Visit Western Heights
Popular places to visit

Skyline Rotorua
Take in the splendid scenery during a gondola ride and jump in a luge cart to navigate your way down the exciting mountain track.

Polynesian Spa
Set among the serene Government Gardens on the shores of Lake Rotorua, these hot pools are an idyllic place to relax and unwind.

Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
Walk, cycle or ride a horse through this picturesque forest filled with a magnificent array of trees from around the world.

Eat Street
During your trip to Rotorua, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Eat Street.

Mitai Maori Village
For a great insight into Māori customs and way of life, sign up for this magical, entertaining and educational cultural experience.

Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village
You can find out about the history of Rotorua with a trip to Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.
Things to do

Mitai Maori Village Cultural Experience in Rotorua

Cambridge, Matamata, Waitomo: 1-Hour Ecological River Cruise

Rafting Rotorua: Kaituna River White Water Experience

National Kiwi Hatchery - Kiwi Encounter Guided Tour

Rotorua: Redwoods Altitude High Ropes Adventure

Agrodome Farm Experience including Farm Show and Farm Tour - Rotorua
Top hotels in Western Heights

Rydges Rotorua
Fabulous experience - great team and location!
Reviewed on Jan 3, 2026

Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Well located hotel, 2 min walk to Polynesian Spa. On-site parking. We loved the indoor-outdoor heated swimming pool, and the restaurant offers a nice buffet breakfast. Enjoyed a nice dinner in the hotel restaurant, which was very quiet.
Reviewed on Jan 5, 2026

Ramada Resort By Wyndham Rotorua Marama
Great price and wonderful stay.
Reviewed on Dec 31, 2025

Pullman Rotorua
The place was clean and tidy, and well looked after.
Reviewed on Nov 30, 2025

Arawa Park Hotel
Good location with downtown area within 5 minute drive. Other sites such as the geothermal sites and gondola/luge/zorb are within about 15 minute drive. The room was spacious. A couch would have fit easily and would have been helpful. The hotel is dated and could use some deep cleaning and upgrading. ...
Reviewed on Dec 30, 2025

Sudima Lake Rotorua
Everything was lovely except for the strong sulfur smell.
Reviewed on Jan 3, 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Western Heights

Fairy Springs
If you're spending some time in Fairy Springs, Skyline Rotorua and Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park are top sights worth seeing.

Mangakakahi
When in Mangakakahi, you can plan a visit to Kuirau Park and Eat Street, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Koutu
If you're spending some time in Koutu, Lake Rotorua and Tribal Lights Cultural Theatre are top sights worth seeing.

Kawaha Point
River views, spas, and restaurants highlight some of the notable features of Kawaha Point. Make a stop by Lake Rotorua while you're exploring.

Utuhina
While Utuhina isn't home to many top sights, Kuirau Park and Rotorua Central Mall are some notable places to visit nearby.

Hillcrest
While Hillcrest might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Rotorua International Stadium and Rotorua Central Mall.


