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

• 🌋 Visit a geothermal park (Te Puia / Wai-O-Tapu)
  See geysers erupt, colourful hot pools and steaming landscapes shaped by volcanic activity.

• 🛷 Ride the Skyline Luge (largest in NZ)
  One of the most fun activities in Rotorua, with multiple tracks going down the mountain and great views over the city.

• ⚽ Try ZORB (where it all started)
  Rotorua is the birthplace of zorbing. Roll down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball filled with water.

• 🔥 Experience a Māori cultural evening
  Enjoy traditional performances, storytelling and a hāngī meal cooked using geothermal heat.

• 🌿 See bubbling mud pools
  One of the most unique natural features in New Zealand, constantly moving and alive.

🧭 Explore More

• 🚴 Redwoods Forest (Whakarewarewa)
  Famous for walking and world-class mountain biking tracks among giant trees.

• ♨️ Relax in natural hot springs
  A great way to unwind after a day exploring.

• 🛶 Visit Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village
  A place where people still live using geothermal energy daily.

• 🚤 Lake activities (kayaking / boat tours)
  Explore the surrounding lakes and quieter natural areas.