Nestled on the shores of its namesake lake in the Bay of Plenty, Rotorua is one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary destinations — famous for geothermal wonders, mountain biking and some of the most authentic Māori cultural experiences in the country. Originally settled in the 14th century, Rotorua is a cultural hotspot and a must for anyone wishing to experience Aotearoa beyond the postcard.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Rotorua?
The best things to do in Rotorua include exploring the Redwoods Treewalk in Whakarewarewa Forest, witnessing the spectacular Pōhutu Geyser at Te Puia and immersing yourself in authentic Māori culture through traditional performances, hāngī feasts and living cultural experiences. Together, they showcase the natural, cultural and geothermal wonders that make Rotorua one of New Zealand’s most distinctive destinations.
Mountain Biking & Walking in Whakarewarewa Forest
The world-famous Whakarewarewa Forest is home to over 130km of mountain bike trails weaving through some of the tallest trees in New Zealand — Californian redwoods that grow in excess of 70 metres. Just 5km from Rotorua city, the trails are graded for all abilities, from first-timers to experienced riders, and are rated among the world’s best.
Prefer to slow down and take it all in? The Redwoods Treewalk is the answer — a network of suspension bridges suspended through 553 metres of forest canopy, open without harnesses or safety gear, and accessible day or night. After dark, the canopy comes alive with an award-winning light installation by New Zealand designer David Trubridge — one of the most memorable experiences in the region.
Geysers & Geothermal Pools at Te Puia
Rotorua’s most iconic attraction needs little introduction.
The Pōhutu Geyser at Te Puia is the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, erupting multiple times daily with columns of water reaching up to 30 metres high. Walk through the surrounding geothermal valley past bubbling mud pools, steaming vents and hot waterfalls — a landscape that genuinely looks like another planet.
Te Puia also houses the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, where you can watch master carvers and weavers at work, and a kiwi conservation centre for a rare close encounter with New Zealand’s national bird.
Māori Culture
Rotorua’s Māori heritage runs deep, and the best way to experience it is to immerse yourself completely.
Visit Te Wairoa — the Buried Village — where an entire settlement was preserved beneath ash and mud following the catastrophic 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera. An on-site museum tells the full story, and walking trails lead through the archaeological site to waterfalls hidden in the native bush.
At Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village, witness an authentic haka performance and share a geothermally cooked hāngī feast — food slow-cooked using volcanic heat, producing rich, smoky flavours unlike anything else. It’s the perfect way to cap off a Rotorua visit.
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Ready to plan your Rotorua adventure? Speak to one of our New Zealand Holidays specialists today.