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Destination Rotorua | Rotorua Travel Guide

Famous for smelling like egg, Rotorua's reputation preceeds itself but everyone who visits always looks beyond the smell to appreciate Rotorua as one cool destination in New Zealand. Rotorua is a place of two extremes, you challenge yourself further than ever before with the adventure, adrenaline sports on offer and then channel your inner goddess by cleansing the soul and skin in one of either geothermal pools or natural mud pools. Another natural phenomenon in New Zealand the geological history behind Rotorua adds to its's charm, visitors to the area will find themselves walking amongst explosive geysers, dormant volcanoes and geothermal pools.

An area of natural beauty Rotorua is home to 16 lakes all available to be explored as well as a distinct cultural feel, which is the reason Rotorua is known as one of the top places in New Zealand to experience and learn about Maori history and culture. Rotorua, really does everything you need from a destination, from adventure, wildlife, nightlife, relaxation and that all important 'x' factor. Rotorua is all about indulgence, so do the things you've always wanted to try, spend the time doing nothing, sample all the fine local produce and enjoy yourself.


Rotorua Attractions & Activities

Free things to do:

  1. Take a long walk around one of Rotorua's 16 lakes.
  2. Relax in Kuirau Geothermal Park & Pools.
  3. Go for a refreshing swim in Lake Tikitapu
  4. Try your hand at bird spotting in Hamurana Springs.

Things to do under $20:

  1. Hire a mountain bike and explore The Redwoods.
  2. Visit the nearby Buried Village to learn about Maori Culture and New Zealand history.
  3. Wander round the Rotorua Museum of Art & History.
  4. Chill out at the Waikite Valley Thermal Pools.
  5. Hit the Luge Tracks at twilight. Spend an hour racing in a 3 wheel cart at dusk.

Things to do over $20

  1. Skydive.
  2. ZORB - the ultimate activity in New Zealand
  3. White Water Raft the 7m Kaituna waterfall.
  4. Try your hand (or full body weight) at white water sledging.
  5. Take a boat cruise in the Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
  6. Treat yourself at one of Rotorua's famous Spa's.
More Rotorua Attractions & Activities

Rotorua Restaurants & Bars

Good places to eat:

  • Fat Dog Cafe & Bar.
  • Tandoori Palace.
  • Relish.
  • Joe's Diner.

Good places to drink:

  • Pig & Whistle.
  • The Vic.
  • O'Malleys.

Rotorua History

Rotorua and its many lakes was founded and settled in by Maori of the Te Arawa iri and is now considered the heartland of Maori culture in New Zealand. Rotorua's potential as a spa was noticed early on in 1883 and in order to preserve the area a special town district was established but in 1886 Mount Tarawera erupted changing the face of Rotorua forever. Not only did the explosion kill over 100 people and bury a village, many of Rotorua's lakes and landscapes were altered due to the eruption, rocks and ash. Rotorua started to really grow and open up to tourism in the late 1890's after a railway link was built between Auckland and Rotorua. This railway link allowed visitors to easily access this unique area and it's imfamous protected spa's.