20 Activities to Keep You Busy in Rotorua

Rotorua is well known for it's geothermal wonders and adrenaline-pumping activities, but did you know it's also a haven for mountain biking? Check out some of our top activity picks.

Geothermal Wonders

Kuirau Park - this park in the middle of town has steam vents, bubbling mud pools, and even hot pools to soak your feet in, all for free!

Sulphur Point - an easy walk from Government Gardens, this bird sanctuary is also a great place to observe sulphur vents right on the lake's edge.

Te Puia - home of the famous Pohutu Geyser and center for Maori cultural experiences.

Waimangu Volcanic Valley - walk through the valley for a variety of different geothermal features.

Wai O Tapu - a large geyser named Lady Knox lives here, as well as the well-photographed Champagne Pool.

Secret Spot - enjoy 45 minutes in a private hot tub in the secluded bush with bottle service at the press of a button.

Kerosene Creek - around 20 minutes drive from town, this is a free natural hot water springs you can soak in.

Polynesian Spa - one of the top 10 spas in the world, this is the ultimate relaxation spot complete with lakeside views.

Hell's Gate - one part geothermal park, one part hot springs and mud baths. Sound good to us!

 

Maori Culture Experiences

Tamaki Maori Village - Discover Maori art, traditions, rituals, and food.

Te Puia - Learn about Maori art, architecture, food, and culture. 

Mitai Maori Village - one of the most highly rated cultural experiences in New Zealand.

 

Walking and Mountain Biking

Whakarewarewa Redwoods Forest - full of excellent walking and MTB trails and accessible by bike.

Read more about Mountain biking in NZ 

Skyline Gravity Bike Park - take the Gondola to the top, enjoy a downhill mountain bike run, rinse and repeat!

Tarawera Trail - a 15km walking track around Lake Tarawera towards Hot Water Beach

 

Lakes and Watersports

Rafting - There are heaps of local rafting companies to choose from, offering a variety of grades depending on your adrenaline tolerance!

Boating - With 20 lakes to choose from, boaties, jetskiiers, biscuiters and the like can get their kicks. Trout fishing is also a popular past-time.

Paddling - Kayak and paddle board rental can help you enjoy the lakes sans motor.

 

Adrenaline

Canopy Tours - this is not your average ziplining experience! Learn about their conservation efforts under the canopy of native New Zealand forest, then challenge your fears by soaring above it. 

Zorb - jump in a giant inflatable ball (optional: filled with water!) and roll down a hill. Sounds fun!

Skyline Luge & Gondola - after a scenic gondola ride up the hill, try luging, zipling, or a skyswing to get your pulse racing.

Velocity Valley - try free-fall machines, jet-boating, bungy, swoop and more!

Off Road NZ - Karting and 4WD adventure activities.