9 - Rotorua

🌋🌿 About this place

Rotorua is one of the most culturally rich destinations in Aotearoa, known for its strong Māori heritage and geothermal activity. The region has long been home to iwi who live closely connected to the land, using its natural heat for cooking, bathing and daily life.

The name Rotorua means “second lake” in Māori, referring to Lake Rotorua. Today, the area is famous for its bubbling mud pools, geysers and the powerful presence of the earth just beneath the surface.

✨ What to do around Rotorua

⭐ Don’t Miss

🌋 Te Puia
A must-visit geothermal valley where you can witness the famous Pōhutu Geyser erupting up to 30 meters high. The area also includes traditional Māori carving and weaving schools, offering a deeper cultural experience.

🎢 Skyline Luge Rotorua
One of the most fun and accessible adventure activities in New Zealand. Ride a gondola up the hill and race down on a luge track with incredible views over Lake Rotorua.

🌲 Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
A stunning forest of towering Californian redwoods. Perfect for walking, biking or the famous Treewalk experience with suspended bridges among the trees.

♨️ Kerosene Creek
A natural hot river hidden in the forest. Free to access and one of the best “local secret” experiences. Sit in the warm flowing water surrounded by nature.

🌊 Hot & Cold Stream (Wai-O-Tapu area)
A unique geothermal phenomenon where hot water meets a cold river. You can literally move between temperatures — one of the most unusual swimming spots in the country.

🌿 Kuirau Park
A free geothermal park right in the city. Walk among steaming vents, bubbling mud pools and hot lakes. A rare chance to experience geothermal activity without paying entry.

🧭 Explore More

⚪ ZORB Rotorua
A fun and iconic New Zealand activity where you roll downhill inside a giant inflatable ball filled with water.

🎨 Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
One of the most colorful geothermal parks in the country, featuring bright mineral pools like the Champagne Pool and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

🌋 Waimangu Volcanic Valley
A quieter and more natural geothermal area formed after a volcanic eruption. Offers walking tracks through craters, lakes and steaming terrain.

🌊 Okere Falls & Kaituna River
A beautiful area known for waterfalls and one of the highest commercially rafted waterfalls in the world.

🏛️ Rotorua Museum / Government Gardens Area
Historic buildings, gardens and cultural landmarks located near the lakefront.

🚶 Lake Rotorua Walks
Relaxed walking areas along the lake with views, birdlife and geothermal activity nearby.