Things to do in Rotorua

Activities, attractions and tours

A geothermal area with a green pool, an orange rim, and steam rising from the water.
A group of people standing on a wooden deck overlooking a misty waterfall.
A rope bridge in a forest with illuminated hanging lights.
A wooden boardwalk through a foggy marshland with trees in the background.
A geyser erupting with steam, surrounded by a rocky landscape and a crowd of spectators.

Things to do

Waiotapu: Thermal Park and Lady Knox Geyser Entry Ticket

Rotorua: Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park Entry Ticket

P1,724
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Rotorua: Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park Entry Ticket
Cambridge, Matamata, Waitomo: 1-Hour Ecological River Cruise

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

P5,187
per adult
Cambridge, Matamata, Waitomo: 1-Hour Ecological River Cruise
Polynesian Spa Rotorua: Deluxe Lake Spa Hot Spring Bathing

Polynesian Spa Rotorua: Deluxe Lake Spa Hot Spring Bathing

P2,997
per adult
Polynesian Spa Rotorua: Deluxe Lake Spa Hot Spring Bathing
Te Po Indigenous Evening Experience

Te Po Indigenous Evening Experience

P7,143
per adult
Te Po Indigenous Evening Experience
Agrodome Farm Experience including Farm Show and Farm Tour - Rotorua

Agrodome Farm Experience including Farm Show and Farm Tour - Rotorua

P2,393
per adult
Agrodome Farm Experience including Farm Show and Farm Tour - Rotorua
Redwoods Altitude High Ropes & Ziplines + Glowworms, Rotorua

Redwoods Altitude High Ropes & Ziplines + Glowworms, Rotorua

P5,102
per adult
Redwoods Altitude High Ropes & Ziplines + Glowworms, Rotorua
TRIPLE DEAL Wai-O-Tapu, Redwood Forest & Blue Springs Ex Auckland

TRIPLE DEAL Wai-O-Tapu, Redwood Forest & Blue Springs Ex Auckland

P13,373
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
TRIPLE DEAL Wai-O-Tapu, Redwood Forest & Blue Springs Ex Auckland
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Top places to visit

1. Polynesian Spa

Located adjacent to beautiful Lake Rotorua, the steaming baths of the Polynesian Spa are the perfect place to destress. Soak in steamy, cleansing water while you gaze out across the pristine lake. Escape to your very own private pool or play on the slides in the large family area.
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A serene hot spring surrounded by rocks and greenery, with a view of distant hills and a body of water.

2. Skyline Rotorua

Skyline Rotorua cable car carries passengers up Mount Ngongotaha to a height of 487 metres (1,598 feet). Admiring the views isn’t the only thing to do at the summit. Sip a coffee in the café, fly over dense forest on the zip line or steer down the steep luge course.
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A cable car with 'Skyline' written on it, flying over a town with a lake and hills in the background.

3. Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest

Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest is a tranquil woodland park crisscrossed by trekking and biking trails. Set off on a hike past thermal ponds and geysers or admire eucalyptus trees and immense Californian Redwoods while horseback riding.
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A rope bridge in a forest with illuminated hanging lights.

4. Mitai Maori Village

The Mitai Māori Village gives you and your family the chance to experience Māori food, art and traditions. The tours are not only educational, they are also very impressive and enjoyable.
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A canoe race with participants in traditional attire, surrounded by a forested area with spectators watching.

5. Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park

The purpose-built Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park takes a determined approach to wildlife protection and education. The conservation centre is a 9-hectare (22-acre) park that focuses on educating the public to assist in the repopulation of the illusive kiwi bird. Live bird shows, feeding sessions and a lake full of wild trout are combined with a breathtaking waterslide experience. Watch as kids play on the slide before dipping back into learning as they continue to explore the park.
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A sign for Rainbow Springs with a large frog illustration and text.

What to do in Rotorua

Stay near popular Rotorua attractions

A serene hot spring surrounded by rocks and greenery, with a view of distant hills and a body of water.

Polynesian Spa

8.8/10 (879 reviews)
Soak in Rotorua's legendary geothermal waters where acidic Priest Spring soothes muscles while alkaline Rachel Spring nourishes skin. Reserve a private lakeside pool at sunset for the ultimate therapeutic experience.
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Where to stay in Rotorua

Find the best Rotorua areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
A large, historic building with a central tower and multiple smaller towers, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and benches.
Photo by Phil Ostroff
Open Photo by Phil Ostroff

Inner City

While visiting Inner City, you might make a stop by sights like Tamaki Maori Village and Rotorua Central Mall.

A road lined with trees and a mountain in the background.

Fenton Street

One reason travelers love spending time in Fenton Street is the luxurious spas, and Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre is a top place to visit.

A church with a tall steeple and a large clock.

Ohinemutu

Spas and lake views are notable features of Ohinemutu. You might consider a stop by Lake Rotorua while you're exploring the neighborhood.

A geothermal area with a hot spring, steam rising from the ground, and a forested hillside in the background.
Photo by Umi Mostafa
Open Photo by Umi Mostafa

Whakarewarewa

The panoramic lake views and luxurious spas are just a few highlights of Whakarewarewa. Make a stop by Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village or Te Puia New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute while you're exploring the area.

A canoe with people paddling through a river surrounded by dense greenery.

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.

A beach with people, a caravan, and parked cars.

Lake Tarawera

A lush green valley with rolling hills, a winding road, and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Horohoro

A wooden pier extending into calm waters with mountains in the background.

Mourea

A river flowing through a dense forest with a waterfall.

Okere Falls

Frequently asked questions

Is Rotorua worth visiting?
Whether you want to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or try unique foods and explore in nature, there are many things to do in Rotorua.
How do I spend a day in Rotorua?
Once you've visited top attractions like Sulphur Point and Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre, spend some time discovering Rotorua's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Rotorua?
The top tourist attraction in Rotorua is Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Rotorua?
You can easily enjoy top attractions like Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre, Sulphur Point and Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre with a three-day stay in Rotorua. On average, many travelers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stick around longer and venture to Mourea.
Is Rotorua a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to do and see in Rotorua. Several attractions, such as Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre and Sulphur Point, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Rotorua's neighborhoods, Fenton Street is 0.97 kilometers away from downtown, while Glenholme is 2 kilometers away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Rotorua with kids?
Planning what to do in Rotorua with kids is easier than ever. Whether you have teenagers or little ones, there's a range of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them busy here.
What to do in Rotorua for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Rotorua, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Volcanic Hills Winery.
Are there free things to do in Rotorua?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Rotorua is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Sulphur Point is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.