Leave the ordinary world behind and explore a place where the hazards on the local golf course are bubbling mud pools. Watch a geyser erupt, pick your way around steaming hot pools, or visit a geothermal spa complex for a relaxing soak or Māori massage. Then take in a cultural experience, from a soul-satisfying forest walk with a Māori guide to a stirring powhiri followed by a traditional hangi dinner.
Highlights
Geothermal activity Rotorua lies atop a geothermal field that makes its presence known with incredible geysers, bubbling mud pools, hot mineral pools and silica terraces. Mount Tarawera A popular destination for hiking and flight-seeing, with its multi-coloured crater and steep slopes offering fantastic views. Hot mineral bathing For centuries the geothermal waters of Rotorua have drawn bathers seeking indulgent relaxation and rejuvenation. Māori culture Rotorua offers a range of Māori cultural experiences unparalleled anywhere – taste a hangi, watch a cultural performance and historical re-enactment or try your hand at Māori crafts. Wildlife encounters Rotorua is home to several wildlife attractions, including a breeding facility for kiwi. Rotorua lakes The rolling hills around Rotorua shelter numerous picturesque lakes: Green Lake is closed to visitors, but Blue Lake, Lake Tarawera, Lake Rotoma and Lake Rotorua are all enticing.
Destinations
Rotorua Busy lakeside town with a deep cultural heart in a geothermal setting. Lake Rotoma Peaceful lake popular with New Zealand campers. Ngongotaha Tranquil trout fishing complements adrenaline-pumping activities of every kind.
Getting There and Around
Air Rotorua International Airport operates international flights to Sydney, Australia, and domestic flights to several New Zealand towns. The airport is 10 minutes’ drive from town. Road Rotorua is situated on the Thermal Explorer Highway. Centrally located, Rotorua is easily accessible from Auckland, the Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Taupo. It is 3 hours, 20 minutes from Auckland, 1 hour, 35 minutes from Hamilton and 1 hour, 15 minutes from Tauranga. Coaches provide regular regional services. Auckland to Rotorua [234 km; 3 hr, 20 min] Rotorua to Taupo [80 km; 1 hr, 10 min] Rotorua to Whakatane [85 km; 1 hr, 15 min] Rotorua to Tauranga [86 km; 1 hr, 15 min] Rotorua to Hamilton [108 km; 1 hr, 35 min] Rotorua to New Plymouth [299 km; 4 hr, 15 min] Within Rotorua there are taxis, shuttle buses and a metropolitan bus service.
