Home to some of the most amazing earth forces, Rotorua is the spiritual home of New Zealand’s indigenous people, the Maori, making it both a geothermal wonder and a cultural and adventure playground. One of New Zealand’s favourite holiday destinations, Rotorua is surrounded by numerous rivers, crystal springs and 16 major lakes, including the stunningly beautiful Lake Okareka.
Visitors will find many things to see and do here; like golf, mountain biking, forest walks, four-wheeling, scenic flights, boat trips, fishing, hunting, sailing, relaxing spa treatments and shopping.
Paddle your way on a kayak through the diverse coastline of New Zealand. Guided tours are available, or take a leisurely ride and take in the amazing lush green of the country while testing your strength through the water while getting up close with nature and wildlife.
Strap in, buckle up, and hold onto your seat as you pound through the waves on a jet boat ride taking you powering through narrow river gorges, almost brushing against sheer rock faces and through banks of braided rivers.
Walking on New Zealand's only live marine volcano, White Island, is like walking on the moon. It is one of the most fascinating and accessible volcanoes on earth, estimated to be between 100,000 and 200,000 years old. Hear it hissing, steaming and bubbling, and view the yellow and white sulphur crystals, growing amongst a place where virtually no vegetation survives.
Trek through an unspoiled natural landscape with spectacular scenery. Make your way through alpine forests and take thrill rides through pine, redwoods, eucalyptus and fir trees. Head to Whakarewarewa Forest, an exquisite backdrop to the city of Rotorua that offers 43 miles of trails.
Get ready to roll. Literally. Tumble down a hill in a large, inflatable globe and feel the beat of your heart as you experience a ride in a Zorbonaut. Rotorua is home to the iconic New Zealand brand Zorb, made popular from the thrill ride called Zorbing – an incredibly unique New Zealand adventure activity.
Feel your pulse race on an adrenaline pumping adventure that will drive you to the absolute limit on an off-road 4WD adventure. A fast and fun activity made for adrenaline junkies, thrill seekers, and vehicle enthusiasts.
Discover the great stories of the Rotorua region through innovative exhibitions at the Rotoura Museum of Art and History. Learn about the rich culture, volatile landscape and legendary figures that have shaped this fascinating region. Galleries feature locally curated exhibitions of art, photography, and Taonga artifacts of the Maori culture.
Taste distinctive wines from the vibrant varietal flavors of New Zealand wines. Stylish and attractive wineries have become landmarks in this part of the country. The vines are warmed by sunlight during the day and cooled at night by sea breezes, making this slow-ripening period producing some of the finest wines in the world.
Sculptured out of volcanic activity and thousands of years in the making, Wai-O-Tapu is considered to be New Zealand's most colourful and diverse geothermal sightseeing attraction. You will be introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand.
Visit the land of the hobbits, a truly unique look into the private farmland where the movie Lord of the Rings was filmed. Two-hour guided tours are available at Hobbit on Movie Set in Matamata, an hour's drive from Rotorua.
