Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal attractions. But if you’re not into mud pools, steaming geysers and mineral spas, there is still plenty on offer in this North Island city often described as New Zealand’s premier tourism hot spot.
Meet the locals
Rotorua is rich in Maori culture and is home to the Arawa people who settled here about 600 years ago. Today you can experience authentic Maori villages, where you’ll be treated to a spine-tingling cultural show, enjoy a traditional roast meal cooked in a hangi oven (earth pit) and hear fascinating stories of times gone by from passionate locals.
At Te Puia, at Whakarewarewa Thermal Village and at the Mitai and Tamaki Maori villages you’ll be welcomed with a ‘Wero’ haka challenge performed by warriors. Then you’ll have the chance to explore your surroundings and chat to your hosts.
Any of these experiences are guaranteed to please.
For the thrill-seeker
When it comes to adventure, Rotorua has plenty to offer. Its many adrenalin activities will satisfy even the most hard-core adrenalin junkie.
Mountain biking in Rotorua’s world-renowned Whakarewarewa Forest is a must-do if you love the outdoors. With about 130km of well-maintained trails ranging in difficulty, there is something to cater for all skill levels, from beginners and families to experts looking for an extreme ride.
Plunge to Earth on the dizzying Skyswing or head downhill on a luge cart at Skyline Rotorua. Hurtle downwards on the fast track or enjoy the scenery at a slower pace on the beginners’ track. The choice is yours.
Zorbing was invented in Rotorua and it remains one of the city’s most popular adventure attractions. The dry ride that tumbles you head over hills downhill will have you coming back for more, while up to two friends can join you in the wet ride; you’ll all spin downhill on top of each other in a hilarious experience.
Nestled in a 600ha forest just out of town you’ll find New Zealand’s only zipline canopy attraction. Rotorua Canopy Tours takes you into the treetops, around a network of trails, tree platforms, ziplines and swing bridges. The three-hour tours combine the thrill of flying through changing landscapes with spectacular forest scenery this company works hard to preserve. Throw in a bit of humour from the experienced guides and you have the perfect outdoor adventure.
Visitors to Rotorua are spoiled for thrills on the water, too. Wet ‘N’ Wild Rafting Adventures specialises in one-day trips on the Kaituna, Rangitaiki, Lower Rangitaiki and Wairoa Rivers, and in multi-day rafting expeditions. Take a leisurely trip downriver while you drink in spectacular scenery. Kaitiaki Adventures specialises in thrilling white water rafting and sledging trips that give you a unique view of the river and are guaranteed to get your heart pumping faster. The ability (unsurprisingly) is a must).
All about the family
Grab the rare chance to see New Zealand’s iconic kiwi up close at Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park.
The park is built around the country’s biggest and most successful kiwi conservation centre. Since 1995 this centre has released more than 1200 kiwis into the wild. Visit at night to see the kiwi at play. A small fence is all that separates you from the birds in the park’s outdoor kiwi enclosure, so you’ll get closer to them than you ever thought possible. Rainbow Springs’ 22 acres comprises native trees, streams brimming with huge brown and rainbow trout and plenty of native creatures. You’ll also get to ride the Big Splash, a log flume ride ending with a stomach-churning drop, explore free-flight aviaries and feed resident fish and birds. Don’t miss the fun and educational bird show featuring a talented avian cast.
Set in 350 acres of lush farmland, yet a mere 10 minutes’ drive from the Rotorua city centre, the Agrodome is one of New Zealand’s must-see attractions. Visitors flock here from around the world to see the renowned sheep show, a hilarious display of sheep shearing and cow milking, among other things. If you’ve ever wanted a taste of farm life, this is your chance. Audience participation is a big part of the show. Jump on the farm tour afterwards to explore the working farm, hand-feed friendly animals, and sample delicious kiwifruit juice and honey made on site.
Discover the region’s culture, volatile landscape and dramatic past in the world-class Rotorua Museum.
Presiding over the city centre’s stunning Government Gardens and housed in the iconic Bath House building, the museum features regularly changing exhibitions, unique films that give you the chance to relive significant past events and informative guided tours designed to bring the region’s stories to life. Check out the original bath house facilities in the basement and venture up to the rooftop, where you’ll be treated to panoramic city and lake views.
(Feature image: Pasi Välkkynen)
