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10 things to do in Rotorua in 2021

Heading to Rotorua? We’ve got you covered with our list of top activities and experiences for your next trip.

Courtney Edwards
Courtney Edwards

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Rotorua has something for everyone. Whether you want to soak in a mud bath, zipline across the forest or immerse yourself in Maori culture, these are our top recommendations for activities and experiences you don't want to miss when visiting Rotorua.

What's in this guide?

  1. Top things to do in Rotorua
  2. Fun things to do in Rotorua
  3. Things to do in Rotorua at night
  4. Things to do in Rotorua with kids
  5. Free things to do in Rotorua
  6. See the latest Rotorua activity deals

Top things to do in Rotorua

Visit Rotorua's thermal wonderland

One of New Zealand's most colourful and vibrant geothermal parks, Wai-O-Tapu Park should be on your list of places to visit in Rotorua. The park features mud baths, hot springs, sulfuric pools and geysers, the most famous one being the Lady Known Geyser, which erupts 10-15 metres in the air at 10:15am daily.

See the best views

Make your way to Skyline Rotorua and jump aboard the gondola to reach one of the best vantage points for views of Lake Rotorua and the city. Skyline Gondola is also a gateway for activities including the Rotorua Luge, ziplining and mountain biking. You'll find multiple dining options available here too.

Fun things to do in Rotorua

Glide over Lake Rotorua on a parasailing flight

Take in the panoramic views of Lake Rotorua and the countryside as you soar 400 feet above the water on this parasailing adventure. Choose between a solo or a tandem flight, depending on how daring you're feeling.

Experience the thrill of bungy jumping

If you're yet to tick bungy jumping off of your bucket list, now's your chance. This 42-metre bungy jump overlooks Paradise Valley and it's the ultimate thrill-seeker activity for adrenaline junkies visiting Rotorua.

Things to do in Rotorua at night

Learn about Maori culture with a Mitai Maori Village Tour

Immerse yourself in a cultural experience with one of the world's oldest remaining cultures. This evening tour features a traditional hāngi feast with poi dancing and a haka performance. You'll learn about traditional tools and weapons, tattoo art and the history of the Maori people.

Enjoy an evening kayak adventure

Put your life jacket on and paddle out onto Lake Rotoiti for a guided evening kayak tour. Learn about the myths and legends linked to the surrounding area and take in the serene views on the waterway, before kayaking to the Manupirua Hot Pools for a gourmet barbecue dinner. On the way back, you'll pass by the magical glowworm caves as the sun goes down.

Things to do in Rotorua with kids

Make a splash with a whitewater rafting adventure

Experience thrills, spills and rapids on the Kaituna River with a whitewater journey that will have you manoeuvring past boulders, steep forges and rocky rapids at an exhilarating speed. Looking for the ultimate thrill-seeking experience for kids in Rotorua? This is it.

Soar through the forest on an exciting canopy tour

Make your way through the North Island's forests on a zipline canopy tour. An experience that adventurers of all ages will enjoy, you'll be led across ziplines, swingbridges, spiral staircases and forest trails. You will also learn about New Zealand's native flora and fauna along the way.

Free things to do in Rotorua

Spend time in nature at The Redwoods Forest

The Redwoods Forest, also known as Whakarewarewa Forest, is a mecca for hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders. It is filled with Californian Redwoods, native flora and exotic trees, making it the perfect place to explore at your own pace.

Wander around the local markets

If you are in Rotorua on a Thursday or Saturday, you won't want to miss out on browsing the stalls and enjoying the live music and entertainment at the Rotorua Night Markets and the Saturday Markets. Here you'll find locally made goods including artisan foods, arts and crafts.

See the latest Rotorua activity deals

RedBalloon NZRedBalloon NZ

Wine tours from $45 in New Zealand

Available for travel on select dates. Sample price is for a cheese factory tour in Oamaru. Destinations include Queenstown, Wellington and more. T&Cs apply.

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AAT KingsAAT Kings

Up to 2.5% off holiday bookings + Extra 10% off day tours

Available on select dates until 2021 across Australia and New Zealand when you purchase 2+ tours. T&Cs apply.

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ViatorViator

Things to do in New Zealand from $9.46

Available on select dates in 2020 and 2021 in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin, Wellington and more. Activities include day tours, flight experiences, transfers, bike hires, attraction passes and more. T&Cs apply.

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