ROTORUA
Rotorua is the heartland of Māori culture and a geothermal wonderland, famous for its bubbling mud pools, geysers, and natural hot springs. It’s a land where the earth breathes, offering unique, vibrant experiences unlike anywhere else in New Zealand.
The city is a perfect blend of adventure tourism and deep cultural heritage. From serene lakes and towering redwood forests to the unmistakable scent of sulphur, Rotorua offers a memorable journey for every traveler.
Most Popular Attractions
Geothermal & Natural Wonders:
Te Puia: Home to the spectacular Pōhutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, and the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: Famous for the colorful Champagne Pool, bright green Artist’s Palette, and the daily eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser.
Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley: A living Māori village where the Tūhourangi/Ngāti Wāhiao people have used the thermal resources for cooking, bathing, and heating for centuries.
Hell’s Gate (Tikitere): New Zealand’s most active thermal park, featuring the largest mud volcano and therapeutic mud baths and spa.
Kuirau Park: A free public park right in the city center where you can view bubbling mud pools and hot springs up close.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley: The world’s youngest geothermal system, created by the 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera, with unique hot springs and steaming crater lakes.
Cultural & Historic Sites:
Rotorua Museum (Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa): A beautiful, historic building (currently closed for earthquake strengthening) that tells the story of the Rotorua region and Te Arawa people.
Tamaki Māori Village: An immersive cultural experience offering traditional welcoming ceremonies, performances, and a Hāngi (traditional meal cooked underground).
Ohinemutu Village: A historic Māori settlement on the shores of Lake Rotorua, featuring the magnificent St. Faith’s Anglican Church and a traditional meeting house.
Whakarewarewa Forest (Redwoods): A majestic forest of towering Californian Coast Redwoods, perfect for walking, running, and mountain biking.
Blue Baths: A stunning Art Deco building in the Government Gardens, historically significant for its role as a social hub.
Lakes & Outdoor Activities:
Lake Rotorua: The second-largest lake in the North Island, ideal for scenic boat trips to Mokoia Island, a historic reserve.
Rotorua Luge & Skyline Gondola: Ride the gondola up Mount Ngongotahā for stunning views and then luge down one of the several tracks.
ZORB Rotorua: The original site for globe-riding, where you roll down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball.
Agroventures Adventure Park: Offers adrenaline-pumping activities including the Swoop (giant swing) and the Shweeb (monorail cycling).
Rotorua Canopy Tours: A thrilling ziplining experience through the ancient native forest.
Trout Fishing on the Lakes: Lake Tarawera, Lake Rotoiti, and Lake Ōkareka are renowned spots for rainbow trout fishing.
Hamurana Springs: A beautiful reserve featuring a stunning crystal-clear freshwater spring and stream flowing through a redwood grove.
Food & Relaxation:
Polynesian Spa: Voted one of the top ten spas in the world, offering mineral-rich hot pools overlooking Lake Rotorua.
Eat Street: A vibrant, covered area in the city center with a wide selection of restaurants and cafes, many offering al-fresco dining.
Rotorua Night Market: A lively weekly market (Thursday) offering international cuisine and local crafts.
Volcanic Air Safaris: Offers scenic flights over Mount Tarawera and the geothermal areas, including landing on hidden lakes.
Waikite Valley Thermal Pools: A quieter, more remote option offering thermal bathing with natural spring water.
Activities & Experiences
Explore Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley: Witness the powerful Pōhutu Geyser erupt, bubbling mud pools, and silica terraces within the home of the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people.
Experience a Māori Hāngi Feast and Concert: Attend an evening cultural performance that includes a traditional hāngi (food cooked using heated stones buried in a pit oven) and learn about the local customs and legends.
Mountain Bike in the Whakarewarewa Forest: Ride some of the world-class trails in the iconic Redwood Forest, catering to all skill levels from family tracks to technical descents.
Soak in Geothermal Hot Pools: Relax and rejuvenate in one of the many therapeutic, mineral-rich hot pools, such as those at the Polynesian Spa or the secret local spots.
Zorbing/Swoop/Luge at Skyline Rotorua: Get your adrenaline fix by riding the gondola up Mount Ngongotahā and enjoying gravity-fueled activities like Zorbing (rolling down a hill in a giant inflatable ball) or the Luge.
Walk the Redwoods Treewalk: Experience the forest canopy on a series of suspension bridges, offering a unique perspective of the giant Californian Redwoods, particularly magical at night.
Visit the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: Marvel at the vibrant colors of the Champagne Pool and the daily eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser (at 10:15 AM).
Take a Scenic Seaplane Flight: Enjoy a breathtaking flight over Rotorua’s 18 lakes, taking in aerial views of Mount Tarawera and the geothermal landscapes.
Trout Fishing on Lake Rotorua: Hire a guide or boat to try your hand at catching the famous rainbow trout in the freshwater lakes.
Learn About the 1886 Tarawera Eruption: Take a guided tour to see the remnants of the devastating Mount Tarawera eruption that buried the famed Pink and White Terraces.
Paddle a Waka (Māori Canoe): Join a guided experience on one of the lakes, learning the history, protocols, and paddling techniques of a traditional Māori canoe.
Wander through the Rotorua Government Gardens: Explore the historic manicured gardens, home to the iconic Tudor-style Rotorua Museum building and the Blue Baths.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Ideal: A rental car offers the most flexibility for exploring the diverse range of attractions, especially those outside the main city center like Wai-O-Tapu or the further lakes. Parking in the city is generally straightforward.
The CityRide Bus Network: Rotorua has a reliable local bus network that connects the city center, major suburbs, and some key tourist attractions like the Redwoods and Te Puia. The bus service is a cost-effective way to get around the main areas.
Shuttles and Tours: For specific attractions, numerous shuttle services and organized tours operate, particularly for the major geothermal parks, eliminating the need to drive and park.
Cycling: The city is bike-friendly, with many paths and access to the Redwoods mountain biking trails directly from the city via designated routes. Consider renting a bike for urban exploration.
From the Airport: Rotorua Airport (ROT) is only a 15-minute drive from the city center. Taxis and airport shuttles are the main options for transfer.
Embrace the Sulphur Smell: Rotorua is famous for the pervasive “Rotorua smell” (hydrogen sulphide gas, H2S), a byproduct of the geothermal activity. It smells like rotten eggs, but locals are used to it, and it’s a sign that you are in the right place!
Respect the Māori Culture: Rotorua is a cultural hub. When visiting a marae (Māori meeting ground) or attending a cultural performance, be respectful of local customs, such as accepting the hongi (traditional pressing of noses) if offered. Always ask before taking photos of people or sacred places.
Layer Up: Rotorua’s weather can be changeable, especially with the lake and elevation. Dress in layers, as a sunny morning can quickly turn into a cool, breezy afternoon.
Geothermal Safety: Always adhere to the safety barriers and warning signs in the geothermal parks. The ground can be unstable, and the water is extremely hot (often near boiling point).
Dining Times: New Zealand dining times are generally earlier than European standards. Lunch is usually 12 PM – 2 PM, and dinner often starts around 6 PM – 8 PM. Many restaurant kitchens close by 9 PM.
Hidden Gems:
- Kerosene Creek: A natural, stream-side hot pool where a hot spring meets a cooler creek. It’s rustic, free, and popular with locals (be mindful of your belongings).
- Hamurana Springs: A beautiful, easy walk around a crystal-clear natural spring known for its resident trout and redwood grove. The water is incredibly pure and vibrant blue.
- The Blue and Green Lakes (Tikitapu and Rotokakahi): Two lakes situated side-by-side with distinctly different colours due to their different mineral contents. A popular spot for walking and photography.
- Okere Falls: A spectacular set of waterfalls where the Kaituna River drops over a series of cascades, often featuring world-class whitewater rafters and kayakers.
Top Restaurants
Pātaka Kai [$25-$45] – The main restaurant at Te Puia, offering an authentic experience with a focus on traditional Māori kai (food), including the famous hāngī (earth oven) cooked meals and buffet options with indigenous ingredients.
Pig & Whistle Historic Pub [$15-$30] – An iconic Rotorua landmark located in a former police station, offering classic, hearty Kiwi pub fare, gourmet burgers, and a great selection of local beers on tap, popular with locals for a relaxed atmosphere.
The Factory Smokehouse and Grill [$20-$35] – A popular spot known for its delicious smokehouse meats and grill favourites, delivering high-quality, flavourful food with a commitment to a good price point.
Number 8 Wire [$20-$35] – Epitomises the essence of New Zealand’s culinary heritage with a modern twist, named after the iconic symbol of Kiwi ingenuity, offering dishes like lamb rump and pork belly.
The Brook Bar and Bistro [$20-$35] – Tucked away in the Best Western, this is a local hidden gem offering a menu of European-style culinary art and a relaxed environment for alfresco dining.
CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen [$20-$35] – A popular spot for casual dining, offering hearty meals, gourmet burgers, and a wide range of New Zealand craft beers in a lively, cozy, and unpretentious setting.
Oppies Fish & Chips And Chinese Takeaway [$15-$25] – A high-rating spot in food magazines, famous for its fresh, simple, and delicious classic Kiwi fish and chips, a true local favourite for laid-back meals.
River’s Catch [$15-$25] – Famous for its classic, no-frills Kiwi fish and chips, it’s a favourite with locals for its fresh, simple, and delicious laid-back meals.
Cobb & Co. [$20-$35] – A welcoming, value-for-money restaurant franchise offering all-day dining with a menu of traditional Kiwi classics and familiar favourites, great for families.
The Good Eastern Taphouse [$20-$35] – Born from a love of great food, great beer, and a passion for the outdoors, offering a relaxed environment to enjoy hearty dishes and a wide selection of craft beers.
Duke’s Restaurant & Bar [$25-$40] – For 125 years, this restaurant has been entertaining locals and visitors alike with its classic décor and relaxed atmosphere for an enjoyable Kiwi dining experience.
Lone Star Rotorua [$25-$40] – A top-notch restaurant that offers a warm welcome and a menu centered around original Kiwi classics, aiming to provide an exceptional dining experience.
Bold Flavours Bistro & Café [$20-$35] – A fully licensed bistro offering bold, fresh flavors served all day, known for its authentic Kiwi cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Fainting Goat [$20-$35] – A spot with a menu designed for sharing, offering playful plates and a good selection of drinks, perfect for a casual outing with friends or family.
The Terrace Kitchen [$25-$40] – Known for making everything from scratch, using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, with some even grown in their own backyard, offering fresh and creative dishes.
Capers Café + Store [$15-$25] – A centrally located Rotorua institution, celebrated by locals for its excellent coffee, extensive cabinet food, fresh salads, and a focus on wholesome, quality ingredients.
Artisan Cafe [$15-$25] – A top brunch spot focusing on locally sourced ingredients handmade into delicious options, with excellent catering to coeliac and vegan dietary requirements.
Ciabatta Cafe & Bakery [$15-$25] – Famous for the smell of freshly baked bread, offering Swiss delights with a Kiwi touch, unique sandwiches like the “Long Dog,” and celebrated for its cronuts.
Henry & Ted [$15-$25] – Specializes in light meals and is quite popular among local office workers and those seeking fresh, delicious cafe fare.
Picnic Cafe Rotorua [$15-$25] – A small gem offering a great place to enjoy a little time out and excellent food, with a focus on fresh and easy options.
Atticus Finch [$30-$50] – Located in Eat Streat, this spot delivers modern, share-style dining with creative dishes and bold flavours, boasting a “speakeasy meets metropolitan bistro” vibe.
Urbano Bistro [$30-$50] – A versatile establishment that transitions seamlessly from a chic cafe during the day to a modern restaurant at night, known for its sophisticated and contemporary New Zealand cuisine.
Barrel & Co. Bar And Grill [$35-$55] – Located in the Pullman Rotorua, it offers a modern Kiwi dining experience with a farm-to-table philosophy, centering around hearty grill favourites and sophisticated ambiance.
ANI’s Gin Bar and Tapas [$30-$50] – Leads the way in blending tradition with innovation, offering modern Māori kai tapas featuring native botanicals like kawakawa and horopito, paired with an impressive gin selection.
Abracadabra Cafe & Bar [$25-$45] – Located in a charming 1940s house, it offers a unique and groovy atmosphere with a bohemian feel and a menu of fresh, locally sourced food with a distinct Kiwi style.
El Mexicano Zapata Cantina [$25-$45] – An award-winning, lively spot that provides vibrant, authentic Mexican food, from tacos and enchiladas to famous margaritas.
Sabroso Restaurant [$30-$50] – A cozy, rustic, and authentic Latin American gem that has been delighting patrons with vibrant Latin American and Caribbean cuisine since 2007.
Yamato Japanese Restaurant [$25-$45] – An unassuming Japanese gem tucked away in the heart of the city, known for its authentic cuisine, focusing on delivering perfection and using the freshest ingredients.
Mekong Buffalo Restaurant [$25-$45] – Creatively blends the best flavours from various Asian cuisines into their own mouth-watering fusion dishes, offering an innovative take on Asian food.
The Thai Restaurant [$25-$40] – A top choice for fragrant curries, stir-fries, and traditional Thai flavours, a local go-to for authentic, aromatic Thai food.
Sichuan Style Restaurant 重庆味道 [$20-$35] – Offers truly authentic Sichuan cuisine and characteristic snacks, known for its warm and thoughtful service and super delicious, authentic taste.
Chimney Indian Restaurant [$20-$35] – A popular spot for delicious tandoori, Indo-Chinese dishes, and curries of North and South India, offering a range of traditional Indian cuisine.
Ali Baba’s Tunisian Cuisine [$15-$30] – A delightful family-owned eatery that offers authentic Tunisian cuisine, including falafel kebabs, gourmet pizzas, and lamb kascrute.
Leonardo’s Italian Food & Wine [$35-$55] – Offers authentic Italian cuisine, with the owner having lived in Italy for 25 years, focusing on fresh, organic ingredients, and classic family recipes.
Capizzi Wood Fired Pizzeria [$20-$40] – Specializes in high-quality, time-tested pizza recipes cooked in a wood-fired oven to enhance the flavour, a local favourite for authentic pizza.
The Mains Restaurant – On The Point [$70-$120] – A luxurious fine dining experience with stunning lake views, where the creative culinary team crafts seasonal menus from ingredients grown in their own gardens and locally sourced produce.
The Regent Room Restaurant & Bar [$60-$100] – An award-winning, chic, and stylish dining destination offering an exquisite array of contemporary New Zealand cuisine, refined cocktails, and an exceptional boutique wine selection.
Mokoia Restaurant & Bar [$60-$90] – Located at the Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort, this award-winning restaurant offers relaxed fine dining with a unique blend of Pacific Rim cuisine.
Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar [$60-$90] – A unique dining experience perched high atop Mount Ngongotaha, accessible by gondola, offering an extensive buffet with local and international dishes alongside an incredible panoramic view.
Ambrosia Restaurant and Bar [$50-$80] – Rotorua’s very first licensed restaurant, located within a short stroll from Lake Rotorua, offering a sophisticated and elegant dining experience.
Te Puia Pātaka Kai Hāngī Experience [$50-$90+] – More than just a meal, this is an authentic cultural experience where food is slow-cooked beneath the earth using natural geothermal steam (hāngī), combined with Māori storytelling and performance.
Rotorua Night Market [$10-$30] – Every Thursday evening, Rotorua’s Tutanekai Street transforms into a bustling hub of international street food, offering a fantastic way to taste a little bit of everything in a lively, local atmosphere.
Steam Box Cooking [$10-$25] – A truly unique local experience where you can purchase pre-prepared meals (like mussels, corn, or vegetables) and cook them using the natural steam vents in the Whakarewarewa Village.
Lady Jane’s Ice Cream Parlour [$5-$15] – A Rotorua classic for decades, offering a sweet treat that is loved by families and locals, the perfect stop for a dessert.
Gourmet Food Stalls at Markets [$10-$25] – Beyond the Night Market, local weekend markets often feature excellent food stalls for a casual, high-quality, and local-centric meal or snack.
The Greenhouse Kitchen & Bar [$30-$50] – Bright with a distinctive art-school ambience, it’s a must-visit eatery for foodies and nature enthusiasts, focusing on fresh ingredients and a welcoming environment.
Devon Sea Foods [$20-$40] – Known for its high-quality, absolutely fresh seafood, with various cooking methods available, a great option for seafood lovers in the city.
Golden BBQ Seafood Restaurant [$25-$45] – A well-regarded seafood restaurant known for its top-notch dishes and quite good environment, popular for private dining for groups of friends.
Jinfu BBQ and Seafood Restaurant [$25-$45] – Offers top-notch dishes in a nice environment, with options for both hall dining and private rooms, specializing in BBQ and seafood.
House of Spice [$25-$45] – Provides a high-end option of authentic ambience, traditional stylings, and delectable Indian cuisine for a more refined ethnic dining experience.
Valentines [$20-$40] – A value-for-money buffet restaurant franchise that offers all-day dining, providing a wide variety of food options for those with a big appetite.
Mac’s Steakhouse [$35-$60] – A premium steak restaurant in the heart of Rotorua, offering a quality steak experience in a homely and comfortable environment.
Okere Falls Store + Craft Beer Garden [$15-$30] – Located outside the main city center, this legendary local spot is known as New Zealand’s first craft beer garden and offers excellent casual food and local vibes.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Fainting Goat: A relaxed gastrobar in the city center known for its innovative dishes and a “killer cocktail list,” as well as a great selection of craft beers. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for shared platters and drinks.
Regent Room Restaurant and Cocktail Bar: Located in the Regent of Rotorua hotel in the city center, this chic and stylish venue is an award-winner, offering contemporary New Zealand cuisine and an extensive selection of exquisite cocktails and tapas.
SOBAR & CAFE: A popular spot on Eat Streat, this lively bar is known for having a good happy hour and a fun, vibrant atmosphere with live music and local Kiwi staff. It offers an excellent selection of craft beers, wines, and pre-dinner nibbles alongside its cocktails.
Duke’s Bar & Restaurant: Situated in the central Prince’s Gate Hotel, this long-established bar has entertained locals and visitors for over 125 years. The classic, relaxed décor sets the scene for enjoying a variety of beverages, including a nice selection of cocktails.
Poco Tapas & Wine: A stylish, intimate venue in the central area offering fabulous cocktails alongside delicious tapas, superb wines, and a selection of New Zealand craft beers.
ANI’s Gin Bar & Tapas: Located centrally, this unique spot is 100% Māori-owned and focuses on showcasing New Zealand-sourced ingredients and produce in its tapas and, as the name suggests, a fine selection of gins and gin-based cocktails.
Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar: Accessible via the Skyline Gondola, this bar sits high on the side of Mount Ngongotaha. It offers the perfect spot for classic cocktails with sensational panoramic views overlooking Lake Rotorua and the city.
CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen: Found on Eat Streat, this unpretentious and lively venue, whose initials stand for Craft Bar and Kitchen, is known for its wide range of craft beers but also features a full bar for classic cocktails and offers hearty food.
The Rotorua International: A centrally located bar on Eat Streat, this spot is famous for its novelty teapot cocktail—a must-try for groups—and provides a great atmosphere for afternoon drinks.
BREW | Craft Beer Pub: The home of Croucher Brewing, this popular gastropub on Tutanekai Street focuses heavily on its own craft beers and other New Zealand brews, but you can also find standard mixed drinks and a lively, social vibe.
Pig & Whistle Historic Pub: A cornerstone of the Rotorua pub scene, this historic landmark in a striking 1940s building in the city center offers a warm atmosphere, a roaring fire, and serves a wide range of New Zealand craft beers and wines alongside great pub fare.
Hennessy’s Irish Bar: Right in the heart of Rotorua, this is an authentic Irish bar known for its warm welcome, serving New Zealand’s best Guinness, and a great spot for enjoying a pint while watching sports or listening to live music.
Black Label Barbecue: Rotorua’s genuine low & slow BBQ joint, which also serves as a great local hot spot for a cold beer, a good whiskey, or a simple cocktail to accompany their authentic barbecue dishes in the central area.
Crates N Cues Bar: Located centrally, this is a fun, entertainment-focused venue perfect for a night out with friends, featuring pool tables, darts, karaoke, and a full bar offering cocktails and classic drinks.
Our Backyard Pub: Situated next to Reading Cinemas on Eruera Street, this is a long-established local pub known for its casual dining, classic pub menu, and a great selection of beers and spirits in a relaxed atmosphere.
Lava Bar: Considered a primary late-night venue in Rotorua, located on Arawa Street, it offers a more traditional nightclub vibe with music for dancing and is a popular choice for visitors and those looking to party late. (Club)
iKandi: A dedicated nightclub venue on Pukuatua Street in the Rotorua CBD, suggesting a focus on dancing, DJs, and a high-energy, late-night atmosphere. (Club)
Heaven and Hell Nightclub: A centrally located nightclub on Arawa Street, the name suggests a high-energy dance and party spot, likely featuring DJs and a late closing time. (Club)
Sidepocket: A nightclub venue on Hinemoa Street, likely catering to a late-night crowd looking for music and dancing, offering an alternative clubbing experience in the city. (Club)
TEAZAR Lounge Bar & Night Club: Located on Eruera Street, this venue combines a lounge atmosphere with a late-night club environment, offering a mix of relaxation and high-energy dancing. (Club)
Rotorua Social Club: Open late in the central city, this venue functions as a café and restaurant by day but transforms into a bar and late-night party spot with a relaxed, sociable atmosphere, often featuring live music. (Club/Live Music)
Ruck ‘n Maul Sports Bar & Grill: Rotorua’s premier Sports Bar on Amohia Street is a great central spot to watch live events on big screens, but its very late closing time (3:00 am) often makes it a high-energy, late-night venue for drinks and socialising after the games. (Club/Sports Bar)
Level 13 Theme Rooms and Bar: This venue in the central area offers a unique and quirky experience with fantasy and Steampunk-themed décor. While often used for private events, it serves as a funky bar and nightlife spot that stays open late for themed entertainment. (Club/Theme Bar)
Barrel & Co.: Located in the heart of Rotorua on Arawa Street, this stylish restaurant/bar has a modern atmosphere. While focusing on grill favourites and dining, its bar area and sophisticated setting make it a great choice for late-night drinks and conversation. (Club/Bar)
Kalah Bar: Located slightly outside the immediate city center in Ngongotaha, this bar offers a local, community-focused late-night venue, providing a relaxed spot for a drink away from the central hub. (Club/Bar)