Top 8 things to do in Rotorua

Te Puia, part of the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, features the mighty Pohutu Geyser which erupts up to 30 meters high. Visitors can explore traditional Māori wood carving and weaving at this geothermal park.

Worth knowing. Visit in the early morning to enjoy fewer crowds and catch geysers in cooler, steamier air.

Monday: 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:30 – 11:00 PM | Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Wednesday: 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:30 – 11:00 PM | Thursday: 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:30 – 11:00 PM | Friday: 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:30 – 11:00 PM | Saturday: 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:30 – 11:00 PM | Sunday: 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:30 – 11:00 PM

The Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest is a massive woodland famed for its towering Californian coastal redwoods, some reaching up to 70 meters in height. As you wander the forest's trails, the scent of pine fills the air, and filtered sunlight creates a serene ambiance. It's a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and those seeking tranquility.

Worth knowing. Try the Treewalk at dusk for a magical experience with lantern-lit pathways.

Monday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM | Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM | Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM | Thursday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM | Saturday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM | Sunday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM

Perched along Lake Rotorua, the Polynesian Spa offers a rejuvenating experience with geothermal waters sourced from the nearby Priest and Rachel Springs. These mineral-rich springs are renowned for their soothing abilities, especially for those with joint pain.

Worth knowing. Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, especially in the deluxe Lake Spa.

Monday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Thursday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Kuirau Park is Rotorua’s only free geothermal public park, featuring boiling mud pools and steaming vents just meters from walking paths. The foot pools allow visitors to soak their feet in naturally heated waters for a unique geothermal experience.

Worth knowing. Visit early morning to see the pools at their steamiest with less crowd.

Monday: Open 24 hours | Tuesday: Open 24 hours | Wednesday: Open 24 hours | Thursday: Open 24 hours | Friday: Open 24 hours | Saturday: Open 24 hours | Sunday: Open 24 hours

The Agrodome, established in 1971, is famed for its interactive farm experience. Visitors see a farm show featuring 19 different sheep breeds and can participate in a sheep-shearing demonstration. This is ideal for families and animal enthusiasts curious about New Zealand's agricultural heritage.

Worth knowing. Attend the morning show for smaller crowds and more interaction opportunities.

Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Government Gardens in Rotorua began as an ambitious public project in the late 1800s, transforming a swamp into a vibrant public space. The Tudor-style bathhouse, once a hub for therapeutic bathing, now serves as the Rotorua Museum, framed by manicured flowerbeds and steaming geothermal pools.

Worth knowing. Find the historic Blue Baths building, a beautifully restored Art Deco pool hidden away from the main paths.

Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Rainbow Springs Nature Park opened in 1932 and is home to New Zealand’s native wildlife, including the iconic Kiwi bird. The park offers visitors a chance to engage with nature through its immersive wildlife shows and interactive exhibits.

Worth knowing. Attend early bird feeding sessions for a more intimate experience.

Lake Rotorua is the second largest lake in the North Island, formed from a volcanic caldera. Its shimmering waters play host to a range of activities, from paddleboarding to fishing, set against a backdrop of volcanic hills.

Worth knowing. Head to the less crowded northern shoreline for quieter fishing spots.