50 Awesome Tourist Attractions to Visit and Things to Do in Rotorua

April 10, 2023 Mustafa Natalwala 1442 Views

Rotorua is a city in the Bay of Plenty region on the North Island of New Zealand. The city sits on the shore of Lake Rotorua and is surrounded by Volcanic mountains, hills, and geothermal valleys.

Some of the most fun things to do in Rotorua, New Zealand include exploring the Maori history & culture, thrilling with adventure sports; exploring the surrounding lakes, geothermal valleys, mountains, forests, & valleys; and most importantly bathing your worries away with Polynesian spa in natural hot springs & mud pools.

The city is surrounded by several historically and culturally significant sites that belong to different Maori tribes. The best places to visit in Rotorua to explore the Maori culture are the living villages. Here you can see traditional attires, traditions, practices, dance, lifestyle, equipment, weapons, and more. These Rotorua tourist attractions not only let you see but truly experience the Maori culture with participatory activities. You can also dine on traditionally prepared Hangi dishes while enjoying dance, music, and theatrical performances at these cultural villages when you visit Rotorua.

Another major facade of Rotorua travel includes exploring the wonders of nature in the surrounding mountains and hills. With Rotorua sightseeing, you will get to see endless volcanic peaks, beautiful lakes, multicolored pools, geysers, sulphuric waters, rock formations, glowing caves, streams, boiling mud pools, and more. These are the most beautiful things to see in Rotorua.

The geothermal features make for natural hot springs and have given rise to a variety of Polynesian spa centre around the city. At these Rotorua attractions, you can bathe in naturally heated water and mud pools that are rich in minerals to rejuvenate your senses. There are also several places to go in Rotorua where you can enjoy natural springs without human intervention.

Finally, one of the most attractive aspects of the Rotorua trip is the adventure sports and nature explorations. You can explore the forests and volcanic valleys through hiking, trekking, camping, mountain biking, and helicopter tours.

You can explore the lakes, streams, waterfalls, and glowing caves with boat cruises, kayaking, river rafting, and sledging. Aside from these, there are numerous outdoor activities to do in Rotorua. We have listed them in the sections below and explained where you can enjoy these activities. Read on to find the best things to do and places to see in Rotorua, New Zealand.

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Table of Contents

Top 50 Tourist Places to Visit in Rotorua, New Zealand

1. Mitai Maori Village

You can experience the ancient Maori culture in this village. You will learn about their lifestyle, culture, beliefs, festivals, food, traditions, history, and more. You can see their houses, sculptures, artworks, weapons, canoes, and various tools.

This is also among the best places to visit in Rotorua to enjoy traditional Maori music & dance performances while dining on Hangi cuisine and participating in cooking it.

The tour also includes bush-walking through the forest and a canoe ride in the streams to see glowworms. It is one of the best things to do in Rotorua at night. You will need 2 to 3 hours to experience Mitai Maori Village.

I suggest you should book a Mitai Maori Village Cultural Experience Tour in advance.

2. Te Puia Springs

These springs are best known for the majestic Pohutu Geyser that bursts out about 20 times a day. It is one of the most magnificent things to see in Rotorua, New Zealand.

There are also several geothermal spots at Te Puia Springs including smaller geysers, ponds, mud pots, silica formations, and more. This 70-hectare area is also home to several other historical and cultural Rotorua tourist attractions.

You will see ancient Maori architecture, cultural centres for arts & crafts, the ancient fortified village, and more. The Te Puia Springs is also well known for one the coolest things to do in Rotorua at night: The Geyser by Night Tour.

You can see the multi-coloured geysers erupting under the night sky. It is one of the most unique sights you will come across during Rotorua travel. You will need 3 to 4 hours to tour this entire area.

I suggest you should book a Tour of Geyser by Night Experience at Te Puia in advance.

3. Whakarewarewa – The Living Maori Village

This village is home to the Tuhourangi and Ngati Wahiao people. It is the country’s oldest continuous Maori Tourism Experience. The village shows how the Maori traditions use the elements of their geothermal environment to support their lifestyle. It is one of the most interesting Rotorua attractions.

You can see their villages, tattoo traditions, dance, music, communal bathing, and even food cooked in geothermal pools. You will need about an hour to explore the Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village.

I suggest you should book a Guided Tour of Whakarewarewa Village in advance.

4. Mountain Biking in Whakarewarewa Forest Park

The Whakarewarewa Forest Park has 200 km of trails for mountain biking and it is one of the most popular outdoor activities to do in Rotorua for adventure seekers. You will cycle through forests, geothermal terrains, ravines, valleys, grasslands, and more. You can also go for short trails if you are not up for the 200 km challenge. These trails also take you to the Living Maori Village and other historical and cultural places to see in Rotorua. People often dedicate the entire day to this activity and exploring attractions along the trail.

I suggest you should book a Half Day Biking Tour at Whakarewarewa Forest Park in advance.

5. Redwood Forest Trail in Whakarewarewa Forest Park

This forest is spread over 55,000 hectares and is famous for its 700-meter-long trail with 22 suspension bridges. This trail is filled with fun things to do in Rotorua. The forest is dominated by Californian Redwood Trees, hence the name. The hiking trail takes you through forests, streams, geothermal pools, and more. The Redwoods Altitude trail takes you a little higher on the trees so you can look at the forest from above. You will walk hanging bridges, glide on ziplines, and climb trees to reach lookout points. The forest also has an amazing mountain biking trail. You can easily spend 3 to 4 hours exploring the activities in this forest.

6. Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

This is the most colourful geothermal location in New Zealand. Years of volcanic activity have sculpted this zone into a landscape that looks like an amusement park. You will see thermal pools and rock formations in various different bright colours. You will also see coloured sulphuric mud pools and spewing geysers. It is home to some of the best Rotorua sightseeing spots such as Knox Geyser, Champagne Pool, and Devil’s Hot Tub. You will need 2 hours to tour this place when you visit Rotorua.

7. Waimangu Volcanic Valley

This volcanic valley is home to some incredibly beautiful natural sights. It has the Frying Pan Lake, the largest hot spring in the world. This shimmering blue lake is surrounded by lush green mountains and covered in fog. It looks quite heavenly.

You will also see blue and green sulphuric pools around the Inferno Crater in this valley. The valley is also one of the best places to visit in Rotorua for hiking. You can hike through forests and mountains exploring the natural sights of geothermal activity. People can also enjoy kayaking and boat cruises on Lake Rotomahana. You need at least 3 hours to explore the Waimangu Valley when you visit Rotorua.

I suggest you should book a Self Guided Walking and Hiking Tour of the Volcanic Valley at Waimangu in advance.

8. Agrodome

This 350-acre farm offers a variety of farming experiences that lets you peek into the pastoral life in New Zealand. The farm has several outdoor and indoor activities to do in Rotorua focusing on farming, cattle rearing, and animal husbandry. You can milk a cow, feed lambs, sow seeds, shear a sheep, pick fruits from trees, ride a wagon pulled by horses, and operate some of the farming equipment. You need about 2 hours from Rotorua travel to experience the Agrodome.

I suggest you should book an Agrodome Farm Experience in advance.

9. Polynesian Spa

The geothermal landscape around Rotorua has created some amazing natural therapy spots. You can enjoy bathing in hot springs, and mineral-rich geothermal pools, and enjoy rejuvenating mud baths. You can experience these treatments at natural springs in Kerosene Creek, Wai o Tapu, Kuirau Park, Te Rata Bay, Waikite Valley, Lake Rotowhero, Manupirua Hot Spring, Hell’s Gate, Waitangi Soda Springs, Wairua Stream, and many more.

You can also enjoy luxury spa retreats around Lake Rotorua with a variety of special spa treatments for skin, muscles, and general well-being. It is a good idea to take a break to chill as the majority of Rotorua sightseeing involves physical activity. You need at least an hour to relax at a Polynesian spa experience.

I suggest you should book a Thermal Path Tour in Rotorua in advance.

10. Te Pa Tu Maori Cultural Experience

This place offers a cultural dining experience and is one of the most popular Rotorua tourist attractions within the city. You receive a traditional Maori welcome at the venue. This is followed by a guided cultural experience that includes music and dance performance. The evening culminates with a variety of Maori delicacies and fusion dishes. You will need 2 hours for this experience.

I suggest you should book a Tour of Te Pa Tu Cultural Experience with Seasonal Maori Cuisine in advance.

11. Mudbath at Hell’s Gate

In 1934, G.B. Shaw called this place the Hell’s Gate owing to the boiling mud, spewing geysers, and steamy atmosphere. This Rotorua attraction is full of thermal pools, volcanoes, steaming waterfalls, fumaroles, sulphuric rocks, and beautiful landscapes. But, it is best known for therapeutic mud baths. It is one of the most fun things to do in Rotorua, New Zealand.

The minerals in the volcanic mud will heal your skin and muscles and rejuvenate your spirit. You should experience the traditional Wai Ora full body massage and bathe at the Huritini Hot Spring at Hell’s Gate. You will need 2 to 3 hours to enjoy this place. It can be a welcome break from all the physical activities to do in Rotorua.

I suggest you should book a Hell’s Gate Geothermal Walk, Mud Bath & Sulphur Spa Experience in advance.

12. Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

This movie set creates the world of the Shire (home of the Hobbits) from Lord of the Rings. The set is one of the most interesting places to see in Rotorua. You can tour the Shire town, peek into the house of Bilbo Baggins and other hobbits, the Party Tree, the Hill, and many other popular sites from the movies. You can also dine at the Green Dragon Inn and the Shire Rest Cafe. You will need to take an entire day from Rotorua travel to explore Hobbiton.

I suggest you should book a Day Tour to Hobbiton Movie Set from Rotorua in advance.

13. River Rafting & Kayaking at Okere Falls

While there are quite a few places to go in Rotorua for river rafting and kayaking, the Okere Falls holds a special place for a thrilling experience. At 7 meters, it is considered the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world.

You can have adrenaline pumping rafting and kayaking experience through the rapids leading up to this waterfall and then brace yourself for the waterfall cliff. It is one of the top things to do in Rotorua for adventure seekers. You can also enjoy rafting and kayaking in the rapids at Kaituna River, Tutea Falls, and Rangitaiki River. You will need at least 2 hours for this exciting experience during Rotorua travel.

I suggest you should book a Kaituna River White Water Rafting Experience in advance.

14. The Arts Village

This village is a community for artists, craftsmen, and cultural practices. The community has studios, workshops, exhibition spaces, markets, residences, and more. It is one of the best places to visit in Rotorua to take a look at alternative lifestyles. Visitors can enjoy workshops, live music, dance, paintings, and various other art forms. You will need at least an hour to tour the Arts Village.

15. The National Kiwi Hatchery

This hatchery is the only purpose-built Kiwi conservation centre in the world. The hatchery is a part of the Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park. You can see kiwi eggs, mother kiwi nursing those eggs, cute little kiwi chicks, and full-grown birds playing around. If you are lucky you can also get to see an egg hatch.

The centre is also popular for its indoor activities to do in Rotorua for children. The Big Splash is a waterpark of sorts in Rainbow Springs for children. You will also a few other birds and animals in this park including kingfishers, parrots, parakeets, water dragons, ducks, tuatara, and more. You will need about an hour to tour this place.

I suggest you should book a Guided Tour of The National Kiwi Hatchery in advance.

16. Zipline Canopy Forest Adventure

Walk above the treetops and zipline through the lush green forest. This canopy tour has more than 1200 meters of the zipline to cruise and 50 meters of the cliff walk. This is one of the most fun things to do in Rotorua. One of the zipline is 400 meters long, and it’s tandem. So you can race your friends, family, or better half while gliding over the jungle. You will need 2 to 3 hours from Rotorua travel for this experience.

I suggest you should book a Zipline Canopy Forest Adventure Experience in advance.

17. Secret Spot Hot Tubs

This spa experience takes you into the forest to bathe in hot spring water in a wooden bathtub surrounded by wilderness. It is one of the most incredible places to go in Rotorua. You can enjoy the soothing sight of lush green forest and the sounds of nature while the hot water relaxes your mind and body.

This experience is part of a bar so you can also order wine, beer, cider, and even hot beverages. FYI, the bar also gives your mini foot tubs, if you just want to dip your feet while enjoying drinks and snacks. You can easily spend a couple of hours hanging out at this place when you visit Rotorua.

I suggest you should book a Secret Spot Hot Tubs Experience in advance.

18. Rotorua Lake

This is the second-largest lake on the North Island of New Zealand. The lake and its surroundings are among the most beautiful things to see in Rotorua. You can enjoy hiking trails that go around the lake, enjoy the view from sightseeing spots, check out historical attractions, experience Maori villages, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities to do in Rotorua.

People come here for birdwatching, picnics, fishing, camping, swimming, kayaking, and touring the lake in boat cruises, duck boats, or jet boats. The lake also has some really nice beaches where you can enjoy leisure, spa, sports, hot pools, and surfing. You can easily spend a couple of hours enjoying the attractions and activities around this lake.

I suggest you should experience the Duck Boat Tour in Lake Rotorua.

19. Mokoia Island

This island sits in the middle of Lake Rotorua and you can hop in a jet boat or cruise boat to get here. The island is known for its picturesque views, geographical attractions, and historical sites. The biggest Rotorua attraction on this island is the Rhyolite Lava Dome which was formed when the region had high volcanic activity. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour this island.

20. Bay of Plenty Night Kayaking

While there are several places you can go for kayaking adventures in Rotorua, but this is a relatively calm and picturesque experience. The Bay of Plenty is known for its streamed caves which are full of glow worms. These glowworms stick to the walls of the caves creating a beautiful dotted pattern.

At some spots, it looks like the night sky inside the cave. It is one of the coolest things to do in Rotorua at night. You will need about 2 hours for this experience. Although, if you are looking for some adventurous kayaking, you can head to Lake Rotorua, Lake Rotoiti, Kaituna River, Tutea Falls, and Okere Falls.

21. White Water Sledging

Sledging is a water activity where you use a floating sledge to swim through the rapids. It is a fun and exciting activity and one of the most popular Rotorua tourist attractions for adventure seekers. You can head to Kaituna River or Kahikatea Forest for this adventure activity in Rotorua. You will need 2 to 3 hours for this experience.

I suggest you should book a White Water Sledging Experience in advance.

22. Te Wairoa Buried Village

This entire village was buried during the volcanic eruption of 1886. When Mt. Tarawera erupted, it coved the village in lava and ash, claiming more than 150 lives. The site tells the story of how people lived before the eruption and how they struggled against natural disaster. It is one of the most compelling places to see in Rotorua. You will need about 2 hours to tour the archeological site and its surrounding attractions.

I suggest you should go for a Guided Tour of Te Wairoa Buried Village.

23. Mt. Tarawera Volcano – Helicopter Tour & Hike Trails

This is the volcanic mountain that erupted in 1886, claiming the lives in Te Wairoa village and several others in the region. You can take a helicopter ride to reach atop the mountain and enjoy the views of hills, mountains, valleys, lakes, and forests all the way to the horizon.

Owing to years of volcanic activity and eruptions, the mountain has some unique geographical features and rock formations. You get to explore the terrain through hiking trails. You can also enjoy Rotorua sightseeing from the helicopter as you leave and approach the city. You will need about 3 to 4 hours for this experience.

I suggest either you should book a Mt. Tarawera Helicopter Tour with Volcano Landing or you should book a Mt Tarawera Volcanic Guided Hike Experience in advance.

24. Rotorua Glowworm Night Tours – Kayaking, Hiking, & Cave Exploration

This cave comes alive at night, illuminated by thousands of glowworms, which can only be found in New Zealand. You can explore these caves on foot or in kayaks, although you might need to crawl or crouch to get to certain parts.

Despite the effort, these glowworm-lit caves are among the best places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand. A tour guide will tell you about the natural history of these caves and their significance in the Maori culture.

It is an incredible journey that involves some of the best things to do in Rotorua at night including hiking and kayaking through streams & caves. You will need 3 to 4 hours to experience this place.

Here below I am suggesting two Top-Rated Glowworm Night Tours.

Glowworm Kayaking Tour
Nocturnal Adventure Glowworm Tour

25. Skyline Rotorua

Skyline Rotorua is actually a collection of attractions and activities surrounding a hill. You take a gondola ride up the hill and enjoy a scenic view of the surroundings. Once you are up the hill you can hang out in a restaurant and bars enjoying Rotorua sightseeing from above.

You can return downhill in the gondola ride or you can try out some of the top things to do in Rotorua, New Zealand. You can enjoy the sky swing which hoists you 50 meters in the air and then drops you at 150 km/hr. It is an adrenaline-pumping thrill ride.

You can ride down the slopes of the hill in small go-cart-like rides with a handle. You zoom down the slopes through the forests in these carts. You can also zipline downhill from Skyline Rotorua. This zipline extends for 400 meters and you can reach up to 80 km/hr as you glide above the forests. All in all, you need at least 4 to 5 hours to enjoy all the activities to do in Rotorua Skyline.

26. Velocity Valley Adrenaline Park

This adventure park has a variety of thrill rides and games for people seeking some adrenaline rush. The place has got bungee jumping, indoor skydiving, free falling, jet boat ride, thrill swings, body flying, monorail, racing, and more. This park is one of the most exhilarating Rotorua tourist attractions and you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the place.

I suggest you should get an Admission Ticket to Valocity Valley Adrenaline Park in advance.

27. Rotorua Museum of Art & History

This museum is built inside a former bathhouse, which is a historical and architectural monument by itself. The building is one of the most amazing things to see in Rotorua. You can still tour the Elizabethan Bath House and its regal interior features.

The museum inside the building will tell you about the history of the region. You will get to know about the natural history which includes a volcanic and geothermal activity. This sheds light on many of the famous Rotorua attractions that you visit.

You can also learn about the cultural history of various Maori tribes that resided in the region. The art museum features an impressive collection of historical and contemporary Maori artworks. The gallery is especially known for its collection of sculptures by renowned artist Charles Francis Summer Jr. You will need about 2 hours to tour this museum.

28. Zorb Rotorua

The concept is simple. You get into a large transparent ball. Then you roll down the hill enjoying a hell of a ride. This place has a variety of tracks for you to roll down or get dropped. You can go straight down or bounce against corners in a twisting track or splash into the water. These are among the most fun things to do in Rotorua, New Zealand. You need about an hour for this experience.

I suggest you should book a Zorb Inflatable Ball Ride from Mount Ngongotaha in advance.

29. Amokura Glass

This glasswork studio is a really interesting place. You will see glass morphed into incredible and unbelievable shapes. You can tour the workshop to see how it’s done and even get your own glassware made. You can even try your hand at this craft yourself. It is one of the most interesting places to see in Rotorua if you are looking for some experience. You will need 2 hours to tour the studio and for the workshops.

30. Rotorua Settlers and Steam Museum

This museum exhibits a variety of interesting artifacts hailing from the early settlers in the region. You will see a mix of European and Maori artifacts. You will see household items, farming equipment, steam engines, railway machinery, craftsmen’s tools, and so on. The museum gives you a glimpse of life in the region between the 1880s and 1900s. You will need an hour to tour this museum when you visit Rotorua.

31. Eat Street

Well, the name pretty much describes the place. It is a street where come to eat. It is lined up with shops, cafes, restaurants, and street food joints. You will find all sorts of cuisines and beverages to dine on. It is basically the top place to go in Rotorua to chow down on fantastic meals.

32. Volcanic Hills Winery

This is one of the few places where you can taste the local wine and see how it’s made. You will need to get on the Skyline Gondola to reach this winery. You can pick out wines as per your choice or join the wine-tasting sessions. Either way, you can enjoy the drinks with the incredible view of the hills. It is one of the prettiest things to see in Rotorua, especially with a little bit of wine buzz. You can easily spend an hour or more at this place.

33. Waikite Valley

This spa and natural therapy establishment dates back to 1972. The thermal pools get their water from Te Manarola Spring, which is the largest single source of pure boiling water in the entire country. People come here to relax in thermal pools while enjoying incredible views of hills, valleys, and geothermal landscapes. It is one of the best places to visit in Rotorua for the Polynesian spa experience. You need at least an hour to enjoy this place.

34. Kuirau Park & Market

This public park is a geothermal site. You can see hot springs, mud pools, and crater lakes. The park also has walking trails, picnic spots, bbq corners, playgrounds, gardens, and paddling pools. It is known for some of the best things to do in Rotorua city including a free thermal pool foot bath.

The park also hosts Saturday Morning North Rotary Market. The market has about 50 stalls selling fresh produce, food products, street food, baked goods, plants, snacks, arts, handicrafts, and more. You can easily spend an hour or so at the park and the market when you visit Rotorua.

35. Rotorua Night Market

This night market is held on Tutanekai Street once a week. It is one of the most happening Rotorua tourist attractions. You will see the street lit up with LEDs.

The market is full of art, craft, and handicraft shops. People also love to come here to try out a variety of street food delicacies from trucks and stalls. While some people come here to enjoy the live performances. You can easily spend a couple of hours from Rotorua travel to explore this market.

36. Lake Tarawera

The lake is part of Mt. Tarawera and is one of the largest lakes in the country. It is popular for a variety of fun activities to do in Rotorua. People come here for water sports, boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The lake has some amazing beaches and nature trails. It is also surrounded by natural hot pools for you to relax. While exploring the trails around the lake, you will also come across several historical and cultural Rotorua attractions. You will need 3 to 4 hours to explore this natural wonder.

I suggest you should Experience the Duck Boat Tour at Lake Tarawera.

37. Mount Ngongotaha Scenic Reserve

This nature reserve is best known for its beautiful hiking trails and viewpoints. The Jubilee Track is the most popular trail in this reserve. It takes you all the way up to the Mt. Ngongotaha’s summit where you can behold some of the most wonderful things to see in Rotorua. This mountain is actually a volcanic dome and it overlooks the city of Rotorua. Along the trail, you will come across a variety of plants, trees, and bird species. The track is about 5 km long and you need 2 to 3 hours to complete it.

38. Lake Rotoiti

Although its name means “small lake”, this lake is quite large. This lake is also popular among tourists and locals for a variety of cool things to do in Rotorua including hiking, boating, fishing, and hot springs. The most famous attraction at this lake is Manupirua Springs. You can take guided kayaking tours to learn about the natural features and history of the lake and the hot springs. You will need 2 to 3 hours to explore the lake and the attractions around it.

I suggest you should go for an Evening Kayak and Glowworm Caves Tour at Lake Rotoiti.

39. Tongariro National Park

This national park is a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is included in the prestigious list for its natural as well as cultural heritage. People come here for a variety of adventurous activities to do in Rotorua, New Zealand.

This includes hiking, trekking, camping, mountain biking, river rafting, and so on. The natural park includes forests, geothermal landscapes, volcanic mountains, historical sites, cultural attractions, rivers, ravines, caves, and more.

The park is also famous for fun things to do in Rotorua in winter including skiing and snowboarding. Mt. Ruapehu has several lodges, cottages, cabins, and resorts for a variety of winter retreats and activities.

You need 2 hours to get to the national park from Rotorua and you need at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the park. People also make day and multi-day trips to Tongariro National Park when they visit Rotorua in search of nature and adventure.

I suggest you should book a Full Day Hiking Trip at Tongariro National Park in advance.

40. Ohinemutu Village

This village is a major historical and cultural site. The history of this village dates back to 1350 and belongs to the Ngati Whakue tribe. Ohinemutu village is best known for historical places to see in Rotorua that hail from the late 1900s.

These include Tama te Kapua Meeting House and St. Faith’s Church. The village depicts a unique blend of British and Maori cultures. You will see this reflected in the architecture, interiors, and artworks in the village. You will need about an hour to tour this village.

41. Hamurana Springs Nature Reserve

This reserve is best known for its crystal-clear freshwater geothermal spring. It is also one of the deepest springs in North Island. It is one of the most beautiful places to go in Rotorua, New Zealand.

The spring is close to a village belonging to the Ngati Rangiwewehi. You can actually tour the reserve guided by a descendant of the tribe. You will need about 2 hours to explore this nature reserve.

42. Government Gardens

These gardens are a part of the Rotorua Museum complex and were gifted by the Ngati Whakaue tribe to the British Crown during the 1800s. The garden has several attractions including the museum, Klamath Fall Rose Gardens, Te Runanga Tea Pavilion, Band Rotunda, and Blue Baths. This is a place for some leisurely Rotorua sightseeing and you will need about an hour to tour this garden.

43. Blue Bath Pools

This large pool is part of the Government Gardens and is fueled by water from geothermal springs. It is one of the best places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand where you can swim in natural geothermal spring waters. You can easily spend a couple of hours relaxing at this pool.

44. Motion Entertainment

While you have a lot to do in outdoors, this place offers a lot of indoor activities to do in Rotorua, New Zealand. This entertainment venue has laser tag, VR games, arcade games, bowling, mini golf, a tramp park, escape rooms, and more. It is a great place to blow off some steam after Rotorua sightseeing and you can easily enjoy a couple of hours at this place.

45. Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre

This wildlife conservation centre is home to a variety of birds including raptors, owls, falcons, kites, eagles, harriers, and more. But it is best known for some of the top things to do in Rotorua, New Zealand. You can interact with many of the birds, watch them fly, hold them in your arms, and even pet them. You need about 2 hours to tour this conservation centre.

46. Paradise Valley Springs Wildlife Parks

This wildlife park houses a variety of animals, birds, and fishes. Some of the highlight species of this park include African Lions, Deers, Sheep, Ducks, Emu, Kea, Eels, Trouts, and more. The park is also known among Rotorua tourist attractions for its animal interactions and feeding sessions. You need an hour to tour this park when you visit Rotorua.

47. Kerosene Creek

This creek is yet another one of Rotorua’s attractions where you can swim in naturally heated spring water. But here, the geothermal hot water meets the cool water of the stream creating a lukewarm temperature. People come here for picnics, hiking, bathing, and swimming. The waterfall in this creek is also one of the most picturesque things to see in Rotorua. You will need 2 to 3 hours to explore this place.

48. Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park

Also known as the Hidden Valley, this place is known for its curious-looking volcanic landscape and geothermal terrain. You will see rocks, geysers, pools, caves, and silica terraces of various colours forming wonderful patterns. It is one of the most interesting places to see in Rotorua. It almost looks like you are in a fantasy film or video game. You will need about 2 hours to explore this region.

I suggest you should book a book Self-Guided Tour to Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park.

49. Mount Kakaramea

Also known as Rainbow Mountain, this behemoth has a variety of terrains including forests, grasslands, geothermal terrain, rock formations, craters, streams, lakes, ridges, caves, and more. The mountain is especially known for its hiking and mountain biking trail.

It is one of the coolest things to do in Rotorua, New Zealand. The trail takes you through a variety of terrain viewpoints, and natural attractions. You need 2 to 3 hours for this trail.

50. Adventure Playground

This park is great for a variety of adventure activities to do in Rotorua. This includes 4×4 off-roading, horse rides, clay bird shooting, target shooting, archery, paintball, and bike rides. You can easily spend a couple of hours enjoying the activities here.

I suggest you should try a 4×4 Self-Drive Yamaha Buggy Experience in advance.

If you are looking for more places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand check out the sections below. We have put together a complete list of places and activities that you can enjoy in and around the city.

Top Things to Do in Rotorua, New Zealand

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Rotorua, New Zealand

Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village
Mitai Maori Village
Buried Village of Te Wairoa
Te Pa Tu – The Gathering Place
Rotorua Museum and Art Gallery
Anglican Church
Te Papaiouru Marae
Rotorua Settlers and Steam Museum
Te Amorangi Trust
Ngongotaha Railway Park

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Rotorua, New Zealand

Te Puia Geothermal Valley
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve
Redwoods Forest
Kuirau Park
Whakarewarewa State Forest Park
Pohutu Geyser
Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre
Mt. Tarawera
The National Kiwi Hatchery
Lake Okareka Reserve
Paradise Valley Springs
Mount Ngongotaha Scenic Reserve
Stoney Point Reserve
Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve
Lake Tikitapu
Kakahi Falls
Lake Okareka
Tikitapu Nature Walk
Whaka Geothermal Trail
Lake Rotoiti
Okere Falls
Okawa Bay
Bay of Plenty
Te Wairoa Falls
Blue Track Lake
Tutea Falls
Lake Tarawera
Manupirua Lake
Lake Rotokawau
Mokoia Island
Lake Rotorua
Gisborne Point
Lake Rotokakahi
Te Weta Bay
Lake Okataina
Wairua Stream
Rotorua Caldera
Tarawera Falls
Te Rata Bay
Te Tapahoro Bay

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Places in Rotorua, New Zealand

Skyline Rotorua
Rotorua Canopy Tours
Polynesian Spa
ZORB Rotorua
Velocity Valley Adrenaline Park
Redwoods Treewalk
Agrodome
3D Trick Art Galley
Secret Spot Hot Tubs
Rotorua Skyswing
Rotorua Mini Golf
Volcanic Hills Winery
Rotorua Golf Club
Drift Kartz
Whakarewarewa Mountain Bike Park
Rachel Spring Whangapipiro
Zoom Ziplines
Rotorua Heritage Farm
Centennial Park
Kuirau Park Footbaths
Wonderland 3D Maze
Kahukiwi Experiences
Geyser By Night
Lake Rotoiti Holiday Park

Shopping in Rotorua, New Zealand

Rotorua Night Market
Lakefront Playground
The Arts Village
Rotorua Central Mall
Kuirau Park Market

Beaches & Island in Rotorua

Boyes Beach
Lake Rotorua Beach

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventure in Rotorua

Cave Exploration
Zipline
Mountain Biking
Hiking
Trekking
Camping
Polynesian Spa
Swimming
River Rafting
Kayaking
Luging
Sledging
Skiing
Boat Cruise
Helicopter Tour
Airplane Tour
Zorbing
Mud Bath
Bungee Jumping
Dirt Bike Tours

Sightseeing in Rotorua

Government Gardens
Sulphur Point
Rotorua Lakefront Boardwalk
Lakefront Playground
The Blue Lake Lookout
The Green Lake Lookout
Western Okataina Walkway
Te Runanga Tea House

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Rotorua

Eat Streat
Pataka Kai at Te Puia
Caper’s Cafe
White Tiger Restaurant & Bar
Arts Village Cafe
River’s Catch
Charlie’s Cafe
Poco Tapas & Wine
Ciabatta Cafe
Number 8 Wire
Fat Dog Cafe
Ani’s Gin & Bar
Le Cafe de Paris
Good Eastern Taphouse
Market Kitchen Cafe
Duke’s Bar & Restaurant
Picnic Cafe
Barrel & Co. Bar & Grill
Scope Rotorua
Ambrosia Restaurant & Bar
Sequoia Eatery Rotorua
The Fainting Goat
Third Place Cafe
Eastwood

Where to Stay in Rotorua?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range, and Budget Hotels in Rotorua. You can check the below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Rotorua.

Luxurious Hotels

Mid-Range Hotels

Budget Hotels

Custom Tours Package in Rotorua

How to Reach Rotorua?

By Air

The Rotorua Airport is the fastest way to reach Rotorua. The airport receives direct flights from Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington. If you want to visit Rotorua from international destinations, you can use these airports to get connecting flights to this mountain city. You can get buses and cabs from the airport to get to Rotorua City.

By Road

You don’t get any trains for Rotorua travel. Hamilton and Otorohanga are the closest train station to visit Rotorua. You can get to these stations and take buses to reach Rotorua. You can get direct buses to travel to Rotorua from several towns and cities on the North Island of New Zealand.

If you are planning to reach Rotorua by road, you should head for routes 5, 30, 33, or 36. You can take a rental car from a major airport or train station cities on the North Island and drive to Rotorua.

By Water

There are no water routes to visit Rotoru. Although you can take boat tours on Rotorua to reach different villages and attractions along the lake’s shore.

Image Reference

Mitai Maori Village – Bex Walton / Flickr
Te Puia Springs – Makalu / PixaBay
Whakarewarewa – The Living Maori Village – denisbin / Flickr
Mountain Biking in Whakarewarewa Forest Park – JSilver / Flickr
Redwoods Trail in Whakarewarewa Forest Park – Eli Duke / Flickr
Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland – LukasBasel / PixaBay
Waimangu Volcanic Valley – Katie / Flickr
Agrodome – Robert Linsdell / Flickr
Polynesian Spa – Eli Duke / Flickr
Te Pa Tu Maori Cultural Experience – Stephen Colebourne / Flickr
Mudbath at Hell’s Gate – Vincent Lammin / Flickr
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour – Dodd Lu / Flickr
River Rafting & Kayaking at Okere Falls – Kathrin & Stefan Marks / Flickr
The Arts Village –
The National Kiwi Hatchery – Judi Lapsley Miller / Wikimedia Commons
Zipline Canopy Forest Adventure – rickyoumans / PixaBay
Secret Spot Hot Tubs –
Rotorua Lake – Andrey Terekhov / Flickr
Mokoia Island – chriss / Flickr
Bay of Plenty Night Kayaking –
White Water Sledging –
Te Wairoa Buried Village – Gwydion M. Williams / Flickr
Mt. Tarawera Volcano – Helicopter Tour & Hike Trails – giiku / Flickr
Waitomo Glowworm Caves – Dr. Thomas Liptak / Flickr
Skyline Rotorua – Wade Tregaskis / Flickr
Velocity Valley Adrenaline Park –
Rotorua Museum of Art & History – Dr. Thomas Liptak / Flickr
Zorb Rotorua – Michael Kwok / Flickr
Amokura Glass –
Rotorua Settlers and Steam Museum –
Eat Street – VirtualWolf / Flickr
Volcanic Hills Winery –
Waikite Valley – Brian Gratwicke / Flickr
Kuirau Park & Market – Radek Strnad / Flickr
Rotorua Night Market – Fuwuyuan / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Tarawera – Makalu / PixaBay
Mount Ngongotaha Scenic Reserve – eyeintim / Flickr
Lake Rotoiti – Karin Noresten / Flickr
Tongariro National Park – russellstreet / Flickr
Ohinemutu Village – Vincent Lammin / Flickr
Hamurana Springs Nature Reserve – Vincent Lammin / Flickr
Government Gardens – Lei Sheldon / PixaBay
Blue Bath Pools – Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons
Motion Entertainment –
Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre – Michael Tolich / Flickr
Paradise Valley Springs Wildlife Parks – Adam Axon / Flickr
Kerosene Creek – David Lynch / Flickr
Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park – Steve Watson / Flickr
Mount Kakaramea – Michal Klajban / Wikimedia Commons
Adventure Playground –