Rotorua is like nowhere else. A geothermal wonderland situated near the centre of New Zealand’s North Island, it’s a playground for adventure seekers, an opportunity for cultural understanding, and a place to relax and heal. From adventure to culture, relaxation to adrenaline, there are so many incredible things to do in Rotorua New Zealand
If you have never been or are planning your first visit to NZ, we highly recommend you make time to see some of the Rotorua attractions.
Come for an adventure like whitewater rafting, rolling downhill in a giant ball, ziplining, bungy or a treetop walk. Or, take the opposite approach and soak your cares away in the healing thermal waters, or just visit the geothermal fields and stare in awe and wonderment at the huge geysers or bubbling mud pools.
Rotorua is also a place to discover and immerse yourself in Maori culture.
It is one of the world’s most unique places to visit; fun, exciting, or relaxing, there are plenty of things to do in Rotorua. And you will know when you arrive, as there is a distinctive smell of sulphur in the air that oddly seems to dissipate to my senses in about 10 – 15 minutes.
Top activities in Rotorua
- Test your courage at luge, rafting, zipline, zorb or any of the activities at Velocity Valley
- Stare in wonder at a geothermal park
- Walk across the treetops
- Immerse yourself in Maori culture
- Experience a working farm in Rotorua and see more breeds of sheep than you knew existed
- Relax at a healing spa
- Savour a local wine
Visiting Rotorua from a cruise excursion?
If you are exploring New Zealand via cruise ship it is the port of Tauranga that will get you to Rotorua. Be sure to check out our complete guide to the cruise port in Tauranga.Rotorua is also a great stop if you are on an Auckland to Wellington road trip.
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Things do in Rotorua for the adrenaline junkie
Rotorua Rafting ©Joel McDowell/proved by Destination Rotorua;
Zipline provided by Rotorua Canopy Tours.
All used with permission.
Skyline Luge (and gondola)
Set on a scenic track upon the volcanic cone of Mount Ngongotaha, the Skyline Gondola ride up to the luge is half the fun. Alternatively, you could hike to the top. Either way, it’s one of the exciting things to do in Rotorua.
Helmets on, we took the scenic track for our first run. A chairlift brought us back up, and our second luge was on the faster intermediate track. Speed and control make Skyline luge an ideal family-friendly activity. Note that children under 110cm ride tandem with an adult.
Historically, it’s the world’s first gravity-fueled three-wheeled luge ride, and it was designed in Rotorua in 1985. Get tickets for the gondola plus 5 luge rides from Klook.
Before you take the gondola back down, check out some of the other extreme options up at the top. When you are ready to relax, enjoy wine tasting at Volcanic Hills (see below) or one of the biggest and most elaborate buffets we have seen at StratosFare. Both options offer stunning views that will encourage you to linger. Note that StratosFare is open for lunch and dinner, takes bookings, and has a standard of dress that is smart casual.
Velocity Valley
Adventure junkies, this place was built for you! Here you will find (each with age and weight restrictions):
- Agrojet: This jet boat is the world’s first commercial jetsprint reaching speeds of 100km/h and 3 G-force.
- Freefall Xtreme: Flip and fly as you experience 1.5 minutes in the wind tunnel with wind speeds up to 220kp/h. (For comparison, a 12,000-foot skydive has about 45- 75 seconds of freefall).
- V-Force – A reverse bungy launching you 45 metres into the air at up to 80km/h with 4.6 G-force.
- Swoop – a giant bungy swing (see photo above). You will ‘swoop’ from 0 to 130km/h in 1 second.
- Shweeb Racer – This is the world’s only pedal-powered monorail track.
Rotorua Rafting – Grade 5 whitewater adventure with a waterfall drop
Voted #2 in Tripadvisors 25 Best Tourism Experiences in the World in 2021
A pretty impressive ranking; how can you pass up an activity voted the second-best in the world? As your guide takes you over the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, you will understand why visitors love this adventure.
And if that’s not enough, you will enjoy impressive views along the mighty Kaituna River, learn about the rich Maori history, and experience grade 5 rapids. Check for discounts at Bookme.
Rotorua Canopy Tours – zipline over the trees
Voted #11 in Tripadvisors 25 Best Tourism Experiences in the World in 2021
Another of the adventurous things to do at Rotorua is to soar through New Zealand’s ancient forest on a zipline adventure with Rotorua Canopy Tours. This eco-tour is an exhilarating opportunity to see this beautiful land the way it once was.
Importantly, a portion of each ticket is invested in conservation. Get below the surface, above the trees, learn about the past, and become part of the future. Check for discounts on Bookme
Zorb – roll downhill in a giant bubble ball
The sensation is hard to define.
Imagine being inside a giant two-layer bubble sphere and rolling downhill. We opted to keep dry (DRYGO), which resulted in a slightly slower ride. A second option, H2OGO, has participants sitting directly in the warm water inside the ball.
Either way, as the ball rolls, the rider remains at the bottom, sometimes almost unaware of the movement, other times sliding around as they roll, either way, laughing with excitement the whole way down.
OGO Zorb is home to the world’s longest, steepest and fastest downhill ball-rolling tracks, making it one of the more unique things to do in Rotorua. Check prices and choose your Zorb option.
What to do in Rotorua: geothermal viewing
Although there are few spots to choose from, we like to visit them all as we have never been able to choose a favourite from the geothermal activities in Rotorua.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Geothermal pools can, and frequently are, hot enough to burn badly. Do NOT dip your feet or hands in to test the temperature of the water. Temperatures can change over time, so take extra caution in unmonitored areas.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley – unspoilt beauty
If you are looking to absorb yourself in an untouched, young, and ever-changing landscape, this is it. The eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886 (New Zealand’s largest recorded volcanic eruption) created the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, also called the Tarawera Rift. It created lakes, changed the landscape, covered the famous Pink and White Terraces, and left a clean slate for nature to rebuild.
Understanding history makes the experience stronger, so be sure to reference the leaflet that is provided when you enter. The main walking trail is about 4km and leads from the visitor centre to Lake Rotomahana. From here, we opted to take the boat and further explore from the water.
There is a shuttle bus option to the lake that makes several stops along the way. Check for discounts from Bookme and enjoy a self-guided visit.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland – colours I didn’t know existed in nature
Formed from volcanic activity dating back 160,000 years, Wai-O-Tapu Volcanic Wonderland is a surreal, mystical place enhanced by rising steam and nature’s dreamlike palette of colours. Visitors walk on boardwalks and paths through the Wai-O-Tapu Wonderland, passing collapsed craters, boiling pools of mud or water, colourful mineral deposits, a forest, and steaming fumaroles.
The craters range in size, with the largest measuring 50m (164 ft) in diameter and up to 20m (65 ft) deep. The pools and lakes are even larger.
Lady Knox Geyser
Lady Knox is one of the most well-known of the Rotorua attractions. It’s a natural geyser that gets a bit of help waking up every morning at 10.15. Its exciting history began in 1901 when prisoners were cleaning their laundry. Their soap reduced the water’s surface tension, resulting in the geyser’s eruption. Today, a bit of a similar soap is added every morning, the result being a geyser worth visiting.
Entrance is included with your passes to Wai-O-Tapu, although it is about 3km away with its own car park.
Kuirau Park – see geothermal activity for free
Right in the centre of town, Kuirau Park is New Zealand’s only geothermal public park.
It’s one of the best free attractions in Rotorua, and it offers the opportunity to see steaming and bubbling geothermal activity. It’s perfect if you are trying to figure out what to do in Rotorua on a budget.
Active things to do in the Rotorua redwoods
Whether day or night, from the ground or the up in the trees, the Whakarewarewa redwood forest is another of New Zealand’s special places. There is something so peaceful about walking among the big trees.
During the day, it is my escape. I can choose from one of 6 main trails, with coloured trail markers so I don’t’ get lost physically, although often lost in my own thoughts.
Set your GPS for the Redwood Tree Walk, as the isite and trailhead markers are all here.
Redwood Treewalk – travel across the treetops
A unique mix of nature and adventure, the Redwood Treewalk is an opportunity to view Rotorua’s Redwood forest from 6 – 12m (20-39ft) above the ground. We chose the Redwood Nightlights, taking the 23 suspension bridges after dark, looking out over a forest colourfully lit by 30 lanterns and 40 colour spots. Unique, serene, and one of the magical Rotorua activities, I only wish I had walked both day and night, as I imagine the daytime walk feels completely different.
Everyone moves in the same direction through the 600-metre tree walk. Each viewing platform surrounds a 117+-year-old Redwood tree, has interpretive signage and is a resting point between two bridges. Check for discount entry here
Redwood Altitude – a more extreme option
During the day, there is an additional option of Redwood Altitude that includes the bridges and spirals plus a guide, an additional 7 metres of height, and three flying foxes. Check for discounts on here or bring the family with this ticket option.
From their website, “As an eco-tourism business located in Rotorua’s iconic Redwoods Forest, the treewalk has been entrusted by Manu Whenua, and we unreservedly work as guardians of the land and forest we operate in.”
Cultural things to do in Rotorua
Rotorua is deeply rooted in Māori history, culture, and legend. From angry gods boiling the earth to love stories, the area is vital to New Zealand’s history. Much of the sacred lands in the region are shared with visitors by the Ngāti Pikiao, Tūhourangi, and Ngāti Whakaue iwi (tribes).
Experience the culture with one of these inspiring things to do in Rotorua:
- Whakarewarewa Maori Village
Whakarewarewa is where, nearly 20 years ago, we got our first real introduction to Maori culture and a living geothermal Maori village. Therefore it will always be a favourite of ours. It is also home to the Pohutu geyser, steam vents, and boiling mud pools. Check for discounted geothermal walking trails entry or guided tours. - Mitai Maori Village
This was our choice on our last visit. Our evening at Mitai Maori Village began with the unearthing of our traditional hangi dinner. Cooked in the earth, the kumara (Māori sweet potato), potatoes, chicken, and lamb were impressively tender and flavorful. We also walked through the village, learned about the sacred spring, watched traditionally dressed warriors paddle a waka (war canoe) downstream, and saw eels, trout, and glow worms. However, the evening’s highlight is an exceptionally well-done cultural performance. Reserve your evening cultural experience at the Mitai Maori Village here - Tamaki Maori Village Experience
Tamaki Māori Village is the most award-winning cultural attraction in New Zealand, which says a lot. Discover the origins of the Maori people and their journey to New Zealand. As we walked the grounds, we discovered customs and were captivated by storytellers. We learned poi, haka and more. Then, a feast. - Te Puia Maori Cultural Experience
A hangi-style dinner option, Te Puia is uniquely situated to see the majestic Pohutu Geyser and other geothermal sights in their natural state under the moonlight. It features a ‘Geyser By Night’ multi-sensory experience. A variety of optional Te Puia discounts are available here.
Ohinemutu – experience a living Māori village (free)
Ohinemutu Māori Village is home to the Ngāti Whakaue tribe that initially arrived in New Zealand around 1350 AD. It’s a significant piece of Rotorua’s history, and it is free to visit or opt for a guided tour.
Principal structures include a church, carvings, an outdoor bathing shed, steam vents used for cooking, a Marae (meeting house) with an exterior of incredibly intricate and beautiful carvings (not open to the public), and St Faith’s Church with a Tudor-style exterior and a Māori influenced interior.
Mountain Jade
Much more than just a retail store, Mountain Jade took us on a journey from understaning the significance of the pounamu (New Zealand jade) to its uses and the meanings behind each of the main carving designs. There’s a fascinating daily tour option at 10am that not only explores a bit of history, it takes visitors into the carving room to meet the talented artists, learn from them, and watch them at their craft. Reserve your tour here.
If you don’t take the tour, there is a constant play video outside the carving room where you can learn some of what you missed, and you can watch the artists at work through the glass.
Experience a working farm in Rotorua
Agrodome Rotorua
Agriculture is New Zealand’s number one industry, and sheep outnumber people by 7 to 1. Agrodome gives visitors a chance to experience a real working farm with its famous farm show and farm tours. We did both. While aimed at tourists, it’s on of the more informative and entertaining things to do in Rotorua. Reserve your farm tour and show here.
- Agrodome farm show
As we were introduced to 19 breeds of sheep, working dogs, and a cow, we learned which sheep are predominantly used for wool (Merino), carpet (Drysdale), meat (Romney), and more.
Audience involvement is encouraged. (Tip: sit near the front if you want to volunteer.) Volunteers are invited up on the stage to bottle-feed baby lambs (children) or milk a cow (adults). For an overdose of adorable, be sure to see the baby animals in the nursery. - Agrodome farm tour
We toured a portion of the 350-acre farm in an open carriage tram with stops to feed sheep and alpaca or to sample honey and kiwifruit juice. Then we passed through olive, kiwifruit and feijoa orchards as well as seeing emu, ostrich, miniature ponies, donkeys, llamas, and the Clydesdale horses used in The Lord of the Rings movies.
Relaxing in Rotorua
Two of the popular ways to relax in Rotorua are to soak in the healing spring waters at one of many locations or to enjoy a wine tasting.
NOTE: It is always advised to keep your head above water in Rotorua thermal pools.
Waikite Thermal Pools
We soaked away our cares in the warm healing waters at Waikite Thermal Pools. Our entry fee included six pools ranging in temperature from 32c – 40c (90f – 104f). My favourite was an infinity pool overlooking the steaming valley. The soak was relaxing, the view surreal, and the mineral water left my skin soft and smooth. Private pools are available for an extra fee.
Before you leave, check out the Eco-Trail at Waikite Valley, a fascinating and colourful under 10-minute walk leading to a hot spring that has the largest discharge of boiling water in New Zealand, discharging at a rate of between 40 – 50 litres per second at a temperature of 98°c. Get an entry ticket to Waikite Thermal Pools here.
Polynesian Spa Hot Pools
This award-winning Polynesian Spa is possibly the most famous in Rotorua. Sources from two natural springs, there are 28 hot mineral pools, including both acidic and alkaline pools. Reserve your often discounted entry to Polynesian Spa’s Deluxe Lake Spa here or the (adult and young adult only) Pavilion Pools here.
Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa
The famous mud spa, known for its healing properties, makes for some really fun photos. At Hell’s Gate, you will find sulphur mineral water pools as well as the mud bath. You’ll leave feeling fresh and rejuvenated. You can also take a guided or self-guided tour.
Check prices for park entry with our without mud spa or mud bath and spa only
Volcanic Hills wine tasting
It was the combination of endless views over Lake Rotorua and the chance to sample the wines that New Zealand is famous for producing that enticed us to Volcanic Hills Tasting Room.
The five wines we sampled are Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough Pinot Gris, Gisborne Chardonnay, Wairarapa Pinot Noir, and a Central Otago SV Pinot Noir.
Optional food items can be ordered to complement your wine tasting.
Read next: 14 Best New Zealand Hot Springs – relax, soak, unwind
Where to stay in Rotorua
We have two favourite places to stay in Rotorua. Both are clean, comfortable, lovely and in good locations, but sometimes we want that extra bit of luxury we get from the 5-star Pullman.
Pullman Rotorua
Our superior king room felt much larger that it appears in the photo, as there is lots room behind me, the photographer. Also, our moderate view of the lake can’t be seen from the angle I shot the room.
Most importantly, the huge bed was luxuriously comfortable, and sleep there came easily. We barely had time to turn on the huge flat screen TV (which had Chromecast options, a nice little bonus feature), or to enjoy our setee or table and chair.
The huge mirror in the bathroom area lights up and the rain shower was a lovely treat.
Service was outstanding and quick, with our few requests responded to immediately, including in/out valet car service (this is an extra charge). We opted for the bed and breakfast option, and the buffet looked amazing, with everything from hot food like bacon, eggs, and beans to a wall of doughnuts, plus made-to-order omelettes. There is a gluten-free section, and they were well-equipped to handle my coeliac diet. Reserve you stay at the Pullman Rotorua here.
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
When our goal is a good night’s sleep in a clean, uncluttered room with friendly staff while still keeping an eye on the budget, then we will choose the Novotel in Rotorua. The unpretentious rooms hold surprises like a feather-top mattress, huge plush bath towels, fair trade amenities, and USB wall outlets. Reserve your stay at Novotel Rotorua Lakeside Here.
Save on your NZ trip with these resources
These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.
- Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
- Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), Bookabach (self-contained in NZ), or Hostelworld (budget). See all our personal favourite NZ hotels here.
- Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
- Motorcycles: we have heard good things about BikesBooking.
- Campervans or Motorhomes: we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
- Activity discounts: we check Bookme.com for discounts of up to 70% on activities.
- Private guides: we do have a go-to when we hire a private guide.
- Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.
Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel. And don’t forget to download our free New Zealand packing list when you sign up for our newsletter.
Save for later
Have you figured out what to do in Rotorua? Either way, please share this page on social media, and save it for later on Pinterest:
What will you do when you visit Rotorua?
For more on New Zealand, start here: New Zealand Road Trips: Itineraries for North or South Island Adventures, or you might like …
Disclaimer: We worked with Destination Rotorua, the local tourism board. We were provided with complimentary entrances, tours and sample items to assist in the writing of this review. The opinions expressed here are strictly our own.
Nancy
Sights like this are hard for me to comprehend. Our world is a constant source of mind-boggling amazement.
Travel Tuesday
Great shots of Rotorua, Rhonda. Brought back many happy memories of our visits there.
Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields
I am pretty sure I have that same photo of the Champagne Pool. It is wonderfully photogenic. We usually stay at Taupo when we visit the area but maybe we’ll give Rotorua a try next time.
Stephanie
Wow, so amazing with lots to do there in Rotorua. Stunning photos along with very detailed information for each area. The Wai-O-Tapu Volcanic Wonderland with its colors is a photographers dream. The thermal pools are also so inviting. New Zealand is high on my bucket list and I will definitely use this as a good plan. Pinned for later use and thanks for sharing!
California Globetrotter
Omgosh that active junkies section is awesome! That Skyline Luge and the Redwood Treetop look like so much fun!!! I definitely saved this for a future visit! We really need to start adding in more activities when we travel rather than just city guides!
Paul Pietrangelo
Hi Rhonda. I’ve had a problem with the link to my blog so this is the new one if you’d like to visit me on my blog.
https://cruisinpaul.blogspot.com/
See ya.
Cruisin Paul
dee Nambiar
The geothermal areas look so inviting!!
Great photographs!
Joanne | Travel Visa Australia
They will be really useful for my future trip to NZ. Thank you! Photos are inspiring too!
Julie luek
Is there access for mobility scooters on the island as I not able to walk and it is very difficult get around. Its lovely views.
Carol
There’s adventure, geothermal wonders, and culture in Rotorua. We were in Auckland last August. And it is only a 3-hour drive!!! Bummer.
Sharon
My number one activity would be the gondola ride! Not too risky but so fun. I love all those kinds of sheep — and the alpacas. Visiting Roturua would certainly be an adventure!
Handmade Jewelry Haven
I have DEFINATELY decided to do the Downhill Ball Rolling thing!
That looks like SO MUCH FUN!
Thanks for sharing!
This was a great post.
– Lisa
Lady Fi
So much fun!
Marie
Managed to see and do a few of the things you mentioned. A highlight of my visit to New Zealand.
Jim, Sydney, Australia
Looks like there’s heaps to do there.
Photo Cache
So many things to do and see!
stevebethere
What a great place looks like some fun too had to smile at you in the thermal pools and Jeff on the Skyline Luge heheh!
Have a tanfastical week Rhonda 🙂
Carol
What a gorgeous place to visit!
shere
I knew about the lunge, but I’ve never heard about OGO before. Seems like a lot of fun, but I’m not sure if I would do it (I suffer from claustrophobia). We also did the hangi dinner. It was delicious, I would recommend it to everyone going to Rotorua.
Wendy Elliott
We were there in 2017 for 3 days. We did a couple of the things you mention, but also some very different activities. Just shows that there is so much to do there. We loved our 8 weeks in New Zealand.
Jill Chapman
Passing this on to my daughter as she is headed to New Zealand for her first time in a few months. Looks like a wonderful place to visit – wish I was going, too!
Jean Stringam
What a wonderful help for potential visitors to New Zealand. I’m planning a few months on the island in the foreseeable future and your blog will be a continuing resource. Thanks so much
Lois Alter Mark
WOW! New Zealand is high on my bucket list, and I think it just moved up a spot or two. I’m not a big adventurer – although that luge looks like so much fun – but I am all about those thermal waters, the food and that gorgeous scenery!
Kemkem
Amazing and gorgeous place with plenty of things to do. I am not too big on the outdoorsy stuff, but l got excited when l saw the wine tasting! Yep!!! That would be for me.
beatravelling
I liked Rotorua a lot! Just had allocated too little time for this place 🙁 Didn’t know there was a tree walk at the redwoods. Just stopped by shortly on a free snapshot tour.
Amy Franks
oh yes, the Wai-o-tapu pools were awesome, we loved seeing them spit and boil. We didn’t go into the buried village though, that was a bit pricey for us.
Anda
What a beautiful place, Rhonda! The more I read your guides the more I want to come visit New Zealand. So many great things to do in Rotorua. I think I prefer the thermal pools and the wine tasting over the other more adventurous things (like luge).I’d love to explore the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. It seems like the perfect place for hiking and photography.
Priya Florence Shah
My brother lives in Auckland and he’s been recommending Rotorua a lot. I can see why. Those swans look really content, too.
Rhonda Albom
When you visit your brother, be sure he takes you to Rotorua. Plus, here are a few things to do in his (and my) town: 75 Free and Nearly Free Things to Do in Auckland New Zealand
Anisa
I actually had no heard of Rotorua before, but it looks great especially for adrenaline junkies. That luge looks fun, I don’t think I have ever seen anything like it. Nice that you can do wine tasting too, one of my favorite activities.
Rhonda Albom
The wine was beautiful and we learned so much there, perfect for after the luge, and the views are amazing.
carolyn eddie
Wow!!! Just pinned this as I am sure many have….looks amazing! Thank you for sharing.
Ericka @ A Quiet Girl's Musings...
I had the great privilege to visit Rotorua about ten years ago and reading your post brought back so many memories of my visit there. I rode down the mountain on the luge; stayed overnight in a Morae, ate hangi, and learned some Maori dances; visited Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland; and saw all the sheep at Agrodome. It was such a cool area and I have very fond memories of it. If I ever make it back there, I’d like to ride in that OGO, go zip lining, and do some white water rafting.
Rhonda Albom
What an honour to spend the night at the marae. There is plenty that is new from 10 years ago, but all the classics still remain – and the nature, well that will always be there, we hope.
Emily S
What gorgeous views! I would love to get to New Zealand some day!
Lydia C. Lee
That looks fun. I really want to try zorbing but I am a bit scared!! Getting too old! (the hot springs might be more my style 😉
Katherine
The Waikite Thermal Pools pictures are gorgeous! I never knew that there was so much to do in Rotorua. I’m guilty of only knowing something about Tar Pits around there? I blame Tony Martin for that.
Rhonda Albom
Even I was surprised by just how much there is to do in Rotorua, and I live only 3.5 hours away. Honestly, I can’t wait to go back, and yes those thermal pools will be near the top of my first stop list. (We have been to the La Brea Tar Pits if that’s the ones you are referencing)>
Maureen
Wow. What an amazingly comprehensive guide. I’ve never heard of Rotorua before but was intrigued by the article. Really surprising how many spring there are and you are right about not just jumping in. The luge rides look fabulous and the night treehouse walk looks amazing. Is it really buggy?
Rhonda Albom
Interesting question, and one I hadn’t thought about. I never saw a mosquito, or really any annoying insects while in Rotorua, but it is winter in New Zealand.
Marquita
This seems like a really cool place! I really want to see that Geysir. It looks so cool!
Rhonda Albom
The geyser is every morning at about 10.15, so it’s easy to schedule around.
Clarice / Camping for Women
OMG! This place is really fun and wonderful. There are lots of things to do. Too bad we are booked for Australia for our next vacation. We were actually thinking of New Zealand too but thought we won’t have many things to do in NZ. Will definitely consider Rotorua during our next trip.
Rhonda Albom
Australia is pretty awesome too, although I have to admit, I am biased towards New Zealand. Next time you are down under, make a full several week holiday out of New Zealand, you won’t regret it.
Ryan Biddulph
So many amazing things to do Rhonda yet we just enjoyed the town itself. Definitely more pricey and tourist-y yet, like all things New Zealand, more understated than tourist towns around the globe. We dug the range of restaurants and the chill nature of the place…again, compared to most completely overrun tourist areas. The surrounding nature is beautiful though. We saw a huge lake while riding by on the bus; quite scenic.
Ryan
Rhonda Albom
Like everywhere in New Zealand that is aimed for tourists, it is more expensive (except Wellington, that’s a town loaded with free things to do). However, Rotorua is filled with unique opportunities, so you are getting value for your money.
L. Diane Wolfe
A little wine tasting and then petting llamas sounds perfect. Just like we used to do at Anderson’s Vineyard in ABQ, only we petted horses afterwards.
I would love rolling down the hill in a ball. I’d laugh and giggle all the way to the bottom.
Rhonda Albom
We hand fed and pet the llamas in the morning, had the wine tasting in the afternoon. They are at two different areas, one at ground level, the wine tasting at the top of the gondola. And yes, you will be giggling all the way down.
Paul Pietrangelo
WOW! What a fantastic place to visit. I would love to go up on the Gondolas and down the luge but not as fast as your husband. Now that large ball, going in a circle that long would make me sick. The hot water might be to hot for my body but everything looks just wonderful. I will leave the wine tasting to you but the food, now that’s my place of enjoyment. LOL. See ya Rhonda.
Cruisin Paul
PS: Next week I think I’m going to buy that Olympus TG – 5. I’ll let you know. Thanks for your help/
Rhonda Albom
The scenic track at the luge will be perfect for you, it’s also called a beginner track. It was more my speed too. As for the ball, you mostly stay at the bottom as the ball rolls around you.
Verena
I visited Rotorua a few years ago and loved the Gysires! It smelled a little, but it was so fascinating. I also visited the Māori village which was awesome to get an impression of how the people live there. Great guide, thanks for all the information!
Katie
This is a fab list of things to do! I think i would enjoy each and every one of those activities. The landscapes look amazing here and the skyline luge looks super fun!
Joy Domingo Gurtiza
I have never been to New Zealand and it’s not on my bucket list but after seeing your post I think I’m loving it too. I want to visit the Redwood Treewalk first. 🙂
Amy @ Family Globetrotters
I couldn’t have read this post at a better time! I have been thinking about a trip to Rotorua soon and now I am super convinced this would be an amazing trip! Wai-O-Tapu Volcanic Wonderland looks absolutely stunning. Those colours! And I have done the luge in Queenstown and it was crazy fun although I hear the Rotorua one is better. And no thanks for the downhill ball rolling…. I reckon I’d get motion sickness from being in that ball and being thrown around.
Rhonda Albom
You will love Rotorua. It is very much New Zealand, yet different from everywhere else. An experience not to be missed. And bring your camera because the colours are incredible, and we were there in cloudy weather. As for the ball, it is gentle.
Karla
I’m interested in working in the farm, unwinding in the spa, and watching the farm show! New Zealand looks amazing. Do you have any idea how much is the ideal budget for one week trip in New Zealand?
Rhonda Albom
New Zealand is not a cheap place to visit, and a budget would depend on where you want to go, how you want to get there, type of accommodation you choose and which activities you want to try.
Hilary
Hi Rhonda – it looks amazing and how lovely you surprised yourself at how much you enjoyed your trip there. Gosh you’ve highlighted loads for us to see and look at … it is a place (with lots to chose from) that I’d love to visit … amazing photos, great tips and ideas … would love to visit sometime … cheers Hilary
Patricia G.
I have been to New Zealand once in my life before, but I have never seen Rotorua before. This sounds like an exciting and a beautiful place to visit. I would love to visit the alpacas. They look so cute! The scenery is stunning, especially around the geothermal landscapes. I would love to ride in that ball someday, as it sounds like a lot of fun!
Sandee
Wow, so many fun things to do. Great room and the food looks fabulous. Okay the wine does too.
Have a fabulous day, Rhonda. ♥
Alex J. Cavanaugh
You looked like you were enjoying that pool.
I didn’t realize you had geysers.
I’d do it all except roll down the hill in a ball. That might make me throw up.
Rhonda Albom
That pool was so relaxing. The naturally warm mineral waters leave me feeling so relaxed and happy. And, the downhill ball roll is less jarring than one would expect.