Road Trip Around New Zealand: Rotorua

Introduction to Rotorua, New Zealand

Rotorua is located on New Zealand’s North Island, about a 3.5-hour drive from Auckland, and is regarded as the cultural and artistic heart of the Māori people. The city is also famous for its sulphur. Upon arrival, you will immediately notice the distinct sulphuric scent lingering in the air. I first visited Rotorua in October 2015, when the smell was particularly pungent—almost like “rotten eggs”—to the point where many locals had to keep their doors tightly shut. Fortunately, on my recent visit, the scent was far more subtle and only faintly noticeable. Beyond its geothermal character, Rotorua is also celebrated as the city of tulips. These vibrant flowers are planted throughout the city, from public parks to tree-lined avenues, painting the town with vivid seasonal colours.

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Top Attractions in Rotorua, New Zealand

Kuirau Park

This park truly captivated me with its steaming hot springs, pools, and geysers. The water isn’t just hot—it’s literally boiling. Falling in would feel like being scalded alive. What makes these geothermal pools remarkable is their variety of colours. Standing in one spot, you can witness an almost surreal landscape of steaming waters shimmering in hues that feel both magical and otherworldly.

Admission: Free

Lake Rotorua

As the second-largest lake on the North Island (after Lake Taupō), Lake Rotorua is unique in that its waters are not as cold as other New Zealand lakes, likely due to the influence of surrounding geothermal activity.

Rotorua Museum

Located just a short walk from the lake, the museum and adjacent park offer a perfect combination of culture and relaxation. Visitors can stroll around, enjoy the scenery, and take in the light sulphur-scented air without it being overwhelming.

Te Puia Geothermal Valley

Visiting the Te Puia Geothermal Valley offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore ancient geothermal pools, bubbling mud springs, and a rich diversity of native flora and fauna. The site also preserves Māori culture, including traditional arts and crafts such as wood carving and flax weaving. The Pohutu Geyser is the most famous attraction in Te Puia, erupting once or twice every hour with water jets reaching up to 30 meters in height.

Te Puia Geothermal Valley – a spectacular natural wonder in Rotorua

Ohinemutu Village

Ohinemutu Village is the ancestral home of the Ngāti Whakaue tribe and was the centre of Rotorua in the 1870s. Today, the villagers continue to maintain a strong sense of community while preserving traditional cultural values.

Ohinemutu – a peaceful and welcoming village

Visitors to Ohinemutu will experience the genuine hospitality of the locals, who warmly welcome tourists and guide them through the village’s cultural highlights. Nestled along the shores of Lake Rotorua, the village offers a serene and refreshing atmosphere.

Whakarewarewa Village

Whakarewarewa is known as a Māori village and the homeland of the Tuhourangi and Ngāti Wahiao tribes, who have lived on the island for centuries. Visitors can enjoy traditional cultural performances, including the famous Haka dance. Don’t forget to sample the traditional Hangi meals, cooked using the natural heat from geothermal springs.

Whakarewarewa Village – a harmonious blend of homes and lush greenery

Whakarewarewa Forest

Exploring Whakarewarewa Forest is a captivating experience not to be missed. The forest features towering California redwoods and giant fern groves that amaze visitors with their size. The atmosphere is tranquil and refreshing, with diverse vegetation and the characteristic vitality of a rainforest.

Whakarewarewa Forest – majestic redwoods stretching skywards

According to MIA.vn travel guides, the forest was also a filming location for the 2016 movie Pete’s Dragon, making it a magical spot for fans of the film to imagine mystical creatures hidden among the trees.

Polynesian Spa

Located by Lake Rotorua, Polynesian Spa is a highly popular resort. Visitors can enjoy luxurious spaces, premium services, and professional hospitality.

Polynesian Spa – a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation

The spa features 28 mineral pools fed by two natural hot springs, offering relaxation and skin-nourishing benefits. It also alleviates muscle aches and fatigue. Polynesian Spa offers diverse therapy treatments and ranks among the world’s top 10 spas, attracting many famous athletes for rest, relaxation, and wellness.

Hells Gate Geothermal Reserve & Mud Spa

Hells Gate is one of New Zealand’s most beloved geothermal hot springs. Mineral-rich mud is harvested from natural mud pools and processed to retain beneficial nutrients for the body. Bathing in the mud nourishes the skin, relaxes the body, and boosts overall health. Visitors can also admire exquisite Māori wood carvings and learn about their unique culture.

Hells Gate – a one-of-a-kind mud bathing experience

Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge

Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge offers a variety of thrilling experiences. Visitors can ride mountain bikes along Gravity Park trails, try the Zoom Zipline or Sky Swing for panoramic city views, or visit the Volcanic Hills Winery and Tasting Room to enjoy premium wines.

Skyline Rotorua – the ultimate adventure and sightseeing hub

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Wai-O-Tapu is another stunning geothermal park not to be missed. Covering 18 km², it includes New Zealand’s largest mud pool, volcanic crater lakes, and the famous Lady Knox Geyser. Located about 30 minutes from central Rotorua, Wai-O-Tapu offers unforgettable experiences for visitors.

Wai-O-Tapu – a tropical wonderland of geothermal beauty

Kaituna River Rafting

Rafting along the Kaituna River is an exhilarating adventure through 14 powerful rapids, culminating in three waterfalls. Guided tours provide insights into Māori history and legends linked to the river. Safety measures, including life jackets and equipment, are fully provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Kaituna River – a thrilling white-water adventure

Travel Tip

A small insider’s tip: You don’t really need to purchase tickets for commercial hot spring baths in Rotorua. Most hotels in the city are already equipped with hydrotherapy pools filled with natural mineral water. These geothermal waters are not only soothing but also renowned for easing skin conditions and relieving muscle pain.

✨ Wishing you a wonderful trip to Rotorua!

SEE More : Road Trip Around New Zealand: A Visit to Taupo and Huka Falls

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