Waimangu Volcanic Valley - born from the massive 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera, is the world’s newest geothermal eco-system, and an exciting and dramatic destination that the whole family can enjoy. Whatever your age or fitness level, you'll find something that suits you - self guided and guided easy walks, advanced hikes and boat cruise experiences, ranging in duration from 45 minutes to over 4 hours. If you want outdoor activity, peaceful New Zealand bush, unique ecology, rare botany and stunning geothermal features, then Waimangu is the 'must do' experience. It is easily accessible, just 20 minutes south of Rotorua, and 40 minutes north of Taupo. Daily from 8:30AM.
Okere Falls - approximately 20 km (12 mi) out of the city towards Tauranga on SH33 you will pass the end of Lake Rotoiti; most of the 14 lakes flow into Rotoiti, which itself heads off to the Bay of Plenty, descending nearly 305 m (1000 ft) in less than 30 km (19 mi). For this reason it boasts some of the most spectacular white water challenges available to the intrepid traveller. These range from dual kayaks, to white water sledging (hurling yourself down stream with a life jacket and float), or rafting. Tuteas Fall is the worlds largest/highest commercially rafted fall; with a 7 m (23 ft) drop, on average every fourth boat flips! If you don't want to get wet there is a pleasant 6 km (4 mi) walk though the forest where you can see the activities at close hand. There are also some small caves where glow worms can be found.
Te Puia home to the Whakarewarewa Valley of geothermal activity, including bubbling mud pools and geisers. General admission is $40, but once inside there are regular, free guided tours throughout the park, including the geothermal areas, the marae, and the kiwi house. There are also Maori cultural experiences like traditional dances and meals available for an additional charge. Now under construction to become an even more mega-attraction.
Whakarewarewa Thermal Village the main competitor to Te Puia - ironically two Maori iwi competing with similar attractions. Good, and appears less developed and maybe more "authentic" than the next door Te Puia.
Skyline Skyrides(Fairy Springs Road) -- located on the outskirts of town, this gondola ride up Mt. Ngongotaha offers a panoramic view of Rotorua and the surrounding mountains.
A Boiling Pool in Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Rainbow Springs Nature Park Beautifully landscaped nature park featuring sculptured ponds with cuy fish and gardens including Kiwi birds and other native New Zealand animals. $27 + $2 for kiwi encounter tour.
The Agrodome(State Highway 5 North of Ngongotaha) -- An agricultural park with farm animals, shows and exhibitions describing rural life in New Zealand both past and present. Both the sheep show and the farm tour are both exceptional! As well as the farming attractions, the Agrodome is home to the Freefall Experience simulator, the north islands highest bungee jump, a jet boat ride and the ubiquitous Zorb - where you are sealed inan inflatable ball and rolled down a steep hill!
The Buried Village -- Self-descriptive, the village was swamped with ash by the nearby Mt. Tarawera in the massive 1886 eruption which killed 153 people.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland -- A great park to see a variety of geothermal landscapes and active volcano activities, including the Lady Knox Geyser, which is a famous geyser that erupts daily to heights of 10 to 20 m (33-66 ft).
The Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions about Rotorua
Where To Stay & Best Hotels in Rotorua - updated May 2024
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Rotorua Travel Guide from Wikitravel. Many thanks to all Wikitravel contributors. Text is available under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0, images are available under various licenses, see each image for details.
