10 Places To Visit In Rotorua On Your Trip To New Zealand

Blue Lake in Rotorua, surrounded by greenery, is a beautiful place to visit in Rotorua.

Rotorua is a city on New Zealand’s North Island famous for its hot pools, bubbling mud, and geysers. The city also has a strong Māori culture, where visitors can see traditional dances and try local food. There are many beautiful lakes to visit, and people can enjoy fun activities like ziplining and mountain biking. Families can explore wildlife parks and adventure parks. If you are looking for exciting places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand, this city has many wonderful spots to explore and enjoy.

Top 10 Places To Visit In Rotorua

Let’s explore some of the beautiful places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand from lush meadows to serene lakes.

1. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

 A view of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, a stunning place to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand

Photo: Sébastien Goldberg / Unsplash

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a famous place in Rotorua, New Zealand. It has hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and a special geyser called Lady Knox, which shoots water into the air every day. One of the most beautiful spots is the Champagne Pool, which has bright orange and green colours. The whole area looks different because of the steam and colourful water. It is a great place to walk around and see nature’s wonders. If you are looking for places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand, this geothermal park is a must-see.

Location: 201 Waiotapu Loop Road, Rotorua 3073, New Zealand
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

2. Te Puia

A view of Te Puia with the Pohutu Geyser erupting, one of the places to visit in Rotorua.

Photo: Manuel Pavon Garcia / Wikimedia Commons

Te Puia is a great place to learn about Maori culture and see amazing natural wonders. It is in the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley and has the famous Pohutu Geyser, which shoots hot water into the air many times a day. Visitors can watch Maori artists carve wood and see a special cultural show at the Te Aronui-a-Rua meeting house. It is a fun and interesting place to explore. People who like history and nature will enjoy it. Te Puia is one of the best places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand, for learning and adventure.

Location: 20 Hemo Road, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours

3. Redwoods Forest (Whakarewarewa Forest)

A peaceful trail in Redwoods Forest, is one of the places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand

Photo: Daniel Hopper / Unsplash

The Redwoods Forest is a great place for people who love nature and outdoor fun. It is one of the places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand. This forest has very tall Californian Redwoods and beautiful walking paths. You can walk, ride a bike, or enjoy peaceful surroundings. There is also a fun treetop walkway with hanging bridges, where you can see the forest from above. The air is fresh, and the views are amazing. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature away from the busy city.

Location: Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3074, New Zealand
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

4. Lake Rotorua

 A serene view of Lake Rotorua, with a wooden pier extending over the calm waters.

Photo: Jeevan Jose / Unsplash

Lake Rotorua is the second biggest lake on the North Island. It is a beautiful place to relax and have fun. People can go on a boat ride, paddle a kayak, or catch trout fish. The lake has warm spots because of the underground heat, which makes swimming special. The views are lovely, and it is a calm place to enjoy nature. Many visitors love spending time here. It is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand, perfect for a quiet day or an exciting water adventure.

Location: Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 hours

5. Government Gardens

A view of Rotorua's Government Gardens with flowers, historic buildings, and lawns.

Photo: Sung Jin Cho / Unsplash

The Government Gardens is a special place in Rotorua that has a lot of history. It has beautiful gardens, hot pools, and the famous Bath House, which is now the Rotorua Museum. Walking through the gardens is calm and relaxing. You can see lovely flowers and old buildings and learn about the past. The park is well cared for and is a great spot to enjoy nature. It is one of the best places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand if you love history and peaceful walks. Many people come here to see the beauty and enjoy the quiet surroundings.

Location: 9 Queens Drive, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours

6. Skyline Rotorua

Skyline Rotorua offers a stunning view of the city, one of the best places in Rotorua.

Photo: MI ED / Unsplash

Skyline Rotorua is a fun place for people who love adventure. The gondola ride takes you up the hill, giving you beautiful views of the city and Lake Rotorua. At the top, you can try exciting activities like the Luge, ziplining, and mountain biking. If you want to relax, you can enjoy tasty food at the Stratosfare Restaurant while looking at the amazing view. It is a great spot for both fun and relaxation. Skyline Rotorua is one of the best places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand, offering a mix of adventure and stunning scenery for everyone.

Location: 178 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua 3015, New Zealand
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours

7. Polynesian Spa

A geothermal hot pool at Polynesian Spa, surrounded by rocks and overlooking Lake Rotorua.

Photo: CLEMENT MABULA / Unsplash

Polynesian Spa is a great place to relax in Rotorua, New Zealand. This famous spa has natural hot pools with beautiful lake views. The water is full of special minerals that help people feel better. You can choose private pools for quiet time or public pools to enjoy with others. The warm water is very soothing and perfect after a long day of travel. Many people come here to rest and feel refreshed. It is one of the best places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand, for a calm and peaceful time.

Location: 1000 Hinemoa Street, Lakeside, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 hours

8. Hamurana Springs

 A scenic view of Hamurana Springs with clear water, lush greenery, and redwood trees.

Photo: Frederik Vanrenterghem / Wikimedia Commons

Hamurana Springs is a beautiful and quiet place in Rotorua. It has very clear and deep water, making it a special spot to see. It is the deepest freshwater spring in the North Island. People can take a peaceful walk through tall redwood trees and green bushes. The bright blue water and birds make it a great place for photos and relaxation. It is perfect for nature lovers who want a calm and pretty place to visit. Hamurana Springs is one of the places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand, for those who enjoy nature and peaceful surroundings.

Location: 773 Hamurana Road, Hamurana 3097, New Zealand
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours

9. Rotorua Museum

 A building of the Rotorua Museum, with intricate architecture, a place to visit in Rotorua

Photo: Antilived / Wikimedia Commons

The Rotorua Museum is in a special building called the Bath House. It is a great place to learn about Rotorua’s history, Māori culture, and hot springs. Right now, the museum is closed for repairs, but people can still see the beautiful building from the outside. It is in the Government Gardens, which are open for visitors to walk around and enjoy. Before closing, the museum had many interesting displays about Rotorua’s past. It is an important place to visit. If you are looking for places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand, this museum is a must-see.

Location: Government Gardens Oruawhata Drive, Rotorua 3046, New Zealand
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours

10. Blue Lake (Lake Tikitapu)

 A view of Blue Lake, surrounded by green forests, with its calm waters reflecting the sky.

Photo: Michal Klajban / Wikimedia Commons

Blue Lake, also called Lake Tikitapu, is a beautiful place in Rotorua. The lake is bright blue because of the special volcanic minerals it contains. It is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. There is a 5.5 km walking track around the lake that gives amazing views of the water and forests. People come here to relax by the shore or enjoy fun activities on the water. It is a peaceful and lovely place to spend time outdoors. If you are looking for places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand, Blue Lake is a perfect choice.

Location: Bay of Plenty 3073, New Zealand
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

Rotorua is a wonderful place with hot springs, geysers, and exciting activities. You can enjoy nature, relax in warm waters, or explore forests. There is also a chance to learn about Māori culture. With so much to see and do, you will have a great time. Plan your trip with TripXL to explore the best places to visit in Rotorua, New Zealand and make amazing memories.

Cover Photo: Hongbin / Pexels

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Rotorua is between March and May or September and November when the weather is pleasant.
A 2–3 day trip is ideal to explore the main attractions in Rotorua.
Yes, places like the Government Gardens and Redwoods Forest offer free entry.
Rotorua is well-connected with public transport, taxis, and rental cars for easy exploration.

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