Mokoia Island, Rotorua  © Destination Rotorua

About Rotorua

Long established on the tourist route, Rotorua has been attracting international visitors to its sulphur scenes since the mid nineteenth century.

New Zealand's oldest tourist destination

The famous Pink and White Terraces were touted as the eighth wonder of the world, until their tragic destruction in the 1886 Tarawera Eruption.  Today you can visit the Buried Village, one of the settlements totally destroyed by the volcano.

Geysers, Mudpools and Thermal Activity

Rotorua’s turbulent past is evident in the many geysers, mud-pools and thermal reserves sprinkled around the town.  The most widely visited thermal area is Te Whakarewarewa.  Here you can view the awesome Pohutu Geyser, spouting up to 20 times a day often to a height of 30 metres. A number of thermal reserves are also located out of town, including the infamous Hell’s Gate and majestic Wai-o-Tapu.

Maori Cultural Experiences

Opportunities to experience Rotorua’s vibrant Maori culture are endless.

As well as the many beautiful landmarks and buildings that are rife with Maori legends, Rotorua is the place for live Maori cultural shows. Dance, song, haka, hangi and humour are all a part of the shows that are on offer at most major hotels and with a number of local family operators.

Attractions and Activities

Rotorua also offers a number of unique visitor attractions. The Agrodome is home to New Zealand's world-famous sheep show, where visitors can experience Kiwi farm life (and animals) first hand. The popular gondola, luge, Zorb, Swoop and bungy are located close to town for those seeking a thrill, whilst a little further a field you will discover excellent walking and mountain biking tracks. Don't miss your chance to see live Kiwi within an arm's reach at the Kiwi Encounter at Rainbow Springs. And after a day of adventure there’s ample opportunity to sit back and relax in one of the many thermal bathing areas, including the world famous Polynesian Spa.

 Treetops Lodge Rotorua has been ranked the top New Zealand hotel by  Conde Naste Traveler  readers.  © Navigate Oceania

Rotorua

Accommodation

Centrally located hotels, motels and backpackers abound in Rotorua. Further afield you'll find secluded luxury lodges, and luxury B&Bs.

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 Polynesian Spa complex in Rotorua, with lake in background. Rotorua, New Zealand.  Polynesian Spa Rotorua

Rotorua

Activities

For an authentic Rotorua experience, visit a Maori cultural show and explore the region's distinctive geothermal areas, but beware of the smell!

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