Things to do in Rotorua

Best Things to do in Rotorua

Planning a trip and wondering about the top things to do in Rotorua? From historic landmarks to modern experiences, the city offers something for every traveller, making it a perfect getaway in 2026.

With over 112 activities in Rotorua, there is plenty to explore. Visit some of the most popular tourist attractions in , including iconic sites, vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural hubs. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, sampling local delicacies or relaxing at scenic spots, every corner has something new to discover.

With experiences starting at INR 955, it’s never been easier to plan your perfect trip. Make the most of your visit to Rotorua in January and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Top Things to Do in Rotorua for a Trip Full of Geothermal Wonders and Culture

About Rotorua

Rotorua is one of those places where the ground doesn’t sit still. You’ll see steam rising from random corners, hot pools bubbling away, and geysers putting on a show. It’s equal parts calm and powerful, and you feel that mix as you walk through the city.

Some of the most popular Rotorua tourist attractions are Te Puia with its geysers, the tall redwoods of Whakarewarewa Forest, and Lake Rotorua sitting quietly at the centre. Together, they bring out the side of the city that’s about nature, culture, and everyday life.

So whether you’re soaking in hot pools, biking through forest trails, or watching a cultural performance, there are plenty of things to do in Rotorua that stick with you long after the trip ends.

Unique Experiences

Zipline Through Ancient Redwood Forest Canopy

You can soar through the tops of towering redwoods, feel the forest around you, and ride on a zipline that threads through trees older than most city streets. It’s one of the more unusual things to do in Rotorua, and for good reason.

• Where: Ancient Redwood Forest, just outside Rotorua
• Pricing: It starts from INR 10,000 per person
• Timing: About 3 hours total; slots available from 7:00 AM to 4:45 PM
• When to Visit: All year round, but the forest feels its best in spring and autumn

Toa Luau at Waimea Valley

You can paddle beneath steaming cliffs and vibrant geothermal features, then step ashore and wander hand-in-hand through one of the world’s youngest volcanic valleys. It’s one of the best things to do in Rotorua if you’re after movement, mystery, and a touch of Maori landscape lore.

• Where: Waimangu Volcanic Valley, just outside Rotorua
• Pricing: It starts from INR 12,000 per person
• Timing: Around 3 hours total; slots available at 5:00 AM and 12:30 PM
• When to Visit: Spring through autumn, when the weather is stable and the geothermal views are stunning

Kaituna River White Water Rafting

If you’re after a real thrill, rafting on the Kaituna River is hard to beat. The trip takes you through lush forest and down exciting rapids, including the famous 7-metre Tutea Falls — the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall. It’s one of those activities in New Zealand that mixes adrenaline with incredible scenery.

• Where: Kaituna River, near Rotorua (pick-up available from central Rotorua)
• Pricing: It starts from INR 6,900 per person
• Timing: Tours run daily at 8:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 3:30 PM (about 3 hours total, with 50 minutes on the river)
• When to Visit: Year-round; summer (December to March) is warmest, but winter tours are equally popular with fewer crowds

Top Attractions

Whakarewarewa Forest (Redwoods)

You can step into towering redwoods that feel far from New Zealand’s city buzz. The trails are easy to follow, whether you’re walking, biking, or just taking in the stillness. It’s one of the Rotorua tourist attractions that never feels rushed.

• Where: Long Mile Road, Rotorua
• Pricing: Free entry; canopy walk tickets extra (from INR 1,800 approx.)
• Timing: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for the visitor centre and canopy walk
• When to Visit: All year round, but autumn colours in March to May make the forest glow

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

You can wander through colourful geothermal pools, steaming craters, and the famous Champagne Pool. It’s one of the top things to do in Rotorua if you want to see nature at its most dramatic.

• Where: 30 km south of Rotorua, on State Highway 5
• Pricing: It starts from INR 2,800 per person
• Timing: Daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry 3:45 PM)
• When to Visit: Mornings are best, when the Lady Knox Geyser is set off around 10:15 AM

Lake Rotorua

You can walk the edge, take a short cruise, or just sit and watch the black swans drift across the water. It’s one of the calmest things to do in Rotorua, and the backdrop of steaming vents around the shoreline makes it unlike any other lake.

• Where: Central Rotorua
• Pricing: Free to visit
• Timing: Open all day, every day
• When to Visit: Early mornings or evenings for quieter walks and softer light

Sightseeing Tours

Twilight Kayak & Glowworm Tour

You can paddle through native bush as stars come out and glowworms light up the rocks around you, and it flips things to do in Rotorua at night into something quietly spectacular.

• Where: Auckland, New Zealand
• Pricing: It starts from INR 28,000 per person
• Timing: About 8 hours; starts at 1:30 PM
• When to Visit: Year-round, though autumn evenings feel especially cool and clear for glowworm views

Explore the Lakes Tour (Half Day)

You can take a minibus ride around Rotorua’s best lakes, stopping at Hamurana Springs, Tutea Falls, Blue and Green Lakes, and more. It’s one of the fun things to do in Rotorua when you want nature, light walking, and scenic views.

• Where: 1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua
• Pricing: It starts from INR 7,900 per person
• Timing: Around 4 hours total; typically starts at 8:30 AM
• When to Visit: Best in summer or autumn, when skies are clear and trails aren’t damp

Day Trips

Taupō Day Trip: Wai-O-Tapu or Orakei Korako

You can venture beyond Rotorua, explore a geothermal wonder and choose either Wai-O-Tapu or Orakei Korako, then visit Huka Falls and see Lake Taupō too. It’s one of the best things to do in Rotorua when you want heat, water, and a whole new scene.

• Where: Rotorua, New Zealand
• Pricing: It starts from INR 14,500 per person
• Timing: About 7 hours total; starts at 9:00 AM
• When to Visit: Spring or autumn, because of less rain, better light, and easier walking

Hobbiton Day Tour from Rotorua with lunch at Hobbiton

You can step into the Shire, wander around hobbit holes, and feel like part of that world for a little while. It’s one of the things to see and do in Rotorua, especially if you’re open to gentle fantasy woven into the day.

• Where: 1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua
• Pricing: It starts from INR 12,200 per person
• Timing: Around 7 hours total; starts at 8:15 AM
• When to Visit: Any time of year, but mornings feel serene before crowds build

Boat Tours

Katoa Jet Boat Tour on Lake Rotorua

You can cling on as the jet boat zips across the lake while you catch glimpses of Mokoia Island, Sulphur Bay, and Kawaha Point. It’s one of those fun things to do in Rotorua when you want a quick thrill with a view.

• Where: 1 Lakefront Drive, City Lakefront
• Pricing: It starts from INR 5,800 per person
• Timing: 30 minutes total; slots available from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• When to Visit: Year-round, but spring and autumn mornings are especially clear

Getting Around

• Walking: You can easily walk between cafes, shops, and the lakefront because the city centre is compact. It’s one of the fun things to do in Rotorua if you enjoy seeing daily life up close.
• Cycling: You can rent a bike and ride through town or take on the Whakarewarewa Forest trails. It’s both an easy way to get around and one of those activities that doubles as an adventure.
• Local buses: Buses connect most neighbourhoods with the city centre. They’re budget-friendly and make it simple to reach different Rotorua tourist attractions without needing a car.
• Taxis and private cars: If you’re short on time, this is the fastest way to reach hot pools, geysers, and lakes outside the main hub.
• Tours with pickup: Many guided tours include hotel transfers, which saves planning and lets you focus on your list of things to do in Rotorua.
• Shuttles to trails and lakes: Handy if you’re going mountain biking or heading to less central lakes.

Traveller Tips

• Pack layers: The weather in Rotorua can switch quickly. Having a jacket handy means you won’t miss out on outdoor walks or evening hot pools while exploring different things to do in Rotorua.
• Start your days early: Many geothermal parks open around 8:30 AM and close by late afternoon. If you’re fitting in the Rotorua top 10 things to do, mornings give you the most space before crowds arrive.
• Respect local culture: Many Rotorua tourist attractions are built around Māori history and traditions. Covering up a little and listening to your guide goes a long way.
• Carry some cash: Not every food stall or small market will take cards. Handy if you’re grabbing street snacks or joining in small local activities.
• Stay open to surprises: Some of the best things to do in Rotorua won’t be on your list like walking into a night market, hearing live music on the street, or being invited to a hangi dinner.