Rotorua, North Island

Rotorua is a city on the North Island of New Zealand that is famous for the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley which has over 500 hot springs and mud pools, and at least 65 geyser vents. There are two geothermal sites in Rotorua called Te Puia and Wai-O-Tapu with world-famous sights like the Pohutu Geyser, the Artist’s Palette, and the Champagne Pool. Rotorua is also known as a center of Māori (indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand) culture, and offers several opportunities to explore traditional Māori arts, crafts, and cuisine.

The city also offers a wide range of experiences to travelers. Adventurers can go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping or fishing in the mountains, rivers, native forests and 18 fresh water lakes surrounding the city. They can also go rafting on the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, or experience bungy jumping, luging, zorbing or ziplining. Leisure travelers on the other hand can enjoy a simple soak in a natural hot stream or indulge in a wellness getaway at a luxurious spa.

Activities

Exciting and memorable things to do

Te Puia

Te Puia is an ancient Māori village dating back to around 1325, that is located in the Te Whakarewarewa geothermal area on the North Island of New Zealand. Te Puia features several active geysers and mud pools, and a Māori village and cultural center that showcases traditional Māori arts and crafts.

Wai-O-Tapu

Wai-O-Tapu, Māori for “sacred waters”, is an active geothermal area with several colorful hot springs, located about 27 kilometers south of Rotorua on the north island. Some of the most famous sights are the Artist’s Palette, Champagne Pool, Primrose Terrace and several boiling craters and mud pools.