Rotorua, on the North Island of New Zealand, was attracting international visitors long before “Lord of the Rings” director Peter Jackson made the country’s landscape irresistible to the world.
Rotorua, once renowned for its spectacular Pink and White Terraces - the Earth's largest deposits of siliceous sinter, sadly lost these jewels to a disruptive volcanic eruption in the year 1886. These terraces were considered as the country's initial draws for travelers the world over.
Despite this colossal loss, Rotorua remains unbowed, transforming itself into North Island's hub for thrill seekers and adventurers. An integral stop for any North Island journey, it brings together a plethora of enchanting forests, radiant lakes, and geothermal wonders, all under a unified Maori cultural umbrella. Did you know, in fact, that Rotorua is home to 17 stunning lakes, fondly referred to by the locals as the 'Lakes of Rotorua'?
To truly soak in the essence of Rotorua, one would ideally set aside three or four days. The wonders of Rotorua are conveniently accessible, with most attractions nestled within 5 to 20 minutes of the vibrant town center. Interestingly, this region is also known for its 'rotten eggs' smell, which is merely the scent of harmless hydrogen sulphide emissions from geothermal activity.
And while you're enjoying the charms of Rotorua, there are plenty of comfortable accommodations to choose from. One popular option among travelers is the cozy and welcoming bed and breakfasts scattered across the town, offering a home away from home experience. Book them here >> http://www.northislandnz.net/en/type/bed-and-breakfasts-4/
For an additional dose of volcanic adventure, consider volcano-hopping in Auckland.
Land Adventures
Nestled in the Southern Hemisphere, the unparalleled trails await! Created by Graeme Murray, these well-trodden paths are acclaimed as the finest in the region.
The Redwoods, also known as Whakarewarewa Forest, serves as a vibrant haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels, including runners, hikers, and mountain bikers. Red Bull attests to it being a supreme arena for outdoor excursions.
With a flourishing network of over 170 kilometers of trails, maintained by a robust force of 2,500 volunteers, the forest invites an influx of more than 5,000 thrilled visitors every weekend. To ensure a seamless experience, the visitor centre offers trail maps and even "Discovery Packs for Kids".
Look no further than, Mountain Bike Rotorua to make your biking adventure a memorable triumph, catering every requisite.
Alternatively, if you seek tranquility intermingled with wonder, embark on the Rotorua Treewalk. It features the world's longest suspended bridge course, allowing travelers a serene 30-minute journey amidst 110-year-old Redwood trees via a network of 21 suspension bridges.
Experience the thrill of the majestic forest with adrenaline-pumping zip line tours at Rotorua Canopy Tours, offering an exclusive zip line canopy itinerary, the only of its kind in New Zealand.
If your venture extends to Auckland, do not miss some local insight! Check out tips shared by Auckland insiders are bound to enhance your experience.
On the water
Wakeboarding, parasailing, kayaking and white-water rafting are among several ways get down Rotorua’s Tutea Falls. At 7 meters high, it’s the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world. Thanks to the area’s abundant geothermal activity, hot pools and springs can be found on the Kaituna River and Lake Rotoiti.
Kaitiaki Adventures Aotearoa offers a unique cultural expedition on the river, which is an ancient burial site for fallen Maori warriors.
River Rats will get you rafting or kayaking on Lake Rotoiti. Both tours visit glowworm caves and the secluded Manupirua Thermal Springs.
Meanwhile, local fishing guide John at Cruise and Fish Rotorua operates fishing tours on Lake Tarawara. Bonus: You can cook your catch in the geothermal sands of Hot Water Beach.
High-end hikes step up adventure
On a mountaintop
Rushing to exhilarating velocities of nearly 150 kph, the Skyswing guarantees a surge of adrenaline.
Welcome to Tourism Rotorua.
Perched on the summit of Mount Ngongotaha, a short distance from the heart of Rotorua, you'll find Skyline Rotorua. This leisure destination offers a variety of thrilling activities such as luge rides, breathtaking stargazing sessions, and exhilarating zip-lining adventures.
As quoted from the Skyline's General Manager, Bruce Thomasen, "The luge, undeniably, is New Zealand's most loved and time-honored pastime. Born in Rotorua, it has been heartily embraced by Kiwis across generations since its inception, 31 years ago. Over the years, we have welcomed more than 18 million enthusiasts."
A trip to Gravity Park promises an unforgettable experience. This park plays host to Crankworx, the biggest mountain biking carnival globally. Moreover, visit OGO to roll downhill encapsulated within a huge plastic sphere or stop over at Agroventures for a dose of adrenaline-pumping action.
At Agroventures, you'll encounter the Swoop, a thrilling swing standing tall at 40 meters above the ground, and the Schweeb - the world's singular monorail raceway. For those seeking a spine-tingling experience, you can plunge from a height of 43 meters in a bungee jump, get the sensation of free falling in a wind tunnel, or experience a high-velocity ride on the "Agrojet", an enthralling speedboat tour.
Volcanic Activities
Hells Gate is one of the best-regarded spas in Rotorua.
Tourism Rotorua
For amazing geothermal experiences there’s Volcanic Air’s scenic flights. The most popular fly to Whakaari (White Island) and Mount Tarawera. Both are of cultural as well as geological importance to the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Tim Barrow, chief helicopter pilot and director of Volcanic Air, says many guests rate the flights as truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
“Where else can you land a helicopter on the crater floor of a permanently active island volcano and explore an almost lunar-like landscape?”
Back on land, the Rotura Bath House was a fashionable modern spa in the 19th and 20th centuries – a place to socialize and “take the cure” provided by the thermal waters.
Closed in 1966, after extensive renovations it reopened as the Rotorua Museum – or Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa. Exhibitions highlight the facility’s fascinating history as well as Nga Pumanawa o Te Arawa, or the Beating Hearts of Te Arawa, the dramatic journey of the Te Arawa Maori tribe from far across the Pacific Ocean to Rotorua.
The Polynesian Spa, located on the grounds of the Rotorua Museum, and Hells Gate, are two of the region’s most reputable spas, both featuring natural thermal hot springs.
“Our two most popular treatments are the Polynesian SpaMud Polish & Aix Massage, which is a hydrotherapy treatment, and the Polynesian Spa Purifying Mud Body Wrap,” says Gert Taljaard, CEO of Polynesian Spa.
“Both of these treatments use locally sourced Rotorua mud.”
Hiking through a Hawaiian lava tube
Maori culture
Te Puia, a Maori cultural center, is pivotal in preserving Maori traditional arts and crafts by leveraging their own tourism heritage (the Te Arawa were the region’s first tour guides).
The cultural center showcases vibrant Maoriculture in daily and nightly cultural performances.
“More than the region’s activities, the real highlight of Rotorua is the people,” says Takurua Mutu, director of Multi-Day Adventures NZ.
“Our huge Maori population is unique and ourculture isprevalent – it’s all about whanaungatanga and manaakitanga (relations and care).”
Totally Tarawera’s tours focus on a local tribe that had to relocate after the 1886 volcanic eruption but eventually moved back, reconnecting with the land.
Kaitiaki Adventures Aotearoa offers ascents to the summit of Mount Tarawera led by a Maori guide.
Wikitoria Maori Healing and Wai Ora Spa offer traditional Maori healing therapies with medicinal herbs and techniques.
It’s worth planning your trip to coincide with the Rotorua Walking Festival, the half Ironman, or the Rotorua Marathon – one of the oldest in the world.
Experience Solitude in British Columbia—
British Columbia’s Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region is a captivating retreat reserved for the intrepid few. Through Yoho Adventures’ Coast Mountain Getaway Adventure, immerse yourself in breathtaking alpine climbs, rest in remote cabins tucked away from the world, witness the majestic sight of grizzlies, and let the solitude serenade you.
Find solitude in British Columbia —
You’d be surprised to find out that the untouched wilderness of BC's Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region is merely a couple of hours by plane from the bustling city of Vancouver. However, uncovering the region's choicest spots requires a touch of expertise. That's where Yoho Adventures comes in, their Co-founder Christina Simpkins said, "We offer people exclusive access to areas they wouldn't be able to explore individually."
The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast's mesmerizing beauty, with its vast forests, towering mountains, and spectacular coastlines, offers a visually arresting spectacle to all who visit. The region, known for its abundant wildlife, also serves as a sanctuary for countless species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Yoho Adventures, with their extensive knowledge of the area, guides explorers to the most stunning, off-the-beaten-path locations, enabling them to fully immerse in the awe-inspiring natural wonders of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast. Adventure awaits you in this remarkable part of British Columbia.
In the spirit of Shackleton's daring endeavors in Antarctica—
Wilderness Travel commemorates the audacious voyage of Ernest Shackleton, the legendary polar explorer who undertook a perilous journey to rescue his stranded crew. They have curated a cruise that traverses the harsh yet spectacular landscapes of both Antarctica and South Georgia Island. Joining the adventure, renowned mountaineer Conrad Anker and inspirational photographer Frans Lanting will be adding their expertise and passion for this unforgettable journey.
Trekking Through Galapagos —
Given that a significant portion of explorers tend to view the Galapagos Islands' hidden treasures from the decks of cruise ships or day outing vessels, experiencing the islands on foot brings an exceptional perspective. This unique approach by Classic Journeys lets visitors immerse themselves in the bountifully diverse natural landscape that ignited Charles Darwin's revolutionary theories.
Embark on a Journey to Galapagos —
Experience the extraordinary Galapagos Island tour offered by Classic Journeys, complete with adventures guided by knowledgeable naturalists. You'll be taken on a variety of expeditions that include not just hiking through the pristine landscapes, but also kayaking through the azure waters and snorkeling in the rich marine environments.
Headed to Bhutan?
This glorious mountainous realm is renowned for housing some of the globe's most breathtaking peaks and ravines. Experience them firsthand via Abercrombie & Kent's 'Heart of the Himalayas' itinerary, which features a must-see visit to the spectacular Tiger's Nest Monastery. Nestled precariously on a cliff edge, this sacred place leaves visitors spellbound with its beauty and unparalleled views.
While exploring Bhutan, don't miss out on witnessing the magnificence of the Himalayan landscapes, decked with glistening snow caps, or soaking in the tranquility offered in the secluded monastic retreats. The Tiger's Nest Monastery, or Paro Taktsang, is a sublime example of Bhutan's powerful blend of spiritual tradition and natural wonder. Mechanics and engineers marvel at the architectural accomplishment of building such a large structure at such a dizzying height.
Polar bears in Norway —
In glacier-filled Svalbard, some 3,500 bears outnumber the year-round residents. Svalbard Wildlife Expeditions offers several spectacular wildlife viewing tours.
Abundant Wildlife in Namibia —
Remarkably, Namibia holds the distinction as the one African nation that has triumphed in steadily multiplying its wildlife numbers over the years. Wilderness Travel currently presents an immersive 10-day journey in June, designed to showcase the most brilliant facets of this captivating country.
Diamonds from the Wildlife in Namibia —
Positioning itself as a beacon, Namibia showcases responsible environmental guardianship and green tourism within the African continent. It's striking to note that an outstanding 40% of the entire country's territory remains safeguarded. There is an admirable initiative on the ground as local bushman tribes are actively employed to preserve the varied and magnificent fauna.
