Things to do in Rotorua
Discover the best attractions and experiences Rotorua has to offer
Historic Monuments
Rotorua's heritage comes alive through iconic carved houses, lakeside villages and early settlement ruins.
Tamatekapua Meeting House (Ohinemutu)
The iconic carved meeting house of Ohinemutu, rich in Maori legends and craftsmanship.
Ohinemutu Historic Village
A lakeside Maori settlement with historic churches and marae that tell Rotorua's early history.
Buried Village of Te Wairoa
Ruins and displays recount a volcanic eruption and the district's early colonial life.
Museums
Delve into Rotorua's culture and history through its museums and heritage centers.
Rotorua Museum (Bath House)
A historic museum housed in the Bath House on Government Gardens, highlighting local history.
Te Puia – Maori Arts and Crafts Institute
Cultural center showcasing Maori carving and weaving with live demonstrations.
The Buried Village Museum
Museum complex at Te Wairoa featuring exhibitions on Maori life and volcanic history.
Religious Monuments
Explore sacred marae and historic religious sites that reflect Rotorua's spiritual heritage.
Tamatekapua Meeting House (Ohinemutu)
A significant carved meeting house used for traditional ceremonies and gatherings.
Ohinemutu Church Site
Historic church site within the Ohinemutu area, reflecting ecclesiastical history.
Whakarewarewa Marae
A living marae where visitors can learn about Maori spirituality and hospitality.
National & Theme Parks
Explore otherworldly geothermal valleys and lush forests just outside the city.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
A colorful geothermal park with bubbling pools, cooling steam and vivid vents.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Earth’s youngest geothermal system with volcanic craters and vibrant springs.
Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
Ancient redwoods and scenic trails ideal for walking, running and biking.
Neighborhoods
Discover Rotorua's character across lakeside villages and the city center.
Ohinemutu Village
A historic lakeside Maori village with traditional carvings and cultural charm.
Rotorua CBD (Fenton Street)
The lively city center lined with shops, cafes and galleries.
Whakarewarewa Village
A living Maori village known for its geothermal landscape and culture.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Rotorua’s outdoors and cultural ambiance without an entry fee.
Government Gardens
Stroll through a historic green oasis near the lake with statues and stroll paths.
Kuirau Park
A free geothermal park with steaming vents and bubbling mud pools.
Lake Rotorua Waterfront Walk
Pleasant lakeside paths suitable for a relaxed stroll or picnic.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional Maori cuisine and modern Rotorua flavors with a local twist.
Tamaki Maori Village Hangi Dinner
An immersive Maori dining experience featuring a hangi meal and performances.
Mitai Maori Village Hangi Dinner
Traditional hangi meal paired with a celebrated Maori show.
Skyline Rotorua Stratosphere Restaurant
Dining with panoramic views atop the Skyline complex.
Nightlife
Relaxed pubs and lively bars line the town after sundown.
Fenton Street Bars & Pubs
A stretch of casual bars and eateries along Rotorua's main nightlife strip.
The Pig & Whistle Rotorua
Traditional pub with casual dining and live music on weekends.
The Civic Theatre & Events (Rotorua)
Historic venue hosting performances, concerts and shows.
Entertainment
Catch cultural shows, wildlife encounters and family-friendly performances.
Tamaki Maori Village Cultural Show
Vibrant Maori performance with traditional songs, dances and storytelling.
Mitai Maori Village Evening Show
Evening cultural show featuring live performances and cultural insights.
Agrodome Sheep Show
Entertaining farm show showcasing sheep herding and farming life.
Sports
Active adventures and outdoor thrills are a Rotorua hallmark.
Skyline Luge Rotorua
Thrilling luge ride with twists, turns and scenic views.
Redwoods Treewalk
A treetop walkway among towering redwoods for an invigorating stroll.
Whakarewarewa Forest Mountain Biking Trails
Forest trails suit beginners to advanced riders with varied terrain.
Off the Track
Ventures off the beaten path reveal Rotorua's hidden gems and natural wonders.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
A geothermal wonderland with colorful pools and steam vents.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
A living valley with volcanic craters, lakes and unique landscapes.
Mt Tarawera Crater Rim Hike
Panoramic crater rim hike offering dramatic volcanic scenery.