Five of Rotorua’s top spots for nature lovers
See a world of scenery right here in Rotorua
There’s no place on earth quite like Rotorua in New Zealand’s North Island, where steam rises from the earth, mud pools bubble away in volcanic valleys, lakes shimmer in brilliant shades of blue, and lush native bush meets towering Redwood trees. This special corner of New Zealand holds some of the world’s most unique landscapes, and here’s how to see them all.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Despite being the world’s youngest geothermal system, you’ll still feel like you’re walking back in time to a Jurassic-era New Zealand as you set off on a self-guided walk at Waimangu. Coming to life following the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption which buried the iconic Pink & White Terraces beneath Lake Rotomahana, Waimangu is a rare slice of unfiltered, virtually untouched wilderness – where a new mystery awaits around each corner. From the world’s largest hot spring to tiny bubbling spouts, brilliant-blue crater lakes to geysers erupting on the lake shores, be prepared to be amazed and wow-ed by the many geothermal wonders.
A day at Waimangu feels almost like a Choose Your Own Adventure novel, where you can pick a path through the self-guided trail, handily broken down into three sections with a shuttle bus available to skip any part of the valley. You can easily spend 2-3 hours wandering through the tranquil valley and soaking up the serenity – or tick off the highlights in just an hour.
Your journey at Waimangu isn’t complete without the 45-minute cruise across Lake Rotomahana, where a friendly local skipper shares fascinating tales of the area’s cultural and natural history – including how that infamous Tarawera eruption dramatically changed the landscape. Jump aboard the historic Ariki Moana and be delighted by the non-stop scenery – you’ll definitely want to bring your camera for this top-rated Rotorua boat trip.
As mists swirl, geysers play, and clouds of steam rise into the air, and you tune into the sounds of chirping native birds and boiling hot springs, you’ll be thinking – is this place even real? Sure is – and it’s open 7 days a week for your next Rotorua geothermal getaway.
Lake Tarawera
Lake Tarawera is a tranquil haven away from the city, popular amongst locals and visitors alike for its crystal-clear waters that reflect the mountain. Hike the 5-6 hour Tarawera Trail or take a water taxi out to Hot Water Beach, where geothermally-heated lakeside hot pools greet travellers seeking a soothing soak. Or for a different perspective, join a guided walk up Mount Tarawera for outstanding 360° views and a one-of-a-kind insight into the powerful 1886 eruption. An exhilarating run into the heart of the volcanic crater is just the thing to satisfy your adrenaline cravings.
The Redwoods
Walking into the Whakarewarewa Forest, you’re bound to have your eyes wide open and your jaw to the floor – these majestic 120+ year old trees are true giants. Get up close to these towering trees on foot or by mountain bike on the 160km network of purpose-built trails. Or after dark, head to Redwoods Nightlights for a magical night-time stroll across swing bridges and platforms suspended 20 metres up in the canopy, where a series of colourful illuminated lanterns guides your way.
Blue Lake
Just a short drive from the town centre, Blue Lake (Lake Tikitapu) offers a peaceful escape packed with pristine natural beauty. The charming lake is a playground for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, waterskiing and fishing, or simply enjoying a picnic and lapping up the scenery. A 5.5km track circles the lake, with the chorus of native birdsong providing nature’s finest soundtrack to accompany your 1.5 hour stroll through the forest. If one day of exploring doesn’t feel like enough, a campground and holiday park offer accommodation to extend your stay.
