The tourism capital of New Zealand and spiritual home of New Zealand’s Maori people is an easy 3 hour drive south of Auckland and 6 hours from Wellington. Rotorua is best known for its giant geysers, boiling mud pools, steaming cliffs, volcanoes and characteristic sulphur smell which is evident from the moment you arrive. Stirring performances of action songs and dance, followed by food cooked in a traditional hangi can be experienced. And, from the bush lined shores of its 11 secluded lakes, anglers can enjoy New Zealand's best trout fishing.
MUST SEE & DO
- Visit the Agrodome, home of the world famous sheep show
- Stop at Te Puia and experience the raw power of Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley and take a journey into the heart of Maori culture, arts and crafts
- Experience the Polynesian Spa, New Zealand's leading international spa with hot mineral spring pools and indulgent spa therapies
- Explore the rituals, music and food of the Maori people at Tamaki Maori Village
- See trout, birdlife and wild animals at Paradise Valley Springs in a superb setting of pools, streams, native bush and ferns
- Take a ride on the gondola for Rotorua's most spectacular views and descend on The Luge
- Enjoy a cruise on the lake with lunch
- Take a floatplane or helicopter over the geothermal attractions of Rotorua
