Rotorua

Rotorua's spectacular night show

Under a cloak of darkness, walk up to the largest geyser in the southern hemisphere. Te Puia's Geyser By Night experience takes guests through the Rotorua geothermal wonderland after dark, past bubbling mud and boiling hot pools to reach the geyser Pōhutu, with a kaleidoscope of colours bouncing off the steam. Sample steamed pudding cooked in a natural hot spring, feel the mist of the geysers on your skin, while hearing about the legends of this incredible site, that was 200,000 years in the making. Read more

A magnificent geothermal safari

The eruption of Mt Tarawera saw the creation of the youngest geothermal system in the world, including the largest hot spring and the largest geyser-like feature. The enormous Frying Pan Lake at the Waimangu Volcanic Valley looks like one giant smoking pan, heated by a magma chamber just two kilometres below the surface. The self-guided walk through the valley winds past the vast hot spring, geysers, streams and dozens of other bubbling features like the cobalt blue Inferno Crater. At the bottom of the valley, a boat awaits, where you can explore Lake Rotomahana's steaming shores and fumaroles. Read more

Our newest Great Ride

Rotorua’s 33-kilometre Whakarewarewa Forest Loop is the latest cycle trail to be awarded Great Ride status. The trail alternates between native blocks and redwood forest as it slowly climbs, culminating in a magnificent view of Lake Rotorua. The beauty begins the moment you start, as you enter a path of almost mythical native bush and pass a bubbling mud pool. It weaves past pieces of Māori art and down towards Lake Tikitapu, also known as Blue Lake and Lake Rotokākahi, also known as the Green Lake. Read more

Where to see baby kiwi

Rotorua's National Kiwi Hatchery is a pretty remarkable place to visit. You’ll get a behind the scenes glimpse into the kiwi hatchery – and if you arrive for the 10am tour – could see a host of chicks undergo their daily weigh-in and health check. The hatchery is New Zealand's biggest and has been instrumental in helping increase the survival rate of newborn kiwi. Eggs from sanctuaries around New Zealand are brought to the centre to be incubated, then hatched. If a kiwi is born at the hatchery, around 95% will make it to the one-kilogram mark, and be released back into the sanctuary they were taken from. Read more

Hula, haka and hāngī

People pining for a trip to tropical Polynesia, need look no further than Rotorua. Mitai Māori Village brings Polynesian song and dance to Kiwis, as part of its nightly Māori cultural concert and hāngī. This show is where hula and haka combine, to tell the story of the great waka migration from Polynesia to Aotearoa. It is a story for all New Zealanders about how and why Polynesians became Māori of Aotearoa. Read more

Rotorua's buried village

Te Wairoa is New Zealand's Pompeii: A village, full of homes and people, that was buried under metres of mud in the massively violent 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera. Years later, it was partially excavated. Now you can walk through it and see where and how the Māori and European inhabitants lived before the mountain exploded in the middle of the night and killed more than 150, here and in neighbouring settlements. Allow plenty of time for the interactive museum, full of artefacts and information about life back then. Read more

Wallow in thermal waters

People have been coming to Rotorua to wallow in its thermal waters for hundreds of years. The Polynesian Spa offers a sophisticated experience and can be enjoyed privately - or with company. The spa offers a wide range of treatments and massages and clients are ushered into a spacious lounge with views across the steaming pools to the lake. A mud wrap and massage will leave your skin smooth, soft and scented, and your muscles eased and loose. Aim to arrive well before your treatment, so you have plenty of time to sample the 28 pools, each with a different temperature. Read more

An amphibious WWII landing craft

The bright yellow vehicles of the iconic Rotorua Duck Tours have been offering visitors a quirky way to see the city for 20 years. Rug up – these authentic amphibious WWII landing craft are open to the elements but worth braving the cold for the novelty of driving straight from road onto water. The tours wind along the city’s lakefront first, before motoring out to Lake Tikitapu and then Ōkāreka. It gets two thumbs up as a firm family favourite. Read more

The secret hot waterfall

Orakei Korako is a little-known valley of geothermal wonder sitting between Taupō and Rotorua. It has 23 geysers, tucked away in the hillside. The park sits on a remote part of the Waikato River, and just a few minutes further north is a hidden waterfall at bath temperature. To get to the waterfall, you'll need to grab a ride with River Jet and then squeeze through a narrow water-filled crevice, but it's worth the effort. The trip is not recommended for anyone with extreme claustrophobia. Read more

Hot pools accessible by boat or plane

On the expansive bush-lined Lake Rotoiti is Manupirua Hot Pools – one of the most isolated thermal baths in New Zealand. The only way to get to these hot springs is by air (seaplane) or water. Because of its isolation, the place has a 1980s vibe about it. There is no bustle, no blaring music and no fancy technology. It’s all about the seven mineral pools, nestled in the native bush down by the water’s edge. The pools all differ in temperature and you can refresh by a sliding into the lake, which is cheekily called a “giant” plunge pool. Read more

The natural boiling spring

This is the perfect place to soak in some of the country's most pristine waters and get away from the crowds. The Waikite Valley Thermal Pools is fed by the largest natural source of boiling water in New Zealand, Te Manaroa Spring. The nearby spring bubbles violently, and the river that flows from it is cooled, before entering the pools. It's not treated with chemicals, or reused - it simply flows through the complex and back into the stream. Don't miss the tranquil garden pools that overlooking the boiling stream.

Ultimate waterfall action

On the Kaituna River running out of Lake Rotoiti, there is a set of waterfalls that has something for everybody. Along the river is an inviting bush walk through the surrounding reserve, plus a glowworm grotto, Māori history, caves to peer into and the remains of the country's first hydro power station. The only thing you can't do here is swim, because of all the rapids and waterfalls – but that does mean that the various types of rafting on offer are exciting both to do – and to watch from convenient viewing platforms. Read more

New Zealand's craziest adventure

River sledging is where white-water rafting meets the luge. Essentially, you shoot down a river clinging to a board, coming face-to-face with grade three rapids, or high waves, broken water, strong eddies, exposed rocks and small falls. In other words: lots of fun. Your guides from Kaitiaki Adventures will give you instructions before attempting each rapid, like The Cheese Grater and The Cave. If adrenaline runs through your veins - and you've already given rafting a go - this should be your next stop. Read more

Monster truck fun

Combine parts of a Jeep, Holden and Toyota Landcruiser into one giant 4X4, and you have Offroad NZ's version of a monster truck. It's a thrill ride – with a professional driver – who will take you on a rollercoaster dirt track down drops, over jumps, through bush mazes and on obstacles like "The Widow Maker" and the "Roll Me Over". If 15 hair-raising-minutes tearing around the track isn't enough, you can even have a go yourself, on a separate "4WD Bush Safari". Read more

Hoist the mainsail

Passengers needn’t worry about rough seas on board this eco-sailing experience on Lake Rotoiti. Pure Cruise’s 53-foot catamaran, Tiua, can cater for up to 35 guests in any weather. The operator offers a minimum charter length of three hours for up to 20 guests, while overnight stays allow the opportunity to explore the lake’s many bays, caves and coves, alongside activities from trout fishing to bush walks. Arrange to bring your own food and snacks onboard or savour fine cuisine complimented by New Zealand wines from the onboard bar. Read more

Kayak over the Eighth Wonder of the World

New Zealand has hundreds of kayak trips, but Paddle Board Rotorua's new tour has to be one of the most remarkable. In the geothermal wonderland of Waimangu Volcanic Valley, you can paddle within metres of steaming cliffs, floating inside what is essentially a giant volcano crater. Waimangu is the youngest geothermal system in the world after Mount Tarawera erupted in 1886. The disaster saw most life within six kilometres extinguished, with the loss of around 120 people and several villages. Māori had been living near the lake since around 1600. As you glide across the lake, more than 130 years later, it's hard to imagine the devastation that unfolded. Read more

The living Māori village

While Rotorua’s Māori heritage is famous, it’s good to see its more everyday side too. On a wander around Ōhinemutu village, you can see how the thermal waters are put to practical use, and admire the carvings on the outside of the meeting house. Right beside the lake is the equally striking Anglican church, St Faith’s, which is richly decorated inside with a dazzling abundance of tekoteko panels. It's free to wander around the village and attend Holy Communion, conducted in both Māori and English. Read more

A hot pool which predicts earthquakes

Step back in time and discover life in the remarkable geothermal village of Whakarewarewa, where homes overlook steaming hot pools that are used for cooking, cleaning and bathing. It's a way of life that's been preserved for hundreds of years, and visitors can learn how the people of the village have learned how to read the waters — a certain pool is even used as a barometer to forecast the weather. Feel the steam rising and hear the waters bubbling as you learn about a way of life largely unchanged for hundreds of years. Read more

The valley of thermal secrets

Most New Zealanders know Rotorua's incredible geothermal park, Hell’s Gate, for its mud pools that you can bathe in – but there is so much more to discover. A self-guided walk through the park offers insight into the Māori people who thrived here for hundreds of years and a glimpse of the precious taonga. Highlights include a giant hot waterfall where warriors would bathe after battle, a labyrinth of paths that weave around steaming pools and the largest mud volcano in the southern hemisphere. Read more

The best spot for a selfie

Rotorua's 3D Trick Art Gallery has 50 cleverly designed 3D backgrounds to interact with and pose against. There are five sections to the gallery, each containing a set of hyper-realistic artworks to fit into and let your imagination loose on. You can ride a dolphin, fight off a great white shark, teeter across a chasm or dangle from the basket of a hot-air balloon. There are Māori-themed backgrounds to work with, too, as well as wildlife that includes dinosaurs. Read more

World-class Mexican cuisine

There’s a tiny Mexican restaurant cooking up magic in Rotorua. In fact, El Mexicano Zapata Cantina cheekily declares itself to be the ‘Best Mexican Restaurant Outside Mexico’. The claim may have substance: travellers visiting the region are in awe of the Cantina, which has amassed hundreds of rave reviews for its mouth-watering food. The superb ceviche de pescado, jalapeno poppers, calamari fritos and house speciality enchilada will have you coming back for more. Read more

Three of Rotorua's best bars

Thanks to the generous garden bar, more than 60 beers and good food, the Craft Bar & Kitchen is the place to go for a great night out in Rotorua. Housed in the original police station, the Pig & Whistle gastropub is one of the city’s oldest bars. The Volcanic Hills Winery tasting room next to the iconic Skyline Gondola is where you can taste wine made on-site alongside a cheese platter. Read more

Dinner and a show

Te Pā Tū (formerly Tamaki Māori Village) is found in a recreated village under the shelter of a 200-year-old native tawa forest. The award-winning attraction recently rebranded its two cultural experiences to share Māori history and traditions. The Tū Te Rā summer harvest celebration promises an evening of haka, waiata and a three-course dinner across four hours. In winter, the Tū Te Ihi experience looks to the Matariki star cluster for themed performance and kai in the beautifully lit forest.

A world of kai under one roof

Rotorua’s Eat Streat has a fantastic range of restaurants on one all-weather, thermally heated block-long strip. Found at the ‘lake end’ of Tutanekai Street, choose from pub grub, burgers and steak, to tapas, Indian, Italian and classic Kiwi. Atticus Finch prides itself on inspiration from around the world and tasting plates that suit relaxed friend groups or family nights out. Enjoy dessert at Lady Jane’s Ice Cream Parlour, where you’re spoiled for choice with around 50 flavours. It recently launched a warm dessert menu including toasted waffles, brownies, doughnuts and cookies. Read more

Pizza by the foot

For a gastropub that is relaxed yet classy, head to The Fainting Goat in Tutanekai Street. The food is designed for sharing. Order pizza by the foot, and we challenge you to find a more impressive platter. Served on wine barrels, the Kaimoana and Goat’s Tribe platters are perfect for feeding the troops. On the cocktail front, the drinks are named after songs on the playlist and the barman uses the finest New Zealand artisan spirits. The Fainting Goat is the perfect spot to yarn about the day’s adventures over a G&T with friends. Read more

For post-cycling sustenance

Emerging from the Redwoods with an appetite? Visit Eastwood Cafe for some darn good Atomic coffee, wood-fired pizza and a trendy fit-out. Eastwood caters to an eclectic bunch of customers, from scientists to mountain bikers and locals out for their daily hike. Arriving at Eastwood, you'll see the elegant white pizza oven that takes centre stage in the open-plan kitchen. With loads of outdoor seating and ample space to park your mountain bike, it is an easy option with friendly staff who go above and beyond. Read more

Quiet, private and focused on nature

Built of stone and local timber, with big windows looking out over the trout-filled stream that tinkles past the front door, Treetops Lodge & Estate knows how to make an impression. Inside, the décor is also elegantly natural, with bare stone, polished rimu and multiple mounted animal heads gazing down from the high walls. There is also a games room with full-sized billiards table, a library for intimate dining as well as reading, a long table for communal dining, a cosy bar and a friendly open kitchen. There is also a cooking school and a spa. Read more

A spectacular couples escape

Tucked away on a quiet corner of a rolling farm, Jo Wilson and Dean Dew have a secret little spot called Kokako Retreat. After a self-guided drive across the farm, guests are greeted by three pods. The first is relaxation central – it has a comfy couch in front of a fire, bean bags and a swing chair with sweeping views. The second has a neatly appointed kitchen and bathroom and the last is home to a large plush bed, overlooking the bush, with a clawfoot bath out front. The tiny home retreat is designed for couples. Read more

Brilliant location and steak

Situated slap bang in the centre of town, Pullman Rotorua sits in a privileged position opposite the tourist information office on Arawa Street, with easy walks to all the main streets, lakeside and Government Gardens. The dark glassed 10-storey building was the Zen Centre before being turned into a 130-bedroom five-star hotel. It has superior king rooms, superior twin rooms, deluxe rooms and executive suites on offer — both comfortable and chic. The in-house Barrel & Co serves the city's best steaks. Read more

Accessible luxury villas

Toka Ridge’s one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom villas manage to feel both upmarket and homely enough for a family getaway. Situated on the northern side of Lake Rotorua at Hamurana, the villas are south-facing with huge windows that highlight the view and bring in natural light.The grounds are beautifully landscaped with boulders and corten steel sculptures used as subtle privacy screens. A cedar tub is shared by the villas for evening soaking. Read more

Glamour in the heart of town

The Regent Of Rotorua is just a stone’s throw from attractions in the city centre. The boutique four-star-plus hotel with 35 guest rooms is centred around the outdoor pool and is big enough to offer all the amenities you expect in a hotel but small enough for personal service and attention to detail. All the rooms are stylishly contemporary with designer furniture and super comfy bedding. Read more

For more information visit rotoruanz.com