sight after days of nonstop rain and cold weather.

Things to do in Rotorua: Kuirau Park Mud Pools

Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Another one of Rotorua’s popular geothermal attractions, Waimangu Volcanic Valley was created in 1886 by the eruption of Mount Tarawera. The eruption destroyed nearby villages and formed several new geothermal features in the area.

One of the coolest attractions at Waimangu is Frying Pan Lake, the world’s largest hot spring. Other points of interest include Inferno Crater, which is a boiling lake of acid water, and the Cathedral Rocks, which are colorful mineral deposits.

Sulphur Point

Sulphur Point is a peninsula on the southern edge of Lake Rotorua with hot pools and mud pools. You can walk along the boardwalks and observe the geothermal activity up close and personal.

Like Kuirau Park, Sulphur Point is a completely free activity in Rotorua!

Because of the area’s dangerous features and lack of barriers, I probably wouldn’t recommend Sulphur Point for anyone traveling with young children. Some of the walkways are narrow and it seems like it would be easy to fall in if you aren’t paying attention!

Things to do in Rotorua for nature lovers

See some glow worms

Seeing glow worms is an absolute must on any New Zealand itinerary.

These little insects (that are actually fungus gnats, not worms!) glow blue using bioluminescence. Their sticky, shimmering strands dangle from the walls of caves and other sheltered environments to attract and catch their prey.

This guided stand-up paddle board tour takes you into caves and rock formations on Lake Rotorua, while this nighttime bush walk helps you spot glow worms in native forest.

Go mountain biking

With over 350 km (217 mi) of mountain bike trails, Rotorua is a world-class destination for those looking to go off-road cycling.

The Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest and the Skyline Rotorua MTB Park are two of the top places in the city for downhill mountain biking. You’ll find plenty of different trail networks and routes to choose from.

Hike Okere Falls

Located off of the northern edge of Lake Rotoiti, the Okere Falls Track is an easy short walk with stunning waterfalls and beautiful natural surroundings.

The track is 2.4 km (1.5 mi) long and takes about an hour round-trip. Along the way, you’ll hear the sounds of native birds, walk through lush forest, and marvel at the power of the Kaituna River. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to watch rafters and kayakers shoot down some of the waterfalls!

The Okere Falls Track is another great (and free!) place to see glow worms as well. You’ll have to venture into a dank and spooky cave, but seeing the glow worms up close is more than worth it.

Take a guided horse trek

One of the most fantastic things to do in Rotorua if you love nature is to explore the New Zealand countryside on horseback.

These guided horse treks head into the foothills of Mt Ngongotaha, cross through native bush, and get amazing views over Lake Rotorua. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced riders and would be a great activity for the whole family.

Lake Okareka Reserve and Walkway

Lake Okareka Reserve and Walkway is a scenic area popular with nature lovers, hikers, and bird watchers alike. It’s one of the best places in Rotorua to enjoy lush greenery and wildlife, completely free!

There are a variety of walking tracks at Lake Okareka to choose from. The tracks vary in length and difficulty, catering to both beginner and experienced hikers.

One of the highlights of the reserve is the native birdlife. The area is home to tons of different species of birds, including tui, bellbirds, and kereru (New Zealand pigeon).

Kayak Lake Rotoiti

Getting out on the water is another fun way to experience all of the natural beauty Rotorua has to offer. The neighboring Lake Rotoiti is a bit smaller, but just as scenic.

This evening kayak tour takes you out on Lake Rotoiti and gives you the chance to see natural hot pools and glow worm caves that are only accessible by boat.

Tarawera Falls

Tarawera Falls is a stunning 65 m (213 ft) tall waterfall near Rotorua with a rich history.

It’s believed that the falls were named after a Maori chief, Tarawera, who was buried in the area. The waterfall was also an important landmark for early Maori settlers who used it as a navigational point!

The Tarawera Falls Track is 1.4 km (0.8 mi) long and takes about 30 minutes there and back.

To visit Tarawera Falls, you’ll need to purchase an access permit. They cost $10 NZD and can be purchased from the Kawerau i-SITE Visitor Centre.

Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve

Located just south of Rotorua, Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve is a great area for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. There are a number of trails to choose from, each with panoramic views of the Waimangu Valley and Lake Rotomahana.

One of the most popular hiking trails is the Maunga Kakaramea Summit Track. This challenging day hike is 6 km (3.7 mi) long and takes about 2-3 hours roundtrip to complete.

Along the way, you’ll see a volcanic crater lake, geothermal vents, and steam coming out of the ground. On a sunny day, the reserve’s rainbow-like colors are are particularly vibrant!

National Kiwi Hatchery

If interacting with adorable baby flightless birds sounds like a good time, the National Kiwi Hatchery is the place for you!

The National Kiwi Hatchery is a conservation facility whose primary goal is to help protect and increase the population of kiwi birds, which are endemic to New Zealand and considered a national icon.

There, a team of dedicated conservationists and wildlife experts work to breed kiwi birds in captivity and release them back into the wild.

You can take a guided tour of the facility to learn about the kiwi breeding and hatching process, and see the adorable kiwi chicks up close.

Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre

The Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre is a unique and educational attraction in Rotorua’s Ngongotaha Valley. It’s dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of native bird of prey species, like New Zealand falcons and Morepork owls.

The centre gives you the chance to get up close and personal with these magnificent birds. On a tour, you’ll be able to learn about the birds and see them in their natural habitats.

To visit the Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre, you’ll need to make an advance booking by calling 07 357 4469 or emailing wingspan.nz@gmail.com. Tickets cost $30 per adult and $15 per child (ages 5-15).

Redwoods Treewalk

Redwoods Treewalk is located in the northern end of the Whakarewarewa Forest, one of the oldest introduced forests in New Zealand. This eco-tourism experience gives you the opportunity to walk amongst the treetops and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.

The 700 m (0.4 mi) long treewalk consists of a series of walkways and suspension bridges that are designed to be both eco-friendly and visually stunning. They range in height from 9-20 m (30-66 ft), giving you a bird’s eye view of the forest and treetops.

If you’d prefer to experience the magic of the forest from ground level, there are also a number of trails you can explore in the area for free. The towering redwoods and the sounds of native birds create a really relaxing peaceful environment.

At sunset, the Redwoods Treewalk transforms into a magical and otherworldly experience. The walkways are illuminated with eco-friendly lights and dozens of handmade lanterns glow between the trees.

We loved our nighttime experience at Redwoods Treewalk — there’s something super special about being able to explore the forest after dark. I’d recommend starting your walk around sunset. That way, you’ll see everything as it starts to light up!

Tickets to the treewalk cost $39 per adult and $24 per child (ages 5-15). There are also family packages and annual passes available to save a bit of money.

Relaxing things to do in Rotorua

Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa

Hell’s Gate is one of the most popular relaxing attractions in Rotorua. Part geothermal reserve, part day spa, it features boiling hot pools, steaming fumaroles, and erupting geysers.

Like other geothermal activities in the city, the reserve offers guided tours where you can learn about the natural features and the cultural significance of the area to the local Maori people.

In addition to the geothermal features, Hell’s Gate also has a spa where you can soak in warm mud baths, which are believed to have therapeutic properties for the skin and joints. The reserve sources the mineral-rich mud from a nearby geothermal pool.

Tickets to Hell’s Gate can include just the geothermal reserve, just the mud bath and spa, or a combination of the two.

Polynesian Spa

Located on the shores of the lake, Polynesian Spa is a relaxing and family-friendly thing to do in Rotorua. They offer alkaline and acidic mineral hot pools, a cold plunge pool, and an indoor relaxation lounge. Family pools and private pools are also available.

In addition to the hot pools, the Polynesian Spa also offers a variety of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. The spa’s signature treatment is the Aix massage, which involves a therapist using water and massage techniques to relax and rejuvenate the body.

Secret Spot Hot Tubs

If you’re looking for a more private and luxurious experience, soaking in a Secret Spot Hot Tub could be the perfect activity for you!

Secret Spot is a secluded oasis of hot tubs nestled in a peaceful forest setting. Each tub is made from natural materials and is filled with fresh, untreated water from a nearby spring.

During your 45-minute soak, you can enjoy the relaxing sounds of the forest and have drinks delivered to you at the push of a button. On weekends, Secret Spot often has live music playing near the communal bar area.

Soak in Kerosene Creek

For those looking to soak in Rotorua’s geothermal pools on a budget, look no further than Kerosene Creek. This free attraction can reach up to 37°C (98°F), making it a warm and inviting spot for a dip.

Kerosene Creek is a small stream that runs through a forested area and is fed by a natural hot spring. The creek is surrounded by lush vegetation and has several small waterfalls and pools to relax in.

Kerosene Creek is located about 25 minutes south of Rotorua’s city center. It’s important to note that there are no facilities or amenities provided — make sure to bring a towel and some snacks!

Food & culture in Rotorua

Rotorua Museum

Originally built in 1908 as a bath house, the Rotorua Museum showcases the history and culture of the Rotorua region.

Inside the museum, you can explore exhibitions on Maori culture, the region’s geothermal activity, and the history of Rotorua. You can also explore the gardens and the historic grounds of the museum, which include the Government Gardens, an early 20th century park.

The Rotorua Museum is a great way to learn about the history and culture of the region. Its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in New Zealand’s cultural heritage.

Note: The museum is currently closed for earthquake-related renovations. It’s expected to open back up towards the end of 2025.

Visit a Maori village

Visiting a traditional Maori village is an excellent way to learn about and experience Maori culture firsthand.

Each village typically offers a guided tour, cultural performances, and hands-on experiences that showcase traditional Maori customs, such as weaving, carving, and haka dancing. You can also learn about the history and significance of Maori art, music, and storytelling.

In addition to cultural experiences, many Maori villages also offer the opportunity to sample traditional Maori cuisine, which often includes dishes cooked in an earth oven (known as a hangi).

There are several authentic Maori villages you can visit in Rotorua. Here are a few of the best:

  • Whakarewarewa Living Village: Offers village tours and self-guided geothermal trails
  • Mitai Maori Village: Bush walks to a glow worm cave and an earth-cooked hangi buffet
  • Te Pa Tu: Previously known as Tamaki Maori Village, offers cultural performances and a 4-course Maori fusion feast

Visit a jade carving studio

Jade, also known as greenstone or pounamu, is a highly prized stone in Maori culture and is considered a taonga (treasure).

Jade carving involves the skillful shaping and polishing of the stone to create intricate and meaningful designs. These designs often represent important aspects of Maori culture and spirituality, such as ancestral figures, natural elements, and spiritual symbols.

Many jade carvers in Rotorua offer guided tours of their workshops, where you can learn about the significance of jade in Maori culture and watch skilled artisans at work.

One of the most popular workshops in Rotorua is Mountain Jade. They offer daily tours that include a piece of New Zealand pounamu to take home. Tickets cost $35 for children and adults.

Check out the Rotorua Night Market

The Rotorua Night Market is a weekly outdoor market that takes place every Thursday night. It offers a wide range of food, drinks, and artisanal products for sale.

The market is located in the heart of the city center and features over 60 stalls selling everything from street food to handmade crafts. You can sample a variety of international cuisines, as well as classic New Zealand favorites like fish and chips and meat pies.

In addition to the food, the market also features live music and entertainment. There are performances from local musicians and street performers, as well as interactive art installations and activities for children.

Eat Streat food court

Eat Streat food court is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after a full day of exploring the best things to do in Rotorua.

The restaurants and cafes in Eat Streat offer a wide range of international cuisines, including Italian, Japanese, Indian, and Thai. There are also several bars and pubs with craft beer and cocktails for a post-dinner drink.

Eat Streat’s overhead canopy provides shelter from the elements, making it a convenient place to have dinner when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Bucket list Rotorua activities

Go Zorbing

What is Zorbing, you may ask? It’s basically rolling down a hill inside a giant inflatable plastic ball — very hamster-like if you ask me.

Rotorua is the only place in New Zealand where you can participate in this weird activity!

ZORB Rotorua offers three different track options, including the straight track, the zig-zag track, and the drop track. You can also choose between a normal ride and a wet ride, where they fill your ball with warm water (kind of like a slip ‘n slide).

Zipline through Rotorua Forest

Cruising down a zipline (or flying fox) through native forest is both an exhilarating and a surprisingly peaceful activity.

You’ll fly over the forest canopy, switch between several zipline cables, and cross a few hanging swing bridges. The guides also teach you about how the company is protecting the country’s local flora and fauna!

Rotorua Canopy Tours offers two different tours to choose from. The Original 3-hour Canopy Tour is 600 m (0.4 mi) long, while the Ultimate 3.5-hour Canopy Tour is double the length at 1,200 m (0.8 mi) long!

Raft the Kaituna River…

Rafting the Kaituna River is one of the most thrilling adventures you can have in Rotorua. The Kaituna River is famous for Tutea Falls, which at 7 m (23 ft) high, is the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world!

One of the main differences between normal rafting and white water rafting is the level of difficulty. White water rafting is considered a more challenging activity that requires a higher level of skill and physical fitness. Normal rafting, on the other hand, is more relaxed and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

For the most part, rafting the Kaituna River is an example of white water rafting. You’ll need to navigate through challenging rapids, waves, and waterfalls. It’s both thrilling and physically demanding, since you need to paddle, maneuver the raft, and work together as a team.

…or try white water sledging

If white water rafting is a bit too intense for you, try white water sledging instead!

White water sledging, also known as riverboarding, is when you maneuver through rapids while lying on a super buoyant sled. It’s typically less strenuous than white water rafting and can be more manageable for water sport beginners.

The tour below takes you down the Kaituna River and through the Kahikatea Forest, and there’s a big emphasis on enjoying the native scenery around you.

Take a scenic flight

Taking a scenic flight is one of the most epic things to do in New Zealand as a whole, and Rotorua in particular is an awesome place to do it!

Volcanic Air is a local tourism company that offers both helicopter and floatplane flights. You’ll soar around the region, getting the most unbelievable views of Rotorua’s geothermal valleys, craters, and lakes.

There are a few different flight packages to choose from. Some even include landing on Mount Tarawara, a volcano with a scenic lake and hot springs!

Head to Velocity Valley

Want to experience some real adrenaline-pumping action? Velocity Valley is an adventure park with heaps of different activities to get your heart racing.

In their Agroventures theme park, you can choose from a high-powered jet boat, a zero-gravity freefall, or a “Shweeb Race” (a suspended monorail line). Of course, there’s also the classic 43 m (141 ft) high bungee jump.

Skyline Rotorua

Like the Skyline Gondola in Queenstown, Skyline Rotorua offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

The main attraction is the gondola ride, which takes you on a scenic journey to the top of Mount Ngongotaha. At the top, there are a variety of adrenaline-packed activities to participate in, like the Skyline Luge and the Sky Swing.

Other activities at Skyline Rotorua include ziplining, mountain biking, and hiking.

Things to do in Rotorua: Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland

Best day trips from Rotorua

Hobbiton

Taking a guided tour of Hobbiton in Matamata is one of the best things to do when visiting New Zealand’s North Island.

The Hobbiton set includes 44 hobbit holes, a tavern, a mill, and the famous party tree featured in the Lord of the Rings films. It’s all located on a gorgeous 1,250 acre sheep farm in the rolling hills of the Waikato region.

This is such a fantastic activity for all ages, even if you haven’t seen a single LOTR film. (Fun fact: About 30% of visitors to Hobbiton haven’t!)

To get to Hobbiton from Rotorua, you can either take a half-day tour from Rotorua (includes transportation to and from) or drive yourself. The drive takes about 1 hour each way.

Make sure to book your Hobbiton tour in advance — they do sell out!

Taupo

Located just an hour’s drive south of Rotorua, Taupo is an excellent place to visit on a day trip.

There are tons of things to do in Taupo, like visiting the powerful Huka Falls, soaking in geothermal hot springs, or taking a boat tour to see the impressive Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay.

You can also hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the most spectacular day hikes in the country.

Tauranga

Tauranga is a lovely coastal city in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region that’s known for its stunning beaches and variety of outdoor activities. It’s located just 1 hour north of Rotorua by car.

In Tauranga, you can hike up to the summit of Mount Maunganui, swim with dolphins, explore McLaren Falls Park, and take a harbour sightseeing cruise.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can even opt for a skydive over Mount Maunganui!

Whakatane

Whakatane is a small but charming town on the Pacific Ocean that’s known for its its beautiful beaches and rich Maori culture. The town is a 1 hour and 15 minute drive away from Rotorua.

There, you can lounge on Ohope Beach, take a hike in the Ohiwa Harbour, or visit the Whakatane Kiwi Trust, a conservation organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the kiwi population.

One of the most popular things to do in Whakatane is take a scenic flight over White Island. You’ll get impressive views of the island’s volcanic landscapes and coastline. (If you’re interested in learning about the volcano’s 2018 euroption, The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari is an excellent documentary on Netflix!)

Blue Spring

The Blue Spring is a stunning natural attraction located in the town of Putaruru, about a 40-minute drive from Rotorua.

To reach the spring, you’ll need to walk the Te Waihou Walkway, a popular hiking trail that winds through lush native bush and along the banks of the Waihou River.

The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with several viewing platforms and picnic areas along the way. The walk to the Blue Spring is about 4.7 km (2.9 mi) each way and takes about 1.5-2 hours to complete.

Rotorua FAQ

How long should I spend in Rotorua?

To experience a few of Rotorua’s main tourist attractions and activities, I’d recommend spending at least two to three days in the city. This gives you enough time to explore the geothermal wonders, immerse yourself in Maori history and culture, try adventure activities, and relax in the natural hot springs.

If you have more time, though, you’ll be able to discover some hidden gems, like Rainbow Springs Nature Park, Hamurana Springs, the National Kiwi Hatchery, and various hiking and mountain biking trails.

How do I spend a day in Rotorua?

If you only have one day in Rotorua, you can still experience a few of the city’s top attractions!

Start your day by visiting Te Puia, where you can see geysers and learn about Maori culture. Next, head south to Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland to admire the colorful pools and unique rock formations.

In the afternoon, you can either try some adventure activities or relax at one of the many hot springs. End your day with a Maori cultural performance and a traditional hangi feast.

What is Rotorua known for?

Rotorua is known for its geothermal wonders, such as geysers, hot springs, volcanic craters, and mud pools. These are the result of the city’s location in the Taupo Volcanic Zone, a geothermal area in New Zealand’s North Island. Because of this, the city is also a renowned spa destination!

The city is also famous for its rich Maori culture. If you plan a visit to one of the living villages, you can learn about traditions, arts, and attend cultural performances.

Like Queenstown on the South Island, Rotorua also offers a wide range of adventure activities, such as ziplining, luging, and white water rafting.

Do I need a car in Rotorua?

Although having a car in Rotorua is definitely the most convenient option for getting around, it’s not totally essential.

The city has a relatively decent public transport system, including buses and shuttles, which connect the main attractions and accommodation areas. Rotorua is also New Zealand’s number one cycling destination — you’ll find dedicated bike lanes and cycle friendly areas throughout the city.

If you book a guided tour to popular sites like geothermal parks and Maori villages, many tour operators will offer transportation from the city center. Some activities, such as Skyline Gondola and the Polynesian Spa, provide their own transport to and from the venue.

Niki at Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, North Island New Zealand
Devil’s Bath, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Where to stay in Rotorua

There’s so much to do in Rotorua, so you’ll definitely want to find accommodation that’s close to all of the major attractions. Although the city is pretty compact and walkable, I’d recommend staying nearing the lake for the most comfortable experience.

Budget | Rock Solid Backpackers — Part hostel, part climbing gym, Rock Solid Backpackers is a budget-friendly option in Rotorua’s city center. It’s located within walking distance of a lot of must-do activities, like Eat Streat, Suphur Point, and the Polynesian Spa.

Mid-range | Capri on Fenton — With a private hot tub and a stellar location near town, Capri on Fenton is a great choice for couples and families looking for a comfortable stay. Some apartments include a full kitchen as well, helping you travel New Zealand on a budget.

Bougie | On the Point – Lake Rotorua — On the Point is about as luxurious as you can get in Rotorua. Spacious rooms, spa tubs, and fine dining in their on-site restaurant will make your stay super memorable. Plus, you get views over Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island!

Book a hotel in Rotorua

How to get to Rotorua

By car

Rotorua is centrally located, making it really accessible to reach from elsewhere on the North Island. You’re never more than an hour or two away from the beach or another interesting city, which also makes Rotorua a great place to base yourself when exploring the surrounding area.

Driving times from:

  • Auckland: 3 hours
  • Hamilton: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Waitomo Glowworm Caves: 2 hours
  • Wellington: 6 hours 30 minutes

By plane

Air New Zealand offers nonstop flights to Rotorua Regional Airport (ROT) from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. From those cities, you can then connect on to other cities in New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.

The airport is located on the eastern side of Lake Rotorua, the second largest lake on New Zealand’s North Island. To get to the city from the airport, you can either take a taxi, bus (Bay Bus Route 10), or airport shuttle.

Book a flight to Rotorua

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Thanks for reading this guide to the best things to do in Rotorua!

xoxo Niki

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