Perhaps you’ve spent the day adventure rafting a 7m waterfall, ziplining through native forest or rolling down a hill in a huge inflatable ball. Maybe you’ve been exploring Waimangu Volcanic Valley or some of the other Rotorua geothermal attractions. However you spend your day, keep a little energy in reserve, as there’s more to do after dark! Here’s a few of our favourite Rotorua evening activities…

Experience a genuine Māori welcome

Rotorua is well known for deep cultural connections, so a cultural performance and hangi meal is likely to be on your ‘Must Do’ list for things to do in Rotorua at night. Choosing which one will be the hardest part! You’ll experience fantastic food and hospitality wherever you go, and come face to face with the famous haka, poi dances and traditional waiata (songs).

Tamaki Maori Village has an interactive village display, where you can see and have a go at carving, weaving and other art forms.

The evening experience at Mitai Maori Village includes a native bush walk through to a natural spring, and there’s the option to add on a visit to the kiwi encounter at Rainbow Springs after the concert and meal.

Te Puia is based in the Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, so you’ll be able to see the famous Pohutu geyser lit up at night as part of the experience.

Walk among giant trees in the Redwoods

The Redwoods forest comes alive at night with the Redwoods Nightlights Treewalk. A magical display of designer lanterns and lights add an extra level of enchantment to the Treewalk experience. Allow 40 minutes to complete the walk at heights of up to 20 metres above the forest floor. Check the website for sunset times, it’s better to visit outside summer if you have little ones and want to get to bed early!

Top Tip – If you’re looking for a more adventurous way to see the Redwoods from above – check out the new Redwoods Altitude tour during the day.

Get a taste of local life at the markets

If you’re in town on a Thursday evening, you’re in for a treat! The Rotorua Night Market takes over Tutanekai Street, right through the centre of Rotorua CBD. The market is a great place to mix with the locals, taste a variety of different food from local retailers, shop for some locally made gifts and soak in the atmosphere with entertainment and performances. Then head down towards the lake front and you’ll find Eat Streat with a variety of bars and restaurants to continue your evening.

Take in the views from above the city

For epic panoramic views over Rotorua at night, head up Mount Ngongotaha by gondola to Skyline Rotorua.

You can ride the iconic Luge tracks at night under coloured lights, enjoy locally made wine from Volcanic Hills Winery or treat yourself to a meal at the award winning Stratosfare Restaurant. The huge buffet selection has something to delight even the fussiest of eaters. A local favourite for special occasions, this one might be worth saving for your last night in town.

Soak in a geothermal hot pool

If you’re looking for a more relaxing way to finish your day, you can’t beat a soak at Polynesian Spa. With natural spring water from two different mineral springs, Polynesian Spa is a treat for your mind and body. The Deluxe Lake Spa has more luxurious touches and is quieter than the adult pools, or for some extra indulgence, book a private pool or spa treatment.

Top Tip – Polynesian Spa doesn’t have to be an evening activity. In fact, it’s stunning first thing in the morning as the sun comes up over Lake Rotorua.

Enjoy a beer in a historic pub

The Pig & Whistle was originally built as a police station back in 1940. The iconic building in the centre of Rotorua CBD is now a historic pub serving a range of drinks and a classic pub menu. There’s live entertainment most weekends and major sports games are played on the big screens.

The good sorts at the Pig & Whistle also support the local mountain bike community, with donations made to the Rotorua Mountain Bike Club and the Rotorua Trails Trust with every pint of Moa Session Pale Ale purchased.