Rotorua is like no other place on earth. Bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers and a stunning geothermal landscape make this a city of spirit. Visitors can explore active volcanoes, test their limits with adventure activities and enjoy the unspoiled native forests that cloak the land.

There are 14 publicly accessible lakes dotted throughout the region, sparkling and brimming with trout. Lake Rotorua is the largest lake in the district, with windsurfing, kayaking and trout fishing popular pastimes. Lake Rotoiti is connected to Lake Rotorua by the Ohau Channel and is popular for boating.

In the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley visitors can see New Zealand’s largest geyser, Pohutu (which can spout up to 30m), the Prince of Wales’ Feathers geyser, boiling mud pools and silica terraces. At Whakarewarewa Thermal Village there are carving and weaving schools where visitors can watch traditional craftspeople at work.

Rotorua also offers adventurous horse treks, scenic walks and hikes, and some of the best mountain biking in the world.

• Accommodation in Rotorua
• What to See & Do in Rotorua

Rotorua Feature

Green and Blue Lakes

Just south of Rotorua city are the Blue (Tikitapu) and Green (Rotokakahi) Lakes. You can peruse both lakes at a lookout that is situated between them. Tikitapu is popular with water skiers and boating enthusiasts, while Rotokakahi is tapu (sacred), which means it is out of bounds to people. more

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

HISTORY

Maori Culture

600 years ago the Te Arawa Maori first inhabited the region of Rotorua. Today Rotorua is a steaming wonderland of geothermal activity combined with fascinating cultural experiences and adventure tourism.

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ACTIVITY

Wining & Dining

Rotorua's number of eateries has multiplied substantially over the past two decades – from a traditional Maori hangi, through to fine dining and standard takeaway cuisine.

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ROAD TRIP

Great Kiwi Road Trips

Road trips are as much about the personality of the road as they are the people travelling them. Follow your adventuresome spirit into the sunset. Life’s a journey...take the scenic route.

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