Rotorua sits on the shores of Lake Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand. Known for its hydrothermal activity, it has gained popularity from its naturally hot thermal springs, mud pools and spectacular geysers. It is a place where Maori values, traditions, songs and dances are on show to every tourist and makes Rotorua a unique destination.
There are numerous townships with unique attractions in and around Rotorua, so it’s a great location from which to explore the area. Hit the road to experience some of these great attractions or head further a field on a road trip.
Rotorua Attractions
From lush native forests punctuated by sixteen lakes to the awe-inspiring volcanic mountains, Rotorua offers some of the world’s best mountain biking trails and walking tracks as well as excellent trout fishing.
You won’t want to miss magnificent Mount Tarawera, responsible for New Zealand’s largest volcanic eruption in 1886. Hot Water Beach can also be found at Lake Tarawera, where the sand is so warm you can dig a hole and make your own spa pool or you can even cook in it! Te Wairoa, popularly known as the Buried Village is also a must see, providing fascinating insight into what happened during the historical Mt Tarawera eruption.
The Waimangu Volcanic Valley is 20 minutes south of Rotorua, another stunning result of the Tarawera eruption. The spectacular multi-coloured rock formations and beautiful pools and springs are not to be missed. Another unforgettable experience is the Lady Knox Geyser at Wai-O-Tapu, a unique thermal wonderland, and the boiling, bubbling mud of Hell’s Gate at Tikitere 16 km north of Rotorua is one more geothermal attraction to add to your to do list.
Head to Whakarewarewatanga (known as Whaka by the locals) visit the Living Thermal Village for cultural performances and guided tours, and don’t miss an encounter with the mighty Pohutu Geyser, the largest in New Zealand.
Rotorua Road Trips
Heading south from Rotorua takes you to Taupo. It offers panoramic views over the lake and is an excellent location for sky diving, jet boating and paragliding. From here you can also visit the North Island’s largest forest, Kaingaroa Forest, which is also one of the oldest and largest softwood plantations in the world.
Northwest takes you to Te Puke, Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty. Don’t miss the best kiwifruit from the kiwifruit capital of the world, Te Puke. It is often visited by tourists during its kiwifruit festival but you can also enjoy white sandy beaches, boating, game fishing and tramping. Tauranga features many natural attractions and spectacular coastal scenery. Its beaches attract swimmers, surfers, kayakers and kite surfers throughout the year. Other popular Bay of Plenty destinations include Mount Maunganui, the ‘mural town’ of Katikati, the peaceful coastal village of Waihi Beach and historic Maketu.
Whakatane is another coastal town in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Whakatane boasts several attractions such as White Island, one of the world’s few accessible active volcanoes and Ohope Beach, boasting 11 kilometres of golden Pacific sand and safe swimming waters.
Rotorua Travel
Getting around Rotorua is easy with a rental car and there are plenty of options for you to choose from.
New Zealand Rent A Car has car rental locations throughout New Zealand and the North Island, including a handy Rotorua car rental depot, offering a wide range of reliable affordable rental cars to suit all budgets.
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