30 BEST Things to Do in Rotorua – The ULTIMATE Guide (2025)

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Backpacking New Zealand is a wonderful adventure to pursue and if you love adventure, you’ll love Rotorua, my friend. Rich in Maori culture and history, unique geothermal activity and endless outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone and abundant entertainment. The landscapes are unreal, from the 17 lakes to discover to the forests that surround them.

Rotorua boasts some of New Zealand’s BEST activities and I’m going to take you through my faves.

I want to acknowledge the indigenous people of Aotearoa and acknowledge that thanks to Te Tiriti, I can call this land home. WordPress doesn’t allow the use of macrons on their site so I apologise for the incorrect grammar in my venture to use Maori kupu (words) where possible and as I know them. I welcome any corrections on my use of kupu or purakau (creation stories), some I have been told and some I have researched, I accept that I may be wrong.

1. Venture Through Kuirau Park

Ok, ok, I’m going to start off your Rotorua stay real easy. You’re here for bubbling mud, stinky sulphuric steam and something different, right? Kuirau Park is exactly that.

This is the easiest place to access the wonders of geothermal activity that is prolific in Rotorua and it’s relatively unknown and not suuuuper touristy. At least, as far as Rotorua goes – this place is a massive tourist trap so it’s pretty special to just meander around. What’s more, it’s completely free of charge, geothermal pools with steam and volcanic activity literally at your fingertips.

But do not touch! This shit is hot so keep your wits about you and take your photos for the mems, not burns.

It’s a flat, easy walk so it’s appropriate for any level of fitness, or if you’re travelling with your family. I guarantee everyone will be enthralled by the otherworldly feeling of Kuirau Park and if you get there early morning, you’ll beat the crowds.

There’s a purakau (a traditional Maori story) that says that the big lake in Kuirau Park once was cool and a swimming spot. Until one day, a woman was taken by a Taniwha (think loch-ness monster vibes) and to punish the Taniwha, the Atua (gods) brought the heat, literally. There are now newly built pools you can soak your feet in which is lushhhhhhh.

• Rating: 8/10
• Cost: Freeeee!
• My Personal Opinion: It’s a beautiful, natural wonder and even if you do a quick stop in, I reckon it’s worth it.

2. Discover Whakarewarewa – The Redwood Forest

Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest (known commonly as the Redwoods) is home to an elite selection of mountain biking trails – rated in the top eight worldwide by Red Bull. There are over 160kms of world-class trails to chase adrenaline through, whether you’re a novice or an expert, there’s something for you.

You can cruise through the shade of the canopies of Redwood, Radiata, Douglas Fir Eucalyptus and Larch Trees, with native ferns lining the trails. Dendrophiles and mountain bike fanatics will enjoy a day spent in the ngahere (forest).

As much as this is another stunning natural haven in Rotorua, planted in 1901, there have been some major tourist attractions developed recently. The trees in Whakarewarewa grew faster than their compadres in their native California due to the climate and were returned to Maori ownership in 2009. Some trees now tower 72 metres tall and there is a marvellous treewalk built amongst them.

So if mountain biking doesn’t get you going, discover the forest in a different way, and feel the thrill of the high ropes course. Cruise amongst the canopy on a zipline and make sure you get back here at night for the Redwoods Nightlights.

• Cost: Free to roam the forest, mountain bike hire and treetops walk will cost ya
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: If you’re a nature baby like me, you won’t want to miss this.

3. Walk Around the Blue Lake

Lake Tikitapu, or the Blue Lake is the smallest lake between Lake Rotorua and Lake Tarawera and is a lovely place to take a walk. There are ample spots to stop for a swim along the way and the track is covered for the most part by beautiful native bush. It’s a 5.5km amble and which will take you about a half hour if you hustle but take your sweet time if you’ve got it.

There’s a Top 10 Holiday Park across the road from the lake so if you fall in love with the area, you can stay awhile. You may even be able to find some glamping spots about. I went to school camp here and I always make a trip out to the Blue Lake when I pass through Rotorua. It’s only a 20-minute drive from town, it feels a world away and is the gateway to the wider lakes area.

Top tip: there’s Rotokakahi (the Green Lake) just across the way and it’s tapu (sacred) so don’t swim here.

• Cost: Free
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: I love it here! I feel like I give such gassed-up ratings but I only recommend things I love!

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4. Take a Ride on a Genuine WWII Landing Craft

Bet ya didn’t expect that, did ya? New Zealand is aaaages away from pretty much anywhere else in the world, so we skip a lot of big world drama like wars. There isn’t much history around the war throughout Aotearoa and what there is is pretty light

Enter the Duck Boat! One of my favourite tourist traps in Rotorua is this crack up (quack up!) tour which begins in the heart of Rotorua city. You’ll cruise through the sights to see in Rotovegas like the lakefront and learn about the diversity which makes this such a unique destination.

From there the duck boat will take you through the lake region, seeing Mount Tarawera and splish splosh splash into Lake Tikitapu. Seeing the lake from the water is pretty special and I think this is the most fun and accessible way to get on a boat. Finding friends with boats takes awhile and I’m assuming you don’t have heaps of that.

• Cost: NZD$85
• Rating: 9/10
• My Personal Opinion: I think this is such a fun thing to do but sometimes you don’t have that cash spare.

5. Visit the Buried Village of Te Wairoa

I’m sure you’ve heard of Pompeii, but I doubt you know there is a parallel in Rotorua! The village of Te Wairoa was buried by an eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886, preserving a lot of the town by instantly mummifying it. This eruption also buried the Pink and White Terraces, reportedly the largest silica deposits on earth which you can learn about at the onsite museum.

Once you tour through the museum, you’ll be able to walk through the remains of the village which has been tenderly excavated for 90 years. Under the kaitakitanga (guardianship or protection) of the Smith family, Te Wairoa has been gently brought back above Earth for us to be amongst. Budget to spend a couple of hours here, it’s pretty amazing.

Through the village is Te Wairoa Falls which are a stunning showcase of the natural wonder that’s so abundant in Aotearoa. And no, I will not shut up about it, get on the bandwagon and get excited!

• Cost: NZD$25
• Rating: 8/10
• My Personal Opinion: I think this is a really special sight to see, especially if you’re into history but it is definitely time-consuming so it depends on your itinerary.

6. Camp Out at Lake Tarawera Outlet

This is a not-to-be-missed activity in my books, a stunning walk through native bush around Lake Tarawera to a serene campsite… With a thermal outlet spring a 10-minute walk through a mossy wonderland reminiscent of a Dr Suess book. I highly recommend making time for it if you’re a nature frother and are down for a night camping in a tent.

Te Rata (Hot Water Beach) does need a warning though – localised parts of the sand are scorching – just be careful and tread wearily. A water taxi is available if you just want to dash over the lake and check it out and are a bit time-poor. We hiked out to the camp, stayed the night, hot soaked in the morning and booked a water taxi to take us back to the carpark.

In my opinion, the trail is pretty friendly, DOC says it takes around 5-6 hours, and it’s 15kms one way. I seriously kooked it, looking out for the homies and hiked in with 10L of water that was surplus to requirement and wasn’t drunk… The things you do eh? Anyway, access the Tarawera Trail vie Te Wairoa carpark, just 15 minutes past Lake Tikitapu.

• Cost: Free (Water taxi will cost)
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: It’s a top-of-the-list jobbie for me. Obviously, you need a bit of time to max out the experience but if you have it, use it here.

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7. Find Fairies on Mount Ngongotaha

Do you believe in Fairies? In Maoridom, they’re called patu-paiarehe and are prolific in purakau (creation stories). These guys live by the night and if you go climbing through the ngahere (bush) on Maunga Ngongotaha, you’re sure to believe.

The tracks on this mountain are an easy mission if you don’t have time in your itinerary to go too far afield. They’re just six and a half kilometres from Rotorua city centre and feel like a mystical world, especially on a misty day. Pull up to Violet Bonnington Reserve, follow the trail and pick either the Jubilee Track or the Nature Track.

The Nature track is a cruisy loop track that cuts over the Jubilee Track and loops back to the reserve. Meanwhile, the Jubilee track goes straight up the guts of the maunga (mountain), and there are a number of information boards along both tracks.

• Cost: Free
• Rating: 8/10
• My Personal Opinion: An epic excursion if you’re pretty city bound but I’d recommend heading further afield if you’ve got the time and resources for a longer bush mish.

8. Roam Around Rotorua’s Lakefront

This is a lame-sounding but beautiful way to immerse yourself in local history and culture for a minimal cost. It’s also something you can easily do no matter what time of year you visit. The city centre was built around the settlement of Ohinemutu in the 1870s, where visitors to Rotorua would arrive by boat. From here, these visitors (including royalty, no backpacks in sight I believe) would carry on to the Pink and White Terraces.

Ohinemutu is a living Maori village and while you’re free to roam and venture through here, remember it’s people’s homes and stay on the path. There is no charge to enter and you can see cooking over geothermal boiling water vents and outdoor bathing facilities.

The Ngati Whakaue tribe have been here since 1350 after journeying from Hawaiiki, the Pacific homeland of the Maori people. There is a big old wharenui (meeting house) where lots of important events still take place. It’s not open to the public but you can admire the sparkling paua shells inlaid into the intricate carvings which tell stories of local heritage.

• Cost: Free
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: This is such an epic free in and out thing to do if you’ve only got a hot mintu to squeeze some culture and insight into your trip.

9. Eat Something WONDERFUL

Eeeep, I’ve been a bit negligent on the places to eat side of things eh? That being said, I don’t reckon it’s what you’re here for. In case you do want some direction though, Eat Street is a good place to head if you’re in the city. There’s a veritable smorgasbord of dining options, from the Pig & Whistle, originally built as the police station in the 1940s, to vegan dining options.

Gastronomy in Rotorua has taken off in the last few years and Eat Street is the innovative hub for it to be displayed. This being said, I HIGHLY recommend going to the Okere Falls Store, you can sit at this bar looking over the river. Watching the people and the action, or retreat to the beer garden out the back and enjoy the sunshine and selection of craft beers.

• Cost: Up to you!
• Rating: 8/10
• My Personal Opinion: I honestly haven’t ever been blown away by anything I’ve eaten but it’s got variety and is good to fuel your missions

10. Hit Up Some Mini Golf

One of the most picturesque mini-golf courses in the country might be a big call but hey, I’ll run with it! With something for everyone, this is one for all to enjoy, the setting is very New Zealand with Flemish Giant Rabbits hopping across the course. there’s a waterfall and a 200-year-old Rata stump as well as 18 holes to putt around.

I say Flemish Giant Rabbits are very Aotearoa and I stand by it, there are so many introduced species hopping around our land. They fuck up the native ecosystem but we’re all getting along fine mostly. There are also piwakawaka (fantails) and native flora and fauna in the course.

The Rotorua Mini Golf Experience is one for the books, it’s a hot date, a great day out with your mates and always a laugh.

• Cost: From NZD$20
• Rating: 5/10
• My Personal Opinion: I’m not a mini-golf fan but it’s a crowd pleaser.

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11. Hike Mount Tarawera

Te Maunga o Tarawera or Mount Tarawera is a volcano with huge cultural significance to the Ngati Rangitihi Iwi (tribe) that whakapapa (descend from) here. From the get-go, this is a culturally informed and supported tour to be a part of. You’ll jump in a 4×4 and skrrt up the maunga to a solar-powered base camp where you’ll officially start the hikoi (walk) with karakia (prayer).

Along this guided hike, you will hear stories about the history of the area, deepening your connection to the land.

Inviting blessings, protection and guidance is ingrained in all Maori do and it is a special ritual to be a part of. With breathtaking, 360 degree views you’ll be in constant awe whether you’re gazing at the shimmering lake, native forests or volcanic landscapes along the way.

This is a hikoi into the heart of the geological and cultural heritage of Aotearoa, a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re staying in Haka House, one of the best hostels in Rotorua, you can get a pick up!

• Cost: NZD $209
• Rating: 9/10
• My Personal Opinion: I love hiking and the only reason this isn’t a 10/10 is because the climb might not be accessible for everyone.

12. Bathe at Hells Gate

Sounds scary, right? It’s not. The name was coined back in the last century by a pakeha and the Maori who own the joint loved it and it stuck. This is for my boujee babes who want a more refined geothermal experience with showers and spa facilities.

Hells Gate Geothermal Reserve is just a 15 minute drive from central Rotorua and a wonderful restorative rebound if you’ve just hiked Mount Tarawera. You can even get picked up from wherever you’re staying in Rotorua city by their shuttle so you can fully relax. Without worrying about falling asleep behind the wheel, you can fully immerse yourself in all Hells Gate has to offer.

The unique mix of thermal, therapeutic mud and acidic, sulphurous waters will truly imbue with your body, like your soul has had a spa treatment. The warm geothermal mud opens and cleans the pores while the sulphuric spa provides a deep clean and gently exfoliates.

• Cost: From NZD$90
• Rating: 8/10
• My Personal Opinion: This is a divine indulgence I encourage you to enjoy if it’s within your means.

13. Shoot Some Clay Birds

Get that adrenaline pumping by blowing some shit to pieces! Adventure Playground offers an amazing Rotorua clay bird shooting experience. With a variety of semi-automatic weapons to choose from and the option to progress to a quick-fire five rounds, that’ll get everyone excited.

Suited for beginners right through to experienced clay-bird shooters and nestled in native bush, this is always going to be fun. If the adrenaline rush is too much, spin yourself around and look out at the peaceful scenes of Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island.

• Cost: There are different packages and they start from NZD$85
• Rating: 9/10
• My Personal Opinion: If you’ve got the cash to splash, this is undeniably so much fun!

14. Discover The Lakes By Air

Has my Mount Tarawera hike piqued your interest but it’s not quite for you? Does it sound stunning but you’re more of a cruiser than a climber? I’ve got you, amigo, jump in this heli ride around the lakes, and you’ll get to land on top of Mount Tarawera and get that pic.

This is obviously a big spend but if you have the opportunity, I implore you to take it – a heli ride is a special experience. You’ll leave from the Rotorua Lakefront and fly over Mokoia Island, over stunning craters and lakes, land on Mount Tarawera and then out to Wai-O-Tapu. Wai-O-Tapu is home to the Artists Pallette and Champagne Pool which are stunning geothermal geological sights that will have you questioning whether you’re still on earth.

You’ll carry on into secluded valleys and land for a geothermal tour where you’ll get to see erupting geysers and silica terraces. These sights give you an insight into what the land may have been like if Mount Tarawera hadn’t exploded.

• Cost: From NZD$1325
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: Get yourself a daddy and get on that heli – it’s worth it!

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15. Go For A Swim!

Ok, let’s cool off from those fat-ticketed activities for a second! Spend a day by the lake, it’s free, it’s cool, and if you have made some local friends who have a boat, even better! Depending on your mode of transport while you’re travelling really depends on what you have access to. Collectively they’re some of the best places to visit in Aotearoa.

There are 17 lakes and I don’t know how many km’s of beach around them collectively. Ergo there are almost limitless posts to park up and chill for the day but personally, I love Rotoiti and Lake Tikitapu best. Rotoiti has lots of little beaches (lots of them are private) and Lake Tikitapu is pretty well set up with a playground and BBQs.

If you head out towards Whakatane on SH30, you’ll have a beautiful scenic drive out to one of my favourite spots to hang out. Follow the road and you’ll pass Marae, a shop that still rents DVDs (!! at least when I cruised past in 2024 he was). Turn off at Tamatea Street and at the end of that road there’s a really lovely bush walk you can explore.

• Cost: Free
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: If you’re a simple gal, you’ll love it here, it’s peaceful, the ngahere is stunning and pretty untouched and there are public toilets so you can stay awhile.

16. Have a Soak in Kerosene Creek

If you’re heading towards Taupo as you travel around New Zealand, Kerosene Creek is a stop that’s worth your while. Heck, even if Taupo isn’t on your agenda, it’s just a 30-minute drive out of Rotorua. If you want some free hot soaking, this is the joint so get that hitching thumb out or start your engine and check it out.

The therapeutic properties of geothermal water have been proven time and time again and if you visit Kerosene Creek, you will find out for yourself. Be warned though, it STINKS. Like, bring a bag to store your togs and towel in and rinse and wash them as soon as you get home sort of stinks.

But what lasts longer than the sulphuric tang of geothermal goodness is the sense of full body relaxation you’ll be left with. Not only are you soaking away stress, but you’re also opening yourself up to pain relief, improved blood circulation and ultimate restoration. Do be careful and enter carefully though, the hot parts are HOT!

• Cost: Free
• Rating: 8/10
• My Personal Opinion: Honestly, I’m not a sucker for a hot soak but this is where I take people who are, it’s natural, peaceful and free!

17. Visit Skyline for Some Luging

Part toboggan, part go-kart, the luge is a gravity-fuelled downhill slide that is thrilling. The longest track you can ride is almost 2 km and weaves you through a beautiful forest, there are three other Luge tracks. Each of these winds its way down Mt Ngongotaha with a variety of spirals, turns, tunnels and bridges that are a treat to explore.

My one recommendation is to buy more rides than you think you’ll want. It takes a couple of goes to get the hang of the luge and by then you’ll be hooked! There is a restaurant up top and also the option to hit the Zipline and tour through the canopy of the mountainside. 400 metres of sky-flying and panoramic views out to Lake Rotorua are pretty stunning and a fabulous addition to your day on the mountain.

The best bit? Ok, it’s hard to pick the best bit, but I love the gondola ride up the maunga (mountain). I love it for the views, I love it for the anticipation with the homies, wondering “What the heck is a luge?!”. And I just think it’s super fun to slide UP a mountain in a glass box, looking out over Rotorua.

• Cost: Luging and Gondola Passes start from NZD $60
• Rating: 9/10
• My Personal Opinion: I love luging and doing zoomies through the forest on these lil sleds. The price isn’t always accessible tho.

18. Embark on a Zipline Adventure

Do you like blue mushrooms? This tour is for you, my friend! The original canopy tour will take you through the treetops of ancient forest, into the exhilarating natural beauty of Aotearoa.

From swing bridges that will take your breath away, through platforms in the canopy and along thrilling ziplines, this is a unique experience. An unforgettable day out, experiencing the forest with a friendly, knowledgeable guide who will support you over this sometimes challenging course. This activity is not for the faint-hearted but does provide an immense sense of achievement, no matter your skill level.

Even if you have a fear of heights, I encourage you to give this adventure a go, the staff are so friendly and supportive. There are elaborate and strict safety measures in place so you can trust you’re in good hands.

• Cost: From NZD $189
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: I am a bit of a thrill seeker and this is worth the splurge if you have the cash for it.

19. White Water Rafting

So this list is definitely not in chronological order, thanks for sticking around this long! While I’m on my thrill-seeking buzz, I would be remiss not to mention rafting the Kaituna River. This is the largest commercially rafted waterfall in the world.

The Tutea Falls are a seven-metre drop and if this doesn’t get ya squealing, maybe there’s something wrong with your voice box! Just 20 minutes out from central Rotorua, it’s worth a trip out here whether you’re rafting or not, the Okere Falls Store is the tits. It’s a fabulous place to fuel up with a lil coffee pre-raft and gorge yourself on their delicious food when you regain your appetite!

The Okere Falls Store is also a sweet spot to go for a little live music and has the best selection of craft beer in Rotorua. There’s also a really nice little walking track to see the falls if you want to watch people raft over.

• Cost: NZD$125
• Rating: 8/10
• My Personal Opinion: If you have a fragile nervous system, maybe think twice. This is terrifying but in the most thrilling, terrific way.

20. Chill TF Out at The Government Gardens

If you’re chilling in the city and have some time to kill, spend it at the Government Gardens, home to Rotorua Museum and Gallery. The iconic Blue Baths were opened in 1908 and are noted as the first major investment in the New Zealand tourism industry. The Mediterranean-style swimming pool was the first of its kind IN THE WORLD to allow both men and women to bathe in the same pool.

Check to see if the Blue Baths are open before you plan a trip here to swim, they’re currently being renovated for earthquake strengthening.

There is a range of gardens to explore outside of the buildings where I could happily spend a day lazing in the sun reading my book. The land originally known as Paepaekumana was gifted to the government of New Zealand by the local iwi (tribe) in the late 1800s.

• Cost: Free (Blue Baths and museums may incur a charge to enter)
• Rating: 8/10
• My Personal Opinion: Who doesn’t love to lounge about in a rose garden??

21. Fly Through Velocity Valley

I said Rotorua is action-packed and Velocity Valley is no exception… With names like the Swoop, Freefall Xtreme, the Shweeb Racer and the Agrojet, my heart is already jumping! The staff are patient and kind if you’re prone to panic attacks, take a deep breath and surrender, my friend.

This is a hub for all things innovative, daring and extreme, the diversity of these activities is unique and thrilling. Traverse top speeds on the river in a jet boat or soar through the air in the swoop, a cocoon that flies through the sky. The Freefall Xtreme will have you flying, dressed up like you’re skydiving in the only outdoor wind tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere.

• Cost: From NZD$65 per ride
• Rating: 8/10
• My Personal Opinion: This activity is a little spenny, but it’s fun and something you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.

22. Pounamu Carving

“Ahakoa, he iti, he pounamu” – a Maori whakatauki (proverb) which translates to “although it is small, it is precious”

Take a step inside a living atelier of Maori craftsmanship at Mountain Jade Studio. You’ll get an introduction to the tikanga (customs and traditions) surrounding pounamu, New Zealand Jade and get to see the carvers at work. At the end of the day, you’ll be able to create your very own piece of pounamu to string up and take home, a very special souvenir.

This is an intimate studio, it is noisy and active so be prepared for this but the studio will provide you with earplugs to buffer the noise. Pounamu is a taonga (treasure) in Maoridom which holds deep mana (energy), connecting the wearer to their ancestors and the natural world.

• Cost: NZD$45
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: I love to discover and dive into culture when I’m visiting a place so for me, this experience is invaluable.

23. Hikoi (Walk) Around Puarenga Stream Track

This track is a mellow one way walking track that is a class showcase of Ponga (New Zealand Silver Fern) Forest. This is a lovely spot to take a picnic and spend some time soaking up the mauri (life force) of this ancient native bush.

The Silver Fern is a national symbol of Aotearoa and has huge historical significance to Maori. It’s deff one of my top travel tips to see them.

In the old days, pre-colonisation, different iwi (tribes) would travel by foot under the cover of darkness but by the light of the full moon. The leader of the hikoi (walk) would use silver ferns like breadcrumbs, their silver underbellies reflecting the light of the moon and leading silvery trail.

The rest of the ropu (group) would follow, with the last person turning the leaves green side up again, effectively erasing their trail.

• Cost: Free
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: This place is special, tucked away in the back blocks of the redwoods, it’s a great place to just BE.

24. Kayak Out to Rotoiti Hot Pools

The Manupirua Springs Hot Pools are an elegant example of harnessing the wonders of geothermal activity and cultivating them in a harmonious way. This is a pretty raw experience, made more intimate by kayaking out to the pools across Lake Rotoiti for a hot soak. Enjoy the naturally heated, drained and refilled daily with the most pristine view.

When I was a kid, I’d come here with a friend’s parents who had a boat but now you can come out via kayak, or even float plane! Since tours to Whakaari (White Island) stopped operating, Volcanic Air has started offering a scenic tour of the Rotorua Lakes that lands on the jetties out the front. Kind of a harsh to the vibe to be honest but if you’ve got the budget, it’s a pretty fun experience.

• Cost: NZD$169pp
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: Float plane or kayak, this is a stunning place to have a hot soak and I LOVE that it’s drained daily!

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25. ZORB

Do you want to be in that plastic ball rolling downhill? This is such a bizarre experience and was invented right here in Rotorua in 1994. Andrew Akers and Dwane van der Sluis were just two more Rotorua randoms with harebrained ideas that put them into motion. Now you can slide downhill in one of their fun and bizarre balls right here in Rotorua and even in other places around the world.

Rotorua is iconic for chasing dreams and making shit happen, it’s fertile land for the weird and the wonderful and giving it a go. So zoom over to the ZORB and get into it! It’s an inflatable ball filled with water to keep you upright as you roll downhill.

There’s hot barista coffee, hot tubs and hot water in the balls in winter and cold water in summer at Zorb Rotorua.

• Cost: From NZD$95
• Rating: 8/10
• My Personal Opinion: It’s the only place in New Zealand where you can Zorb so if you wanna do it, go do it!

26. See Some Glow Worms

You can do it by foot, on a guided kayak tour, or even by motor boat but I find that seeing glow worms by water gives you the best view. Add to that the serenity of being in a kayak on the water and you’ve got the dream setup if you ask me. This kayak trip is at night obviously so you can see the glow worms in their best lighting – their own!

Cruising through caves and going from seeing constellations of stars to constellations of glowworms lacing the walls is phenomenal. Like natural fairy lights, glowworms aren’t nearly as creepy as they sound! You’ll also be with a knowledgeable local guide who will give you the scoop on the life of a glowworm and the best kayak tactic.

• Cost: NZD $169
• Rating: 8/10
• My Personal Opinion: I’ve seen some 10/10 glow worms for sure but it’s weather, season and nature-dependent so I’m not going to guarantee anything for ya!

27. Explore a Bit Further Afield

Ok, this is a rogue one, a bit out of the Rotorua area code, but worthwhile nonetheless and maybe, on your way to your next stop? Orakei Korako or Waiotapu is en route to Taupo and heading these ways gives you new thermal delights to discover, plus Huka Falls.

If you’re staying in Taupo after your Rotorua stint, this is worth stopping to see. The geothermal activity makes these wild rainbow colours in the geology of Waiotapu and the Huka Falls are PHENOMENAL too. They are so huge and so powerful and a tiny detour off the main road and you can take a day trip if you’re not heading on to Taupo.

• Cost: NZD$262 or Free!
• Rating: 7/10
• My Personal Opinion: The falls are epic (and free to access) and even driving past Waiotapu is cool, but it’s probably not worth the trip unless you geek out on this stuff.

28. Soak in the Secret Spot

Secret Spot is a new hot tub spot in the Whakarewarewa Forest and is a sublime experience. From little foot soaks to full-size cedar tubs nestled into the forest, listening to native birds and the nearby stream.

These are pretty affordable but a real taste of luxury, especially if you’re van living, you miss things like showers, let alone soaking in a tub! So if you feel like treating yourself, I reckon this is the spot, you pull up, are warmly welcomed, you get a shower – ooh yeah, delicious… THEN, you find your personal tub, slip into the soothing water and feel yourself relax… You thirsty? There’s water right beside you, OR, there are buttons to order directly from the bar!

• Cost: NZD$43
• Rating: 9/10
• My Personal Opinion: Like I said, I’m not much of a hot soaker, but IF I was…. I’d choose here for sure. Forest Bathing and Water Bathing? Special!

29. Make a New Friend at Wingspan

Established in 2002, Wingspan Bird of Prey Centre is committed to the conservation of Aotearoa’s Karearea falcon. Falcons are a taonga (treasure) to tangata whenua (Maori, people of the land), representing strength, agility and nobility. Maori believe Karearea could predict the weather by interpreting their cry and while this is not the kaupapa (idea) of Wingspan, they are revered and nurtured here.

Wingspan supports the wild population of this native manu (bird) and is a place where you can visit and see these predators live in action. Wild populations of the Karearea are supported by Wingspan’s releasing of captive-bred falcons and rehabilitated injured birds. Initiated by a grassroots movement in the 1980s and is now recognised as New Zealand’s leading conservation, education and research organisation for birds of prey.

It is said that the fiery, glaring eyes of the morepork (another bird of prey you may encounter) inspired the pukana eyes. You will become more familiar with the pukana as you explore Maori culture but you may recognise it already from the Haka. Note that Wingspan doesn’t accept paywash – cash is king and you’ll want to get here at 11 am for the ‘Flight of the Falcon’.

• Cost: Free if you become a member and contribute to this kaupapa, otherwise it’s NZD$33 for adults
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: This is legit! It’s such a wonderful thing to support and if you ask nicely you can get a falcon to land on you!

30. Mountain Biking, Duh!

Last but certainly not least, definitely alluded to but not explicitly promoted as of yet, is hooning some of the 200 km of trails through Whakarewarewa. Is it rude of me to assume you remember that Whakarewarewa is the Redwood Forest? This is an all-time activity and there is a complete array of routes for riders of all levels and plenty of rentals around. It is a world-class mountain biking track that attracts experts from all over the globe.

I will say take it easy though if you’re a beginner, it’s easy to fuuuuuck yourself up. I wish I could pop a video of my friend doing a (**accidental) cartwheel with his bike through the forest as he hit a tree stump. One time, my mum got concussed going down the Gully and was asking for me when she woke up despite me being away…

I’m not trying to scare you, just encouraging you not to be an idiot!

• Cost: Free if you have your own bike!
• Rating: 10/10
• My Personal Opinion: It can be as thrilling or as mellow as you like and I feel something so special about the mauri (life force) of Whakarewarewa, it’s just nice to be in!

Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in Rotorua, New Zealand.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Rotorua

Good travel insurance is essential if you’re exploring Rotorua from abroad!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Rotorua is the epitome of Mother Nature showing off, from the bubbling mud to the steaming geysers, it’s a display you don’t want to miss. There are cultural experiences aplenty, unlike other parts of the country and abundant nature-gasms readily available. I hope a few of these activities got your juices going and you’re gagging to check out Rotovegas for yourself!

My favourite thing to do in Rotorua is bush walk and my favourite thing to do in the world is enjoy good coffee and good food… This is why I always head to Okere Falls and let the people know it’s an unmissable spot. Another banger is Lake Tikitapu, fresh water swims and an easy round-the-lake amble is a shame to miss.

Back to cultural experiences real quick, Wingspan Rotorua might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but I HIGHLY recommend it. Visiting supports our native manu (birds) and if that’s not supporting the culture, I don’t know what is.

Whatever you decide to get up to in Rotorua, I’m sure you’ll love it and please let me know what you do!

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂