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Things To Do In Rotorua

Rotorua is literally packed with amazing attractions, activities and incredible things to do! With adrenaline pumping activities and stunning natural attractions, Rotorua is an amazing place to visit. Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal activity and Maori culture with hot springs, boiling mud pools, spouting geysers, warm geothermal springs a... Show More

Tourist Information About Rotorua

Top Attractions

MOUNT TARAWERA / ORAKEI KORAKO 'THERMAL EXPLORER' DUAL LANDING - 5A

MOUNT TARAWERA / ORAK...

From above Mount Tarawera impressive views include vast volcanic rifts, distant ......

Cultural Performance

Cultural Performance

Take a glimpse into our world of performing arts while partaking in one of our d ......

Rotorua Canopy Tours Ziplining Forest Adventure

Rotorua Canopy Tours ...

Voted TripAdvisor’s #1 Nature Activity on the planet, Rotorua Canopy Tours is ......

Buried Village Experience

Buried Village Experi...

Stories of survival and resilience are told throughout our museum exhibits and i ......

Rotorua Jade Carving Studio Tour

Activity LocationRotorua

Step inside our Rotorua Jade Carving Studio for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes experience. Meet local artists, see live ...

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NZ $35.00 Book Now

MOUNT TARAWERA VOLCANIC ADVENTURE - 3C

Activity LocationRotorua

Combine the thrill of landing on Mount Tarawera with a flight that includes spectacular aerial views of our stunning cr ...

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NZ $795.00 Book Now

WHITE ISLAND/ MOUNT TARAWERA 'VOLCANIC EXTREMES' HELICOPTER - 4D

Activity LocationRotorua

Experience “Volcanic Extremes” flying over the active crater of “Whakaari” White Island before landing on the n ...

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NZ $1610.00 Book Now

Geothermal Trails

Activity LocationRotorua

Geothermal Trails

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NZ $35.00 Book Now

MOUNT TARAWERA/WAIMANGU THERMAL VALLEY – ‘ERUPTION TRAIL TOUR’ – 3A

Activity LocationRotorua

Departing our City Lakefront pier experience the thrill of a floatplane take off, before climbing above Mokoia Island on ...

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NZ $310.00 Book Now

FLOATPLANE CRATER LAKES FLIGHT PLUS HOTPOOLS– 2AH

Activity LocationRotorua

Enjoy spectacular views of our hidden lakes district, distant volcanoes and local geothermal activity. Landing on the la ...

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NZ $410.00 Book Now

MOUNT TARAWERA / ORAKEI KORAKO 'THERMAL EXPLORER' DUAL LANDING FLOATPLANE - 5B

Activity LocationRotorua

Combine the thrill of landing on Mount Tarawera with a flight that includes spectacular aerial views of our stunning cra ...

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NZ $1205.00 Book Now

Kaituna River Rafting

Activity LocationRotorua

Join the Original Kaituna Rafting Company for an unbeatable grade 5 white-water experience on one of New Zealand's most ...

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NZ $125.00 Book Now

MOUNT TARAWERA/WAIMANGU VOLCANIC VALLEY PLUS HOTPOOLS– 3AH

Activity LocationRotorua

Fly over the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory, Mount Tarawera, and gain an appreciation of ...

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NZ $515.00 Book Now

Raceline Karting

Activity LocationRotorua

Feel the need for speed as you jump into the driver’s seat for an exhilarating Raceline Karting experience. Geared up ...

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NZ $75.00 Book Now

Tongariro Alpine Crossing Transport Ketetahi Shuttle

Activity LocationMt Ruapehu & Tongariro

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the best one-day trek in New Zealand. It is 19.4 km (12 mile) through volcanic alpine ...

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NZ $55.00 Book Now

100% Pure NZ - Raft the Kaituna River - Grade 5

Activity LocationRotorua

We’re passionate about continually providing world-class adventure tourism products in Rotorua. Infused with a unique ...

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NZ $119.00 Book Now

Sledge the Kaituna River - Grade 3

Activity LocationRotorua

We’re passionate about continually providing world-class adventure tourism products in Rotorua. Infused with a unique ...

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NZ $119.00 Book Now

The Farm Tour

Activity LocationRotorua

The Farm Tour is an hour long guided tour, travelling through a farm environment on a covered trailer. During The Farm ...

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NZ $48 Book Now

Iconic Guided Tour

Activity LocationRotorua

Explore an authentic living Māori village where people live on a daily basis, using natural geothermal resources to coo ...

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NZ $45.00 Book Now

TARAWERA FALLS VOLCANIC HELI HIKE - 6D

Activity LocationRotorua

From lofty volcanic heights, to a magical waterfall, this extraordinary day out showcases a variety of scenery not found ...

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NZ $980.00 Book Now

Scenic Lake Rotoiti Kayak Tour - Rotorua

Activity LocationRotorua

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with our Scenic Lake Rotoiti Day tour, granting you access to one of New Zealand's ...

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NZ $145.00 Book Now

Epic Tandem Kayak Tours

Activity LocationRotorua

Tandem kayaking is a niche/specialty activity compared to traditional rafting trips in the area. There is nowhere else i ...

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NZ $249.00 Book Now

3D Trick Art Gallery

Activity LocationRotorua

Immerse yourself into 2D paintings posing and acting, when you take a photo it changes to 3D photos.

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NZ $22 Book Now

Starlight Gourmet Kayak Tour - Rotorua

Activity LocationRotorua

Glide across the lake to the stunning Manupirua Hot Pools, which are only accessible by water. Here you will enjoy a fre ...

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NZ $265.00 Book Now

MOUNT TARAWERA VOLCANIC LANDING - ERUPTION TRAIL TOUR AND LANDING - 3B

Activity LocationRotorua

Fly to and land on the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory. Standing on Mount Tarawera offers ...

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NZ $535.00 Book Now

Action Bug

Activity LocationRotorua

Riverbugs mixed with generous portions of whitewater in a breathtaking gorge on the Rangitāiki river in the Eastern Bay ...

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NZ $189 Book Now

WHITE ISLAND/ MOUNT TARAWERA 'VOLCANIC EXTREMES' FLOATPLANE ADVENTURE - 4A

Activity LocationRotorua

Fly over New Zealand’s only permanently active offshore volcano, White Island and enjoy amazing aerial views of the is ...

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NZ $875.00 Book Now

The Hells Gate Experience

Activity LocationRotorua

Hell's Gate is the most active geothermal reserve in New Zealand and home to its only mud spa. Due to the composition of ...

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NZ $105.00 Book Now

Mount Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Hike

Activity LocationRotorua

We’re passionate about continually providing world-class adventure tourism products in Rotorua. Infused with a unique ...

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NZ $119.00 Book Now

Tourist Information About Rotorua

Rotorua is literally packed with amazing attractions, activities and incredible things to do! With adrenaline pumping activities and stunning natural attractions, Rotorua is an amazing place to visit. Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal activity and Maori culture with hot springs, boiling mud pools, spouting geysers, warm geothermal springs and silica terraces explore. Rotorua’s geothermal activity is one of NZ’s top attractions, but Rotorua is filled with plenty of other excellent activities and things to do. Visit Mitai or Tamaki Maori villages, Explore Wai-o-tapu Thermal Valley, experience Maori culture at Te Puia and visit Hell's Gate for a natural mud bath! There are beautiful thermal spa facilities, healing mineral pools, rejuvinating spa therapies and even soaking in a thermal stream or pool lined with natural bush.


Other activities and things to do in Rotorua are river rafting, jet boating, fly-fishing, Rotorua Luge, and wildlife parks for the kids. There are fun things like Mountain biking in Rotorua’s Redwood Forest, experience the excitement and exhilaration of a Jet Boat Tour on Lake Rotorua, or guided fly-fishing trips and exhilarating activities such as rafting the mighty Kaituna River with its 7m waterfall, an amphibious sightseeing and history tour on a paddle steamer. There is the Zorb and Agrodome agricultural show and many wildlife parks for the kids. Rotorua is rich in Maori culture and is home to the ‘Te Arawa’ people that settled here some 600 years ago who offer the visitor the opportunity to experience authentic traditional Maori villages, such as the Buried Village, Whakarewarewa, Mitai and Tamaki Maori Village. There are attractions offering the experience an evening cultural show where stories of myths and legends are told through dance, song and storytelling along with a tasty ‘hangi feast’ where the food is cooked in the steaming ground.


Best Attractions and things to do in Rotorua



Hells Gate Geothermal attraction

1. Hells Gate Geothermal attraction

One of the best things to do in Rotorua is to visit Hells Gate. Steeped In Māori Myth And Legend, this Is New Zealand's Most Unique Geothermal attraction. If you want to experience bubbling mud, then Hell’s Gate is a great activity for all the family. Hell's Gate, Rotorua, Is New Zealand's Most Active Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa where you watch the geothermal wonders or bubbling mud and other geothermal features and you can also relax in a mud spa bath to rejuvenate your skin. There are also options to try a Hangi – a traditional Maori meal.

 
Raft the mighty Kaituna River!

2. Raft the mighty Kaituna River!

For adventure seekers in Rotorua this is an amazing activity being the largest commercially rafting waterfall in the world! Journeying through native bush, over 14 awesome rapids and 3 waterfalls including world-renowned 7 meter Tutea Falls. This attraction includes a Kiwi guide, is blended with touches of Maori culture and includes both white water rafting is also a suitable thing to do for first timers.

 
Rotorua Canopy Tours Ziplining Forest Adventure

3. Rotorua Canopy Tours Ziplining Forest Adventure

For an extra fun activity through a stunning New Zealand native bush attraction, try ziplining in Rotorua! Journey deep into ancient native forest in small groups, of up to 10 people. Experience New Zealand like it once was from the top of the forest canopy. There are kiwi guides that are highly trained to keep you safe, make you smile, teach you amazing things and create memories that last you a lifetime. Perfect thing to do for all ages over 6 years old

 
Cycling and Mountain Biking

4. Cycling and Mountain Biking

Rotorua is a world-famous for mountain biking making this one of the best activities here with world-renowned networks of mountain bike trails. Whakarewarewa Forest, aka “the Redwoods Forest” is a fantastic attraction and contains nearly 200 kilometres of expertly built trails making this a fantastic thing to do being crafted to suit everyone, from absolute beginners through to extreme downhill competitors, and for any age and fitness level. Other top destinations for mountain bikers are Rainbow Mountain, Moerangi Track, Western Okataina Walkway, the Timber Trail and Whirinaki Forest Trails. If you’re a cycling enthusiast, riding Te Ara Ahi Thermal by Bike is a great option and it takes you past geothermal areas, beautiful lakes and forests, and significant historical and cultural sites.

 
Hike Mount Tarawera

5. Hike Mount Tarawera

Take an amazing walk on Mt Tarawera. Mt Tarawera in Rotorua famously had a huge eruption in 1886, destroying the legendary Pink and White Terraces and the villages and landscape around it. Walking on this vibrant red volcano with Guided Volcanic Crater Hike is a great way to embrace the landscape and history of this place and is an awesome short alternative to the landscape you would experience on the Tongariro Crossing. This fully guided walking experience shows the unique landscape and history of the area with unmatched scenic vistas and 360 panoramic views. This activity is ideal for all ages

 
Scenic Cruise on Lake Rotorua

6. Scenic Cruise on Lake Rotorua

A relaxing and peaceful thing to do is to take the Lakeland Queen heritage styled vessel that operates on the beautiful Lake Rotorua. It is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and the gentle pace of its paddle provides a relaxing cruise, perfect for exploring the areas geothermal features, natural wonders and stunning views. There are breakfast, lunch and dinner options as well as coffee and wine cruises. For bookings click on the Scenic Cruise on Lake Rotorua trip below.

 
River sledging!

7. River sledging!

The most exhilarating white water activity with Rotorua's original Sledging Company. This activity is the most intimate way to experience the Kaituna River. Based on the Okere section of the Kaituna River this mixes the amazing scenery of the river with a Grade 5, 14 Rapids, 3 waterfall rafting experience – including the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, the 7m Tutea Falls. This white water sledging activity has a minimum age of 13 years and takes around 3 hours 30 minutes. There is something for everyone on this excursion. Beautiful Native Scenery attractions, play holes and awesome rapids

 


Free Attractions and Things to do in Rotorua



Redwoods Forest

1. Redwoods Forest

The Redwood Forest is an excellent attraction with many things to do including walking, running and mountain biking. The stunning scenery provides the most amazing backdrop for family photos and selfies. A great option for places to visit in Rotorua if you don’t have a car as you can take a city bus there. A fun thing to do is to go at night to see the light displays in the trees.

 
Fishing Activities

2. Fishing Activities

Fishing is an excellent thing to do in Rotorua as the Rotorua Lakes District is known as a fisher’s paradise attraction for anyone keen to fish for a prize rainbow or brown trout from one of 13 fishable lakes, and several rivers and streams. Some of the biggest wild fresh fish can be found in Rotorua's streams and rivers.

 
Play Golf in Rotorua

3. Play Golf in Rotorua

Take advantage of the great range of golf course attractions in and around Rotorua that suit all levels. The Rotorua Golf Club is ranked as one of the top courses in the North Island. Springfield golf club is set in park-like surroundings with many tree-lined fairways and strategically placed greens. Lakeview Golf Club with its stunning views over Lake Rotorua make it a pleasure to play and Rotorua’s Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is the first of its kind in New Zealand offering a unique environment where golf and the natural habitat work in harmony.

 
Government Gardens

4. Government Gardens

Government Gardens is one of Rotorua’s historic landmarks and one of Rotorua’s top tourism destinations. This is a stunning attraction is situated along the edge of Lake Rotorua and just minutes from the city center. A walk through Government Gardens takes you to see many free attractions including ancient bubbling geothermal pools, sculptures, traditional and modern Māori-inspired art, and beautifully manicured grounds for lots of fun activities such as bowls, croquet, petanque and golf. There are some historically significant buildings here including a Tudor-Style Bath House, built onsite and opened in 1908 which now houses the Rotorua Museum and Art Gallery, The Blue Baths with ornate Mediterranean-style public swimming house which was the first of its kind in the world to allow both men and women bathe in the same pool. Also there is the Klamath Falls Rose Gardens where roses are in bloom from mid-November to June, Te Runanga Tea Rooms built in 1903 as a tea pavilion, a band rotunda built in 1900 and various other buildings of historic interest.

 
Centennial Park

5. Centennial Park

Centennial Park offers 20 beautiful, grassy, tree-dotted hectares of rolling hills and deep gullies. A top attraction here is the Peace Memorial and Maple Grove where in early spring, thousands of native tui flock here when the trees are in flower. Sheep are the eco-friendly grounds keepers here, so be sure to close any gates you go through.

 
Kuirau Geothermal Public Park

6. Kuirau Geothermal Public Park

Check out the natural boiling, bubbling and steaming geothermal action throughout Kuirau Park, New Zealand’s only geothermal public park. It's free to visit and located within an easy walk from the city center, just off Pukuatua and Ranolf streets. There are lots of attractions and things to do here with several walkways through Kuirau Park to see the crater lake, mud pools, hot springs, and a free thermal foot bath, all set in a beautifully manicured setting dotted with flower beds and native flora.

 
Visit Boyes Beach and Park

7. Visit Boyes Beach and Park

One of the largest beaches on Rotorua’s neighboring Lake Ōkareka and a great attraction during the warmer months. There are heaps of things to do here including swimming, fishing and picnicking. There is a picnic area with barbecues, children's playground. A fun thing to do is to take the walkway which passes two local jumping rocks.

 
Hemo Gorge Trail - Te Ara Ahi

8. Hemo Gorge Trail - Te Ara Ahi

Hemo Gorge Trail is a two-way, Grade 2 shared trail for cyclists and walkers that is part of the Te Ara Ahi cycleway and continues to Rainbow Mountain. There are seats along the way offering spots to rest and take in the environment. The trail is 1.5km from the Te Puia carpark to the Waipa car park

 
Hike to Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokakahi

9. Hike to Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokakahi

A great activity for hikers is to hike to view both of these beautiful lakes. This hiking track starts near Redwood Forest and at the hike’s highest point, you will be able to see both lakes and witness their clear blue and green watercolor difference in shade. Location: 9km (6 miles) southeast of Rotorua, along Te Ngae Road then along Tarawera Road at the roundabout.

 
Wai-O-Tapu Boardwalk

10. Wai-O-Tapu Boardwalk

This is a great free attraction for the family being a short track along the “Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland '' Located near Rainbow Mountain, this is the ideal shortstop between Rotorua and Taupo. The platform elevates above the mud pool to offer another perspective of a pool of bubbling mud and lots of geothermal steam!

 


Top attractions in Rotorua



Sledge the Kaituna River - This thrilling activity is perfect for kids who love adventure! They'll feel the rush of the rapids as they navigate the Kaituna River on a sledge, guided by experienced instructors.

Hells Gate - Experience the natural healing powers of the mud at Hells Gate geothermal reserve by enjoying the hot pools, mud baths, and geysers while learning about the area's volcanic history.

Scenic Cruise on Lake Rotorua - Take your friends and family on a scenic cruise on beautiful Lake Rotorua, where they'll see stunning views of the surrounding geothermal landscape and maybe even spot some of the lake's resident wildlife.

3D Trick Art Gallery - You will be amazed by the optical illusions and 3D artworks in this unique gallery. Take pictures and participate in interactive exhibits and immerse yourself in a large maze.

Mount Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Hike - Go on a guided hike through the volcanic craters of Mount Tarawera, where you’ll see the stunning geothermal activity and learn about the area's rich Maori history.



Top fun activities in Rotorua



The Farm Tour - Experience the best of New Zealand farming with a guided tour of a working farm in Rotorua, where you'll get up close and personal with sheep, cows, and other farm animals, and learn about the local farming industry.

100% Pure NZ - Raft the Kaituna River - Get an adrenaline rush as you navigate the rapids of the Kaituna River on a guided rafting tour, with stunning scenery and the opportunity to see native New Zealand wildlife.

Sledge the Kaituna River - Take on the rapids of the Kaituna River on a guided sledge tour, with experienced instructors leading the way and providing an exhilarating experience.

The Hells Gate Experience - Take a journey through one of New Zealand's most active geothermal areas and discover the natural healing powers of the mud and hot pools at the Hells Gate geothermal reserve.

Scenic Cruise on Lake Rotorua - Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the beautiful Lake Rotorua, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding geothermal landscape and possibly spotting some of the lake's resident wildlife.



Best things to do with kids and childrens activities in Rotorua



The Farm Tour: Take your kids on a journey through a working farm and see first-hand how the farmers care for the animals. Meet and feed the friendly farm animals and learn about the farming process.

3D Trick Art Gallery - The kids will be amazed by the optical illusions and 3D artworks in this unique gallery, they will love to take pictures and participate in interactive exhibits.

Sledge the Kaituna River: This is an exciting and unique activity that the whole family can enjoy. Experience the thrill of white-water sledge and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Kaituna River.

The Hells Gate Experience: Take a guided tour of the geothermal park and see the unique geothermal activity up close. Learn about the history of the area and the Maori culture. Kids will learn a lot from this activity and create long-lasting memories.

Scenic Cruise on Lake Rotorua: Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Rotorua with your family and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. See the geysers and hot pools from the water and learn about the history of the lake



Best day trips from Rotorua



Sledge the Kaituna River: This thrilling adventure takes you on a high-speed ride down the Kaituna River, where you'll experience the rush of the rapids and take in the stunning scenery of the New Zealand wilderness. It's perfect for adrenaline seekers who love to get a little wet.

100% Pure NZ - Raft the Kaituna River: This adventure takes you on a guided rafting tour down the Kaituna River, where you'll experience the thrill of the rapids and take in the beautiful New Zealand wilderness. This is a great option for families and kids who want to experience the thrill of the river in a safe and guided environment.

Scenic Cruise on Lake Rotorua: This relaxing and peaceful cruise takes you on a journey across the beautiful Lake Rotorua, where you'll see the stunning scenery and take in the natural beauty of the area. It's perfect for families and kids who want to relax and enjoy the peacefulness of the lake.

Mount Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Hike: This guided hike takes you to the summit of Mount Tarawera, where you'll be able to see the beautiful crater of the volcano and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. This is a great option for families and kids who want to experience the natural beauty of the area and learn about the history of the volcano.



Best things to do near Rotorua



V8 Trike Tours Bay of Islands: This is a unique and thrilling experience on a V8 Chevrolet trike exploring the beautiful Bay of Plenty! Designed and built in New Zealand, these trikes are powered by 5700cc Chevrolet motors. It’s the ultimate in power and excitement!

Kaituna River Rafting: Join the Original Kaituna Rafting Company for an unbeatable grade 5 white-water experience on one of New Zealand's most exciting and beautiful rivers! Enjoy the thrills and spills of the mighty Kaituna River as you take on the world famous 7 meter Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall!

Evening Glowworm Kayayak tour: Start your incredible evening Glowworm Tour at Waimarino alongside the Wairoa River. Enjoy delicious refreshments while watching the sun set over the rolling hills. At twilight, guides will lead you into the calm waters to discover the magic of the enchanting Glowworm canyon.

Skydive: Start your memorable adventure with a 25-minute scenic flight with breathtaking views of Mount Maunganui and golden beaches expanding as far as the eye can see. Higher up, you'll see White Island, Mount Ruapehu, the Rotorua Lakes, The Coromandel and even Mount Taranaki. And if you still had some breath left after that, freefalling back towards Tauranga at 200km/h on a tandem skydive might help take it away for good!

Morning Glory: 3 Hour Chilled out Sail: This is a relaxing and scenic sail along the coast of the Coromandel. You'll enjoy the beautiful views of the coast and the sea, and have a chance to spot dolphins and other marine life