What to do in Rotorua

Activities, attractions and tours

A geothermal area with a green pool, an orange rim, and steam rising from the water.
A group of people standing on a wooden deck overlooking a misty waterfall.
A rope bridge in a forest with illuminated hanging lights.
A wooden boardwalk through a foggy marshland with trees in the background.
A geyser erupting with steam, surrounded by a rocky landscape and a crowd of spectators.

Rotorua Attractions

Next stop: Rotorua! You're keen to set sail in a different direction. Perpetually prepared for inventive ways to get your kicks and have an enlightening experience, you're eager to explore an exciting travel spot like a pro. Book your activities now, and all you'll have left to do is count the days until your escape and start daydreaming, because Expedia Canada makes it easy to book lots of things to do.

  • The things to do in Rotorua are not only perfect for you, but they won't break the bank. We have 154 things to do here, and you can get them starting at just CA $14 . Get your favourite tour on Expedia Canada at an ideal rate, and you'll still have enough cash for a fancy hotel or decadent meal while you're in town.
  • Rotorua is popular among travellers similar to yourself. In fact, a good percentage of travellers can't wait for their next holiday to the region to learn about local culture and participate in the best activities. The most booked things to do can catch the attention of even well-versed travellers, and one look at our list explains why. Our collection includes an impressive range of historically based tours and excitement. From unique ways to see the best this area has to give like a Hobbiton Film Set Tour to stimulating ways to get your feet wet like the Jet Boat & Manupirua Hot Springs Tour, there is a huge selection of selections to choose from when you browse through all the things you can do here at Expedia Canada.

You'll need a game plan to really get the most out of Rotorua, particularly when you want to include plenty of food and entertainment. And it's evident that you're someone who likes to get out and about—you're ready to get out and have an adventure. You look forward to scoping out the best activities around, and a quiet day exploring local neighbourhoods is an adventure all its own. Our activities are the best way to organize your holiday. Book professionally guided tours on Expedia Canada, and you'll learn all about the city's history along the way.

Things to do


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Top places to visit

1. Polynesian Spa

Located adjacent to beautiful Lake Rotorua, the steaming baths of the Polynesian Spa are the perfect place to destress. Soak in steamy, cleansing water while you gaze out across the pristine lake. Escape to your very own private pool or play on the slides in the large family area.
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A tranquil indoor pool with a view of a lake and mountains.

2. Skyline Rotorua

Skyline Rotorua cable car carries passengers up Mount Ngongotaha to a height of 487 metres (1,598 feet). Admiring the views isn’t the only thing to do at the summit. Sip a coffee in the café, fly over dense forest on the zip line or steer down the steep luge course.
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A cable car system, lush greenery, and a distant town.

3. Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest

Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest is a tranquil woodland park crisscrossed by trekking and biking trails. Set off on a hike past thermal ponds and geysers or admire eucalyptus trees and immense Californian Redwoods while horseback riding.
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A rope bridge in a forest with illuminated hanging lights.

4. Mitai Maori Village

The Mitai Māori Village gives you and your family the chance to experience Māori food, art and traditions. The tours are not only educational, they are also very impressive and enjoyable.
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A group of people observing a ritual in a lush, green forest with a river.

5. Te Puia New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute

The Te Puia New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute is dedicated to preserving Maori culture. Watch expert carvers and weavers produce sublime statues and garments. Listen to stories about why these arts are so precious to the country’s tribes and survey an array of exquisite handmade products.
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A series of tall poles with decorative elements against a clear blue sky.

6. Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park

The purpose-built Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park takes a determined approach to wildlife protection and education. The conservation centre is a 9-hectare (22-acre) park that focuses on educating the public to assist in the repopulation of the illusive kiwi bird. Live bird shows, feeding sessions and a lake full of wild trout are combined with a breathtaking waterslide experience. Watch as kids play on the slide before dipping back into learning as they continue to explore the park.
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A waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and ferns.

What to do in Rotorua


Stay near popular Rotorua attractions

Where to stay in Rotorua

Find the best Rotorua areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Rotorua
Learn more about Rotorua

Inner City

While visiting Inner City, you might make a stop by sights like Rotorua Night Market and Tamaki Maori Village.

Fenton Street

One reason travelers love spending time in Fenton Street is the luxurious spas, and Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre is a top place to visit.

Ohinemutu

Spas and lake views are notable features of Ohinemutu. You might consider a stop by Lake Rotorua while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Whakarewarewa

The panoramic lake views and luxurious spas are just a few highlights of Whakarewarewa. Make a stop by Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village or Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve while you're exploring the area.

Kawaha Point

River views, spas, and restaurants highlight some of the notable features of Kawaha Point. Make a stop by Lake Rotorua while you're exploring.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Rotorua

Frequently asked questions

Is Rotorua worth visiting?
Whether you want to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or try unique foods and explore in nature, there are many things to do in Rotorua.
How do I spend a day in Rotorua?
Once you've visited top attractions like Sulphur Point and Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre, spend some time discovering Rotorua's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Rotorua?
The top tourist attraction in Rotorua is Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Rotorua?
You can easily enjoy top attractions like Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre, Sulphur Point and Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre with a three-day stay in Rotorua. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stick around longer and venture to Mourea.
Is Rotorua a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to do and see in Rotorua. Several attractions, such as Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre and Sulphur Point, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Rotorua's neighbourhoods, Fenton Street is 0.97 kilometres away from downtown, while Glenholme is 2 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Rotorua with kids?
Planning what to do in Rotorua with kids is easier than ever. Whether you have teenagers or little ones, there's a range of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Rotorua for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Rotorua, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Volcanic Hills Winery.
Are there free things to do in Rotorua?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Rotorua is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Sulphur Point is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.