Things to do in Rotorua
A Travel Guide by RaD Car Hire
At RaD Car Hire, we’re all about the journey and making sure our customers get the best possible experience during their time here in New Zealand. Whether you’re a local exploring a new area or you’re visiting from overseas, who wouldn’t benefit from a little insider information, right?
With branches in 22 locations around New Zealand, our team of staff are all passionate about their own “home” towns. Whether they’re born and bred or new to the area, our team are your local guides when it comes to exploring new destinations throughout the country. We also like to lean on our wonderful customers to find out what they have loved about New Zealand so we can add their top tips to all our travel guides.
In this guide, we are going to take you through some of the best things to do in Rotorua – or as the locals like to call it, “Rotovegas”. Rotorua is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations and is steeped in Māori history and culture. Rotorua is widely regarded as the geothermal capital of New Zealand, with lots of geothermal activities to get stuck into. It’s also the adventure capital of the North Island, only missing out to Queenstown as the adventure capital of New Zealand, with lots of high-adrenaline activities to get your heart racing.
This guide will give you some tips on things to do in Rotorua as well as places to eat, where to stay and things to see along the way. Some people find the smell a little overwhelming on their first visit (the sulphur is a bit pongy), but once you get beyond that, you will find that Rotorua is absolutely teeming with amazing things to see and do.
As one of New Zealand’s best-known car rental companies, we’ve got some great deals available on car hire in Rotorua, so make sure you check out our latest deals and great prices. Our Rotorua branch is conveniently located near the centre of the city and we also have pick up and drop off options available at Rotorua Airport for those flying in and out.
Rotorua Activities
Where to begin when it comes to things to do in Rotorua? The city is absolutely jam-packed with amazing activities to suit everyone. In this guide, however, we wanted to provide more of a local's take on the best things to do in the city. Sure, we could be like the rest and recommend the Buried Village, Wai-O-Tapu, Zorbing or jet boating, but we figure you will already have all those activities on your radar.
Instead, we chatted to our team in Rotorua, and in turn, they chatted to our customers, who came back with this list of five lesser-known activities in Rotorua:
Explore Wonderworld Amazement Park
This family-friendly attraction features a 3D mega maze that has been a Rotorua icon for over 40 years. Recently renovated, it offers nearly 2km of pathways with interlinking bridges, challenging visitors to find four coloured corners. The park also includes new attractions and a custom timing system for added competition. This is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Rotorua with a small family, especially the younger kids who may not be quite ready for lugeing up the Skyline or zorbing.
Visit Lake Ōkāreka
Just a 10-minute drive from Rotorua, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat from the more touristy areas. Visitors can enjoy the serene lake environment and potentially engage in water activities or lakeside walks. Whilst Rotorua is surrounded by a number of lakes, all offering something a bit different, one of the standout experiences at Lake Ōkāreka is the sunset. The reflection off the water really brings this tranquil and peaceful spot to life, with the native birds providing the perfect soundtrack to this magical experience.
Experience the Hamurana Springs
Located on the northern shore of Lake Rotorua, these springs offer crystal-clear waters and a tranquil walking track. It's an excellent spot for those seeking a calm, natural environment away from the crowds. Rotorua is a place that can keep you busy 24/7, which is great for those seeking adventure and looking to pack in as much as they can on their New Zealand adventure. If you have the time, however, it’s great to step away from the hustle and bustle and really relax in the most beautiful surroundings.
Take a Lake Tarawera Water Taxi
This unique mode of transportation allows visitors to explore secluded beaches and scenic spots around Lake Tarawera that are less accessible to the general public. The Lake Tarawera trail is also growing in popularity, staking its claim as one of New Zealand’s best one day walks. A water taxi is a great way to explore the trail which is around 15kms and will take 4-5 hours to complete, mainly walking along the water’s edge and ending up at Hot Water Beach where you can soak your aching feet!
Enjoy the new Geyser By Night experience at Te Puia
While Te Puia itself is well-known, the recently launched nighttime geyser viewing experience offers a fresh perspective. Visitors can explore native bush, bubbling mud pools, and watch the natural geothermal show illuminated under the night sky. This night time experience lasts two hours and certainly offers a different experience from the ones you typically enjoy during the day. This is a pretty unique way to experience the geothermal wonders of Rotorua and one that comes highly recommended from the team in Rotorua.
Rotorua Places to Eat
Rotorua is not short on great places to eat out – they have a street called “Eat Street” for goodness' sakes! As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, it’s perhaps no surprise to find a real eclectic mix of places to eat out in the city, catering to all budgets and all tastebuds. Once again, we reached out to our team and to the locals for some guidance on the best places to eat out in Rotorua and they didn’t let us down.
Here are six great choices if you are looking for somewhere to eat in Rotorua:
Fat Dog Cafe & Bar
· Cuisine: New Zealand
· Budget: Mid-range ($$)
· Features: Another of Rotorua’s most reviewed eateries, the Fat Dog is another favourite with locals and tourists alike. A quirky and casual café on Arawa Street serving hearty breakfasts, burgers, and mains since 1995. It’s family-friendly with vegan and vegetarian options, free Wi-Fi, and late-night food. Ideal for tourists seeking a laid-back dining experience. People love the generous portions and the service is fast and friendly.
Poco Tapas & Wine
· Cuisine: Spanish Tapas
· Budget: Mid-range to Upscale ($$-$$$)
· Features: This little gem came from a Reddit recommendation and did not disappoint. Located upstairs on Arawa Street, Poco offers a stylish and intimate dining experience inspired by Spanish tapas culture. The menu features seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, including options like marinated olives, homemade falafel, and lemongrass beef skewers. It's known for its excellent service and curated wine list.
Sabroso Restaurant
· Cuisine: Latin American
· Budget: Mid-range ($$)
· Features: If you are looking for something a bit different, then Sabroso may be for you. Situated on Haupapa Street, Sabroso provides a cosy and welcoming atmosphere with authentic dishes from the Caribbean, Central, and South America. The menu includes homestyle Mexican specialties and traditional South American dishes, along with signature margaritas and South American wines. It's highly recommended for its friendly service and delicious food. The owners have a real passion for both food and service – the perfect combination!
Atticus Finch
· Cuisine: Contemporary New Zealand
· Budget: Mid-range ($$)
· Features: One of Rotorua’s most reviewed restaurants, Atticus Finch is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Located in Eat Streat, this upscale bistro offers eclectic local mains and shared plates in a trendy atmosphere. Known for its cocktails and sidewalk seating, it’s perfect for dinner or a classy lunch experience. Vegetarian options are available. Bookings are recommend here as it can get pretty busy, especially in peak season.
Saigon '60s Vietnamese Cuisine
· Cuisine: Vietnamese
· Budget: Mid-range ($$)
· Features: Who doesn’t love a good Vietnamese restaurant right? Found on Fenton Street, this cosy restaurant specialises in authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho and seafood donburi. It caters to vegan and vegetarian diners while offering quick bites in a relaxed setting suitable for families or solo visitors. It tops many people’s list as their go-to place to eat out in Rotorua as it never lets you down.
Bold Flavours Bistro and Café
· Cuisine: Continental
· Budget: Mid-range ($$)
· Features: Situated on Tutanekai Street, this bistro offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner with halal and organic options. Known for its live music and casual ambiance, it caters to families and groups. Outdoor seating, happy hour drinks, and vegetarian dishes are among its highlights. Customers definitely love the breakfast options here and the service never seems to disappoint either – a solid choice no matter the time of day.
Rotorua Accommodation
As one of the North Island’s biggest tourist hotspots, accommodation options in Rotorua are wide ranging, catering to travellers of all budgets. There are plenty of motels to choose from as well as lots of Airbnb options.
Here is a list of some of the most popular places to stay in Rotorua. We have leaned on TripAdvisor and Reddit for some suggestions, which have been verified by our team:
Astray Motel and Backpackers Rotorua
· Location: 1202 Pukuatua Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
· Budget: Budget-friendly ($)
· Features: If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, then Astray Motel and Backpackers have some really good options, no matter what you are looking for, from private double rooms to multi-bed dorms. Offers simple rooms, some with microwaves, a shared kitchen, and free parking. It is a relaxed option for travellers looking for affordability and convenience.
Quest Rotorua Central
· Location: 1192 Hinemoa Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
· Budget: Mid-range ($$)
· Features: You will find a Quest Apartment complex in most towns and cities throughout New Zealand, and they never let you down. Quest offers down-to-earth studios and apartments with complimentary Wi-Fi. Centrally located for easy access to city attractions. Most of the team have stayed in a Quest somewhere in New Zealand and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend one to travellers in Rotorua.
Cosy Cottage Thermal Holiday Park Rotorua
· Location: 67 Whittaker Road, Koutu, Rotorua 3040, New Zealand
· Budget: Mid-range ($$)
· Features: Holiday parks are a New Zealand staple, whether you’re a Kiwi family on holiday or a visitor from overseas. You will find holiday parks in most towns and cities in New Zealand, from chains like Top Ten to independents like Cosy Cottage. This one offers RV parking, cabins, playgrounds for children, and dog-friendly accommodations and includes thermal pools for relaxation.
Rydges Rotorua
· Location: 10 Tryon Street, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
· Budget: Upper mid-range ($$$)
· Features: If you are looking for something a bit more upmarket in Rotorua, the Rydges Hotel is a good option. The hotel features a gym, restaurant, lobby bar, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi and is ideal for travellers seeking comfort and amenities in a hotel setting. Customers love the breakfast, but do be warned – the hotel is near the geothermal attractions and the sulphur smell can be quite strong at times!
Sudima Lake Rotorua
· Location: 1000 Eruera Street, Central Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
· Budget: Upper mid-range ($$$)
· Features: Another of Rotorua’s chain hotels, the Sudima is a lakefront hotel offering bright rooms, a heated indoor pool, three hot tubs, and dining options. This is great for those looking to enjoy some of the geothermal activities from the comfort of their hotel. The hotel is suitable for those wanting scenic views and relaxation and it’s also located close to Eat Streat where you will be able to enjoy some of the restaurants recommended above.
Rotorua Geothermal Attractions
Whilst we have already provided some tips to some of Rotorua’s hidden gems, it would be remiss of us not to talk about the geothermal attractions in Rotorua. Some of these attractions are free and others are paid attractions, however, we recommend that you visit at least one or two of these amazing sights during your trip to Rotorua:
Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
· Cost: NZD $42.00 (approx. cost at time of writing)
· Features: Wai-o-Tapu is undoubtedly one of Rotorua’s most popular geothermal attractions and well worth a visit. Wai-o-Tapu is located a short drive from downtown Rotorua and is known for its vibrant colours and the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts daily at 10:15 AM. The site also includes the iconic Champagne Pool and other colourful hot springs. The walkway around the geothermal pools will take around 2 hours and is a great place for families.
Kuirau Park
· Cost: Free
· Features: Located in the city centre, this park offers bubbling mud pools, colourful hot lakes, and free thermal foot pools. It's a great place to experience geothermal activity without spending money. Kuirau Park is a great place for those on a budget looking to enjoy geothermal activities in Rotorua. There is a great short walking track that allows you to explore the park and it’s a great way to spend a couple of hours.
Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa
· Cost: NZD $45.00 (geothermal walk), NZD $90 (mud bath & spa), or NZD $115 (geothermal & spa combo) – all correct at time of writing
· Features: Another of Rotorua’s primary geothermal attractions, Hell’s Gate is not only a wonderful place to explore but also full of history and culture. The place is steeped in Māori legend, and the stories you will learn about during a visit will inspire you as much as the geothermal waters themselves. Hell’s Gate offers a unique mud spa experience, the largest mud volcano in New Zealand, and a chance to learn about Māori healing practices.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
· Cost: Varies depending on activities (e.g., walking trails, boat cruise)
· Features: The Waimangu Volcanic Valley is the world’s youngest geothermal system, featuring Frying Pan Lake and the Inferno Crater. The valley is steeped in history, from the eruption of Mt Tarawera to the vanishing of the Pink and White Terraces – once known as the eighth wonder of the world. Visitors can hike or take a boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana.
Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave
· Cost: Varies depending on activities (e.g., boat cruise and cave exploration)
· Features: Located south of Rotorua, Orakei Korako boasts the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. Up to 23 active natural geysers play freely through the area, which is constantly changing. It offers a unique geothermal cave experience with gushing geysers, hot springs, and silica terraces. Accessible via a short boat cruise.
Renting a Car in Rotorua
If you're looking to rent a car in Rotorua, look no further than RaD Car Hire. With super competitive prices, a great selection of cars from compact to 4x4, and a promise of great customer service, then RaD is a great choice for all travellers.
For those already located in Rotorua looking for a rental car to take them on an exciting adventure somewhere on the North Island, make sure you check out our cheap car rental deals from our Rotorua branch.