Rotorua Attractions

Pohutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve erupts an almost constant column of hot water up to 30 metres. Enjoy spectacular views of Pohutu from Te Puia at the end of Fenton Street.

Rotowhio pa (fort) at Te Puia incorporates buildings typical of pre-European times.

Bath House is perhaps New Zealand’s most photographed building; it now houses the Rotorua Museum of Art and History. The museum boasts a great collection of exhibits.

St Faith’s Church combines Maori and English decoration including woven reed (tukutuku) panels and the chapel window featuring Christ walking on Lake Rotorua wearing a Maori cloak. The church is located within a living Maori village.

Wildlife sanctuary, Mokoia Island, which is covered in native bush and walking tracks. The island is filled with birdsong and is home to several kiwi.

Kuirau Park, a combination of formal English gardens and thermal areas with mud pools, hot springs and hot relaxing foot baths. Please keep to the paths at all times.

Okere Falls Scenic Reserve is located on Trout Pool Road off SH 33. There is a well-formed bush walk with spectacular waterfalls.

Te Wairoa buried village, a casualty of the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption that also destroyed the famous Pink and White Terraces (considered to be the eighth wonder of the world).

Waimangu Volcanic Valley formed by the Mount Tarawera eruption. The force of the eruption split the mountain in two creating a 17km rift in the Earth's crust and seven impressive craters.

Whakarewarewa Forest is five minutes' drive from the centre of Rotorua and is famous for its grove of California redwoods. The grove is a great place for a leisurely stroll, while the forest itself has some of the best walking and mountain-bike trails in New Zealand. The forest visitor centre on Long Mile Road is a good place to start.

Lake Tikitapu (known as the Blue Lake) lies alongside Lake Rotokakahi (the Green Lake). Climb to a small lookout between the two lakes to see the difference in colour and then walk the 5km track around Lake Tikitapu.

Lake Okareka is one of the most beautiful lakes in the area. It features a small residential settlement and a 2.5km boardwalk along the lake edge.

Wai-o-tapu is a geothermal area known for its brilliant colours. Highlights include the colourful Artist’s Palette, Champagne Pool and the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts daily at 10.15am.

Lake Tarawera is one of Rotorua’s favourite lakes, it offers tranquillity, sparkling water, stunning scenery, water sports, fishing and Hot Water Beach, where you can enjoy your own natural spa pool.