At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Rotorua is known for its volcanic wonders and rich Maori culture. Be captivated by a geothermal wonderland, intriguing Maori villages, thrilling adventure activities and stunning landscapes. Get up close to spectacular geysers and crater lakes. Rejuvenate your skin with a relaxing mud bath. Or pamper yourself with a soak in a natural hot stream.
![Two people on bikes riding through a white entrance arch](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-entrance-bikes.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=04c4b70adb6a68f08180cad2ebc54ffa)
![Maori women preparing food in a forest](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/Maori-tradition-bay-of-plenty-rotorua-miles-holden.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=b92940fdddc95b20f3e0d62f594bf419)
Highlights
Rotorua, a Maori word meaning "second lake", was originally settled by the Maori of the Te Arawa iwi. It is surrounded by many beautiful, small lakes and is renowned for its geothermal activity and Maori culture. The central city is easy to explore on fooot or by bike and you can explore the thermal reserve which features bubbling mud pools and vibrant hot lakes.
![Two people on a swing bridge high up in a forest of green trees](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/partner/see-and-do/nz_Rotorua_Canopy_Tours.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=1b65d2cbb2638e786fd716745f20261b)
![A couple walking in a dense forest with sunlight streaming through](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/rotorua-forest-walk-bay-of-plenty-miles-holden.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=07fad063c779aec63e44820fa329f22c)
Take a bike ride past major geothermal attractions and stop along the way for a dip in a natural hot river. Or visit a Maori village and learn about how they incorporate geothermal activity into their everyday lives.
Rotorua offers a range of options for swimming or relaxing in the magnificent thermal waters. Warm-up in a natural lakeside hot pool, stand under a hot waterfall, or float under the Milky Way in a hot stream. The city also features several luxurious thermal spas.
![Smiling man and woman in a volcanic mud pool](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/rotorua-bay-of-plenty-miles-holden.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=8f24fc9b78a9ebe963334a504f13a4b2)
![Family watching smoke rise out of a volcanic mountain](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/volcanic-activity-bay-of-plenty-miles-holden.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=85856c11dc79dec32b3763ae78eff36b)
Maori Culture
Rotorua is a place of great significance when it comes to gaining a deep understanding of Maori culture and history. Many famous Maori legends and stories are based in this area including Hinemoa and Tutanekai, perhaps New Zealand's most famous love story about the beautiful Pink and White Terraces that were destroyed in the Mt Tarawera eruption.
Rotorua is the heartland of New Zealand Maori culture
Visit a Maori village, taste the food, hear stories and traditions of the past, and be amazed by beautiful song and dance.
![Maori culture | New Zealand holiday](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/blog/maori-cultuur-nieuw-zeeland-rondreis-12.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=137615c8de929446e9e0ae993af6f373)
![A Maori woman and a tourist face to face greeting](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/General-activities/header_3995_One_Cast_Adventures6.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=1000&q=80&w=750&s=018a884b7a35af163304304ab5adaf40)
Whakarewarewa, The Living Maori village
It is the home of the Tuhourangi - Ngati Wahiao people, who have been sharing their stories for hundreds of years. Experience the unique culture, heritage and eco-system of the village. See how geothermal waters were used to cook, bathe and do the washing in Maori homes.
![A man and woman standing against a tree holding fishing spears](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/General-activities/header_3995_One_Cast_Adventures5.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=013bd0916e1b55123fe6aa458b602241)
![Discover the Maori culture | New Zealand holiday](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/example-itinerary/maori-cultuur-nieuw-zeeland-rondreis-7.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=aeb2265b9402d88fc32f8c8cfaedd48b)
Geothermal activity
Rotorua is a volcanic phenomenon with extraordinary landscapes and incredible geothermal attractions - each with its unique features, rare flora and fauna, and all rich in Maori history.
Sitting within the Pacific Rim of Fire, the region has one of the world’s most active geothermal fields. The legendary Pohutu Geyser in Te Puia, just five minutes from Rotorua city central, erupts to a height of 30 metres up to 20 times a day. The pungent smell of sulphur and clouds of steam from volcanic activity is a natural part of life in Rotorua.
![Green plants that are in a coil shape](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-flora-and-fauna.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=1000&q=80&w=750&s=f5e44cdd7e9507487c729b7e3bec2907)
![White smoke coming out of a geyser on a sunny day](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-geyser-smoke.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=f25ee45dc22f6c247275a9939a01e04d)
"My first trip to Rotorua has been incredibly memorable because of all the Volcanic activity. You can see mud pools, geysers, silica terraces and so much more at every corner which is simply breathtaking."
Nicole, travel specialist
Things to do
Rotorua packs a punch with things to do from enchanting geysers and adrenaline-pumping activities. One of the best ways to truly appreciate the magical landscape is to take a scenic flight and step foot onto the summit of Mount Tarawera. Or soak up the scenery with a floatplane flight over Lake Rotoiti and enjoy a water landing. Then relax in secluded hot pools usually only accessible by boat or a five-hour walk.
![Three people standing on a mountain peak with a helicopter behind them](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-volcanic-air-peak-Miles-Holden.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=759e4bad85829300cccb143b4dfec031)
![View of lush green forest surrounding a beautiful lake](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/example-itinerary/nz-lake-rotorua.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=3962e3fb96d7566ddd8e2d52fbb93aed)
Raft down a waterfall
Get your heart pumping with a rafting adventure going over the edge of a seven-metre high waterfall. And live to tell the tale. This amazing feat requires no rafting experience. All you need is a sense of humour, adventure and a change of clothes.
![Two men standing on a viewing deck surrounded by green forest and looking at a blue volcanic valley](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotrua-Waimangu-Volcanic-Valley-Miles-Holden.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=58b86575c4af5624d024e797479823a2)
![Waterfall in a lush green native forest](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-kaituna-waterfall.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=20c3fbb15909c9cba024d2726d3b4489)
Zip-line through an ancient forest
Walk across 20-metre-high suspension bridges and experience pure exhilaration as you zip-line your way around the 119-year-old native forest. Breathe in the fresh air and feel the joy of being so close to nature. At night, you can head to Redwoods Tree-walk for a display of light and colour on the Redwoods Nightlights tour.
Mountain bike
Mountain bike 200 kilometres of trails at the world-famous Whakarewarewa Forest. Prepare for epic rides through towering trees and fresh forest air. The forest is well known for the magnificent Californian Coast Redwoods and combined with other tree species, makes it an invigorating atmosphere.
![](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/partner/see-and-do/nz-north-rotorua-Rotorua_Canopy_Tours-zipline.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=a3d5ce533ba77361214470a876043f4a)
![Two people on mountain bikes riding through steam in a volcanic area](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-mountain-biking-steam.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=f3db3a2dbdd1ce140a0cc05af04f961c)
Be enlightened by Maori culture with local guides. Cruising in a 4WD Land Rover, you will travel from Lake Rotorua… read more
Venture deep into the ancient New Zealand forest - surfing. Spend an adventurous day amongst nature in Dansey Road… read more
![Jumping dolphins in Kaikoura | New Zealand wildlife](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/family/landingspage/nz-south-dolphins-kaikoura-family-teenagers-header.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=1400&q=80&w=1400&s=cd9d11a08534bfdbdd488b5ff00da058 1400w, https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/family/landingspage/nz-south-dolphins-kaikoura-family-teenagers-header.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=800&q=80&w=800&s=a52cc064aa77f8c658a24c7051bd3052 800w, https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/family/landingspage/nz-south-dolphins-kaikoura-family-teenagers-header.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=500&q=80&w=500&s=27e7c44e7306ae4029cc602cbd9f1dc4 500w)
Get inspired for your dream holiday to New Zealand
Join one of our live and informative presentations, hosted by one of our travel specialists. And find out how to travel to New Zealand in a uniquely local way. There are also plenty of opportunities to ask questions!
Register nowNearby Towns
Hamurana
Hamurana is a popular spot located 15 kilometres northeast of Rotorua and is renowned for its stunning Hamurana Springs. Walk through a Redwood grove with beautiful views of the crystal clear stream and don't be surprised by the trout popping out of the water.
Murupara
If hunting and fishing are on your bucket list, Murupura is the place to be. The sleepy timber town sits at the edge of the Kaingaroa Forest which was planted in the early 1900s. At 2.900 square kilometres, Kaingaroa is the largest plantation forest in the southern hemisphere.
![White steam coming out of a hot spring](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-volcanic-activity.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=ee185adbfa65bfa5ea4a945ef4d5537f)
![Green forest surrounding a hot spring with white steam flowing out of it](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-hot-springs.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=f1db03382d9332d3872922222de03a03)
Lake Rotoiti
Lake Rotoiti (“the small lake”) is a relatively large lake east of Rotorua and has the Manupiria Hot Springs on its shores. At the far end of Rotoiti is Hinehopu (Hongi's) track. It is a two-kilometre track that takes one and a half hours to walk. The track is a pleasant walk through a native forest with important historic and cultural value.
Okere Falls
Okere Falls is approximately 20 kilometres north of Rotorua and sits on the shores of Lake Rotoiti, at the inlet to the Kaituna River. This section of the Kaituna River is extremely popular with rafters and kayakers due the rapids and waterfalls.
![Two women and a dog on stand up paddle boards on a lake](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-lake-rotoiti-Rotorua-Paddle-Boards-Miles-Holden.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=a550e1870f207983f10c5f6755cbdfab)
![Kids jumping off a deck into the lake](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/miscellaneous/lake-rotoiti.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=c316e824ecd9f9abe4efb46b77e65144)
Best travel time
Rotorua is a great destination to visit all year round. The peak season is in summer (December to March) when there are long hours of sunlight to enjoy sightseeing and outdoor explorations. If you want to avoid crowds, Spring (September to December) is the best time to visit.
There are plenty of winter (June to September) activities to appreciate such as a hot soak at a Polynesian Spa or a visit to galleries, and restaurants and doing some shopping.
![Two men walking on a path in a forest with the sun setting in the background](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-Waimangu-Volcanic-Valley-Miles-Holden.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=7a3330939165d34c56ae60f2be9e08ee)
![A group of people hiking through a barren mountain valley](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-hiking-friends.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=2bfc717585afbaa0c30c5f3eb75655e6)
How to get there
Being centrally located on the North Island, Rotorua is one of the most accessible cities to get to. Air New Zealand flies daily to Rotorua Airport from Auckland and Wellington on the North Island, and Christchurch on the South Island. Travelling to Rotorua city centre from the airport is an easy ten-minute drive.
Approximate Drive Times to Rotorua from:
- Auckland - three hours
- Wellington - five hours thirty minutes
- Hamilton - one hour thirty minutes
- Taupo - one hour
- Tauranga - fifty minutes
- Napier - two hours forty minutes
![Aerial shot of a man and woman in a helicopter](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-Volcanic-Air-Miles-Holden.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=b00217b3ea54ee377330e5134cc4b093)
![A man and woman on bikes riding through a small town](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/discoverpage/nz-north-rotorua-activity-bike.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=371be3ba3366ab295c14cfb9739c2de9)
Where to stay?
Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our large collection of hand-selected accommodations located in Rotorua and beyond. Treat yourself to a luxury lodge nestled in an ancient forest. Or stay in a quaint farm cottage and enjoy views of Lake Rotorua from your private outdoor patio. Your travel specialist will match you with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself.
![A sunny living room overlooking the water](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/partner/accommodation/nz-north-rotorua-luxury-lodge-SolitaireLodge_SolitaireSuite_solitaire_lodge_10.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=612b89b3bb85c927dde4ea41afec4d57)
![A lodge situated on the edge of a lake with mountains in the background](https://cdn-travelessence.imgix.net/travelessence/new-zealand/partner/accommodation/SolitaireLodge_solitaire_lodge_6.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=750&q=80&w=1000&s=0f0406edf2b2a94d8b5f5673e0ee9a73)
Discover more
National Parks in New Zealand
New Zealand is a nature wonderland - with 13 national parks across the country, there are more than 11,000 square… read more
New Zealand
New Zealand is a country right out of the most amazing fairy tales - a land of great contrasts and diversity, it… read more
3 weeks from Otago Peninsula to Auckland South
Starting in the deep south, where accents are thick, and the landscape is vast. Dunedin, Otago Peninsula and the… read more
Tongariro National Park
Home to three active volcanic mountains, and iconic and majestic landscapes, Tongariro National Park is the oldest… read more
New Zealand cannot wait to welcome you! The feeling of excitement after you have booked a big trip is not to be… read more
Why book with us?
- A well-designed holiday, just for you
- Small-scale accommodations run by friendly local hosts
- Carefully recommended activities based on your interests
- A travel tempo and driving distances that match your needs
- Ingrained sustainability in all facets of your holiday
- 30 years of experience in travel to New Zealand
Let's design your holiday together
We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped-out itinerary from us - but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied. We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.
Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?
Discover a world beyond ordinary
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Contact us
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.