Rotorua in New Zealand had always been on my bucket list. Known for its geothermal wonders, rich Maori culture, and breathtaking landscapes, Rotorua is a place that truly captivates every sense. My recent visit to this incredible destination left me in awe, and I’m excited to share my experience with you. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, or a cultural enthusiast, Rotorua has something to offer everyone. In this post, I’ll take you through the must-see attractions that made my trip unforgettable.
1. Te Puia: Geothermal Wonders and Maori Culture
My first stop in Rotorua was Te Puia, a geothermal park and cultural centre that combines the natural wonders of the region with Maori heritage. Te Puia is home to the famous Pohutu Geyser, one of the largest active geysers in the Southern Hemisphere, which erupts every 30 minutes, shooting boiling water and steam into the air. The sheer power of the geyser was absolutely mesmerizing.
Beyond the geysers, Te Puia offers an immersive experience into the world of the Maori people. I had the privilege of attending a traditional Maori cultural performance, where the local people showcased their songs, dances, and the famous haka war dance. The performance was both powerful and moving, giving me an insight into the pride and strength of the Maori culture. After the performance, I visited the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, where skilled artisans were crafting beautiful wood carvings, weaving, and pounamu (greenstone) jewelry. It was an incredible cultural experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Rotorua.
Location: 10 Te Puia Drive, Rotorua
Entry Fee: NZD $50 for adults
Recommended Booking Platform: Official Te Puia website or Viator
2. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: A Geothermal Landscape Like No Other
Next up was Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of Rotorua’s most famous geothermal attractions. The park is a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and bizarre landscapes, with unique features like boiling mud pools, sulfuric lakes, and steaming vents. The highlight of my visit was the Champagne Pool, a stunning hot spring with vivid orange and turquoise water. The vivid colors are a result of the high mineral content in the water, and the contrast against the surrounding green foliage is simply breathtaking.
The walking trails throughout the park take you past some incredible natural wonders, like the Artist’s Palette, a pool with a mix of yellows, greens, and browns that looks like it belongs in a painting. I also walked by the Devil’s Bath, a sulfurous green pool that felt straight out of a fantasy movie. One of the coolest experiences was the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts at 10:15 am every day, shooting a plume of water up to 20 meters in the air.
Location: 201 Waiotapu Loop Road, Rotorua
Entry Fee: NZD $32 for adults
Recommended Booking Platform: Wai-O-Tapu website or GetYourGuide
3. Hell’s Gate: A Steamy Adventure into Rotorua’s Geothermal Heart
Another geothermal gem I visited during my stay in Rotorua was Hell’s Gate, a stunning geothermal park and mud bath. The name itself hints at the kind of dramatic landscape that awaits you—boiling mud, steam vents, and fumaroles. Hell’s Gate is less crowded than some other geothermal parks, which gave me a chance to experience it in peace and solitude.
I walked along the trails through the park, passing bubbling mud pools that looked like something from a sci-fi film. The Sulphur Lake was another highlight, with its eerie yellow water, and the Te Tohu Hot Water Pool provided an opportunity to relax in the warm waters while surrounded by the raw power of nature. My favorite part, however, was taking a mud bath at Hell’s Gate’s renowned spa. The mineral-rich mud was said to have healing properties, and after the bath, my skin felt incredibly soft and rejuvenated.
Location: State Highway 30, Rotorua
Entry Fee: NZD $39 for adults (mud bath experience additional)
Recommended Booking Platform: Hell’s Gate website or Viator
4. Rotorua Lakefront and Kuirau Park: Nature’s Tranquility
Rotorua is home to stunning lakes, and the Rotorua Lakefront area offers beautiful views of Lake Rotorua with easy access to walking and biking trails. I spent a peaceful afternoon walking along the lake’s edge, soaking in the serene environment and watching the boats glide across the water. The area is well-equipped with picnic spots, and I enjoyed a relaxed lunch with the lake as my backdrop.
Nearby is Kuirau Park, a public park with a geothermal twist. Walking through the park, I found myself surrounded by bubbling geothermal pools, steam vents, and hot springs. It was incredible to experience the geothermal activity right in the heart of a public park. The park is free to visit, and there are also hot pools available for a relaxing soak. The smell of sulfur in the air and the sight of steam rising from the ground made for a truly unique experience.
Location: Rotorua Lakefront, Rotorua
Entry Fee: Free (Kuirau Park)
Recommended Booking Platform: No booking required for Kuirau Park
5. Redwoods Treewalk: An Elevated Adventure Through Rotorua’s Forest
For a truly unique experience, I ventured into the Redwoods Forest and took part in the Redwoods Treewalk. This elevated walkway takes you through the towering trees of the Whakarewarewa Forest, offering incredible views of the forest canopy and the surrounding landscape. Walking high above the ground, I felt like I was in another world. The towering pines, ferns, and lush greenery created a serene and almost mystical atmosphere.
The treewalk itself is well-maintained, with safe platforms and a mix of suspended bridges and boardwalks. As the sun began to set, the forest took on a magical glow, making for some stunning photos. If you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Location: Long Mile Road, Whakarewarewa Forest, Rotorua
Entry Fee: NZD $25 for adults
Recommended Booking Platform: Redwoods Treewalk website or TripAdvisor
6. Skyline Rotorua: A Thrilling Ride to the Top
No visit to Rotorua would be complete without a trip to Skyline Rotorua, where you can take a gondola ride to the top of Mount Ngongotaha. The gondola ride offers panoramic views of the city, Lake Rotorua, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great way to get an overview of the area’s natural beauty.
At the top, I enjoyed a delicious meal at the Stratosfare Restaurant, which offers a buffet-style dining experience with spectacular views. Afterward, I took a thrilling ride down the mountain on the Luge—a gravity-powered go-kart-style ride that’s fun for all ages. I couldn’t help but giggle as I zoomed down the hillside, taking in the stunning views as I went. Skyline Rotorua is a must-visit for anyone looking for a mix of adventure, dining, and breathtaking views.
Location: Mount Ngongotaha Road, Rotorua
Entry Fee: NZD $35 for gondola and luge ride
Recommended Booking Platform: Skyline Rotorua website
Final Thoughts
Rotorua is a destination like no other, offering a remarkable combination of geothermal wonders, Maori culture, and outdoor adventures. From the striking landscapes at Wai-O-Tapu to the rejuvenating mud baths at Hell’s Gate, there’s something for every kind of traveler in this stunning part of New Zealand. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or experience new cultures, Rotorua has it all.
For those visiting Rotorua, I highly recommend booking activities in advance, especially during peak seasons, as the best attractions can get quite busy. Most attractions offer family-friendly options, so Rotorua is perfect for those traveling with kids or groups. I left Rotorua feeling completely enriched by the beauty, culture, and adventure it offers, and I’m already planning my next visit.
