Looking for the top Rotorua things to do? This beautiful city has it all, nature, culture, action and relaxation. To make your travel plans a little easier we’ve put together our list of the top 10 must-dos in this geothermal hot spot, so you’ll never be stuck for the best Rotorua things to do.
- Experience the regions geothermal wonders
- Go zorbing down Mount Ngongotaha
- Mountain bike on world-class trails
- Fly through untouched native New Zealand forest
- Be part of a cultural Maori performance
- See native kiwi
- Go luging
- Dine at Eat Streat
- Relax at secret spot
- Experience a thermal mud bath
Find out more about our favourite Rotorua things to do below.
Experience Geothermal wonders
Rotorua is a geo-thermal wonderland! Since the 1800’s these bubbling mud pools, spouting geysers and volcanic crater lakes have attracted millions of visitors to the region. There are some amazing geo-thermal parks like Wai-O-Tapu which are the best spots to see New Zealand’s range of geothermal elements but you can also see some geothermal features for free in the city centre at Kuirau Park or Sulphur point. Check out our favourite geothermal pakrs here.
Go Zorbing
Zorbing is an experience like no other and it was invented right here in Rotorua! Choose from four different tracks, with or without water for a thrilling adventure - who would have through rolling down a hill in a ball would be so much fun! This is definitely one of the most unique Rotorua things to do.
Mountain bike on world-class trails
Rotorua is home to world-class mountain biking trails. The city was even awarded gold-level ride centre status by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) – one of only six centres in the world. There are some epic trails to choose from including Whakarewarewa Forest, Skyline Gravity Park, Rainbow Mountain and the Moerangi Track - check out our favourite tracks here.
Fly through untouched native New Zealand forest
One of the best Rotorua things to do is to soar through virgin native forest and experience New Zealand like you’ve never seen it. Rotorua Canopy Tours will take you on an amazing zipline adventure where you can soar through the trees and walk through the forest canopy on suspended tree bridges, as kiwi guides bring the forest to life. Every customer that goes on tour also contributes to the conservation of the forest. This is definitely an experience you will never forget!
Be part of a cultural Maori performance
Immersing yourself in the Maori culture unique to New Zealand is a must-do and Rotorua has some of the best places in to do it! Tamaki Maori Village is New Zealand’s most award-winning cultural attraction. Their experience immerses you in the pre-European Maori way of life, including ceremonial rituals, cultural performance, storytelling and a hangi feast.
See native kiwi
Visit the Rainbow Springs kiwi house to see New Zealand's favourite bird – the kiwi! You can view our national bird all year round in their nocturnal kiwi enclosure and see other animals like trout, reptiles and other native birds on their guided tour.
Go luging
Take in spectacular views of the city at Skyline Rotorua as you luge down one of three tacks - the scenic, intermediate or advanced. Part go-cart, part toboggan, the concept was created here in New Zealand. This fun-filled activity is a great Rotorua thing to do - race your mates or take the whole family.
Dine at Eat streat
If you ask anyone where to go out for dinner in Rotorua, chances are they’ll tell you Eat Streat. This unique al fresco dining area has a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. It even has a thermally heated footpath to warm your feet in the colder months!
Relax at Secret Spot
One of the most relaxing Rotorua things to do and the perfect way to end your day of adventuring is having a spa at Secret Spot. Set in a tranquil landscape with native plants, boulders and streams around the hot tubs, this beautiful spot will take your breath away. As well as soaking in the tubs you can also get great coffee, Good George craft beer and cider and delicious bakery food at their bar and café.
Experience a thermal mud bath
Hells gate mud spa is a one-of-a-kind geothermal mud experience. Known for its beauty and healing properties, the thermal mud and nutrient-rich water help relax the body.
There are so many amazing activities in this city, it’s hard to choose the best Rotorua things to do! If you’re looking for some more inspiration check out our complete list of things do in Rotorua here.
