Photo taken by: Derek Craddock (Flying Kiwi Traveller)
About Rotorua - what to see and do
Rotorua - Tour Highlights
Rotorua is incredibly rich in geothermal activity and culture and definitely worthwhile visiting. You will marvel at steamy vents on the roadside, the intense smell of sulphur, see bubbling mud pools and geysers and learn more about New Zealand’s unique culture. There is no other city in the country more dynamic than Rotorua.
Situated in the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal volcanic country, Rotorua is so incredibly rich in geothermal activity and culture that it is definitely worthwhile visiting. You will marvel at steamy vents on the roadside, the intense smell of sulphur, see bubbling mud pools and geysers and learn a bit more about our unique culture. There is simply no other city in New Zealand this dynamic as Rotorua. But wait.. there’s more!
Rotorua boasts a world class mountain bike park that is free for all users and has dozens of excellent trails to suit any level from beginners to ‘hard-outs’. For those interested in a more sedate experience there are plenty of naturally heated hot pools; seems pretty appropriate when visiting such a unique city famous for it’s geothermal activity!
Where we stay:
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park – The best place to experience the most active geothermal area of our country. It offers us the opportunity to deep in thermal pools, and its proximity to the Pohutu Geyser it’s only one of its delights.
- Free hot mineral thermal pools
- Swimming pool (seasonal)
- On-site café
- Free access to 9-hole golf course
- Laundry
- Internet access
- Cabin upgrade
Things not to miss:
Rotorua is rich in geothermal activity so why not take the opportunity to swim in a naturally heated hot pool? There are a number of them in the area for you to explore.
Things to do:
Sculptured from volcanic activity and thousands of years in the making, Wai-O-Tapu is considered to be New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse geothermal sightseeing attraction. You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape where the key to what you see lies below the earth’s surface. This is one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand and completely FREE when travelling with Flying Kiwi.
|
|
Free Things to Do:Can you imagine a hissing, bubbling and steaming geothermal activity right in the heart of the city? See it in Kuirau Park! |
Insiders Tip:
Night and weekend markets. If you like the ambience, smells and colours you can sense in the markets, you should visit the Thursday night or Saturday morning markets at Kuirau Park.
|
|
Hiking Options:There is a great walking trail that circles the town and lakefront of Rotorua. Packed full of interesting geothermal features, the government gardens and Rotorua’s nature and heritage trail wind around the lakefront. Here you can spot black swans and is a perfect, well-marked trail for those who want to learn more about this incredible city by foot. |
Cycle Options:
Redwoods Mountain Bike Forest – - Pick any trail that appeals and do as little or as much as you like. Fantastic and interesting trails with lots of variety throughout the forest. (allow 1-3hrs)
The Te Ara Ahi Cycle Trail – - Another option targeted toward those more interested in a leisurely ride. This trail also visits geothermal and cultural features. Perfect for those not doing any optional activities on this day.