Top 20 Best Things to Do in Rotorua
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Top 20 Best Things to Do in Rotorua

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderlandtop_1
    󰺂8.7
    20.5
    Waiotapu26.7 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰀆Watch "Ladies Hat" geyser erupt
    󰋄Geothermal steam-cooked culinary experience
    󱨠Saved by 421 users󱨠292 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    WendylwwWendylww

    price cheaper than official website, recommended to book through trip. Always amazed by these nature places

  • Agrodometop_2
    󰺂8.4
    18.07
    Rotorua7.6 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoKiwi Farm Life Unleashed: Agrodome Farm Show & Tour in Rotorua
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Rotorua
    Highlights:
    See sheep & deer up close
    󰋄Sheep shearing & close encounters
    󱨠Saved by 158 users󱨠168 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    It's definitely suitable for kids and adults who love farms and animals! It's a little small, but we happened to arrive during a local market, and there were also free activities like inflatable castles, horseback riding, and face painting. It was very lively, and the kids had a blast. Animal exhibits include: 🐑🐐🐮🐴🦙🦌🐷🪿🦆

  • Polynesian Spatop_3
    󰺂8.1
    39.67
    Rotorua751m from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󰀆Multiple pools: 97°F to 108°F
    󱓊Hot springs & lake views
    󱨠Saved by 237 users󱨠48% positive reviews
    4.6/5
    M24***23M24***23

    Perfect, you can soak in the pavilion outside, the pool has different temperatures, authentic sulfur hot springs. There is no time limit, it is very smooth to enter, and many locals soak in it

  • Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ
    4
    󰺂7.7
    49.19
    Rotorua2.9 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱨜Geyser erupts 20 times daily
    󰀆Learn Maori carving & weaving
    󱨠Saved by 138 users󱨠41% positive reviews
    4.6/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    One of the must-do attractions in New Zealand's North Island, it is worth going. You can learn about the unique history and culture of the Maori people, and the performances are a must-see, very unique. There are also geysers and kiwi bird areas in the park, which are unforgettable.

  • Skyline Rotorua
    5
    󰺂7.5
    21.83
    Rotorua3.8 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Night Attractions in Rotorua
    Highlights:
    󰋄Near Wai-O-Tapu & Huka Falls
    󰀆3-mile scooter track & challenges
    󱨠Saved by 150 users󱨠62% positive reviews
    4.7/5
    twinsxtwinsx

    I visited it twice within two months. The buffet is good, the scenery is great, the luge is fun, and it is a must-visit place for parent-child travel. It is best to avoid holidays, otherwise be prepared. The queue for the slide is about an hour.

  • Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
    6
    󰺂7.3
    Rotorua3 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰋄Night lights illuminate Redwood Forest
    󱓊Redwood trail feels like carpet
    󱨠Saved by 133 users󱨠25% positive reviews
    4.6/5
    yccuiyccui

    Blue sky and white clouds, it's another good day! ​We visited the nearby red forest, where more than 170 different trees are planted. We learned how to identify the silver fern, a plant endemic to New Zealand. I can't help but say that New Zealand has done a great job in protecting vegetation.

  • Hells Gate
    7
    󰺂7.4
    20.99
    Rotorua12.6 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    Maori culture show at night
    󱓊Bubbling mud pools & geysers
    󱨠Saved by 118 users󱨠41% positive reviews
    4.4/5
    zhang_xiao_zhuzhang_xiao_zhu

    In Rotorua, New Zealand, I found a geothermal park with fewer tourists. There was a tour map (Chinese version) when I entered the park. I booked the tickets through Ctrip and the procedure was simple. I originally wanted to go there to make black mud, but time was too tight, so I decided to see if I would have the chance next time.

  • Lake Rotorua / Te Rotorua nui ā Kahumatamomoe
    8
    󰺂6.5
    Rotorua7.4 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Cool Water Escapes in Rotorua
    Highlights:
    󰀆Maori cultural dance show
    󱨜Lake flows in nature's backdrop
    4.7/5
    石之若璞石之若璞

    Lake Rotorua ~ the largest lake in New Zealand ~ is a volcanic lake formed after a volcanic eruption ~ there is a small island in the center of the lake ~ at first glance, it is often mistaken for the sea ~ black swans and black ducks are swimming leisurely ~ seaplanes, yachts, kayaks, local people's water leisure activities are indispensable ~

  • Mitai Maori Village
    9
    󰺂6.4
    80.77
    Rotorua4.2 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱨜Unique scenery & lush wilderness
    Maori warrior dance & poi show
    4.5/5
    M38***50M38***50

    It is recommended to arrive early to get a good seat. The Maori dance performance is pretty good. The entertainment effect is OK. The food is a buffet. Traditional Maori food. The lamb and beef are very delicious. It is recommended to go and have a look

  • Government Gardens
    10
    󰺂5.9
    Rotorua727m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱨜Hot springs & geysers marvels
    Maori legends & battle landmarks
    󱨠26% positive reviews
    4.8/5
    旅の径旅の径

    Government Gardens, located in the center of Rotorua, is the most eye-catching landmark in Rotorua. Elegant and majestic buildings. Deep in the garden's large lawn is the Rotorua Museum of History and Art. Built in 1908, the building has a pointed roof, red tiles and yellow walls. It is not high and has a wide format. It combines the Tudor architectural style and the Victorian architectural style. The building is very beautiful in architecture. The close-up and long-distance views, left and right shots are all beautiful photos. Quiet and beautiful garden. The wide lawn is green and surrounded by benches; the quiet garden is full of flowers, and the depths are hidden with exquisite buildings and sculptures. Citizens and tourists, some stroll, some daze, and some check in, are comfortable and comfortable.

Best things to do in Rotorua (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Rotorua? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Rotorua offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Rotorua

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Rotorua experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

• Waiotapu | 26.7 km from downtown

• : Watch "Ladies Hat" geyser erupt,Geothermal steam-cooked culinary experience

Agrodome

• Rotorua | 7.6 km from downtown

• : See sheep & deer up close,Sheep shearing & close encounters

Polynesian Spa

• Rotorua | 751m from downtown

• : Multiple pools: 97°F to 108°F,Hot springs & lake views

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Rotorua

If you want to explore attractions just outside Rotorua, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Rotorua, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Rotorua special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Rotorua

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Rotorua

Ready to explore the best of Rotorua? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What Best Things to Do are there in Rotorua?
These are all Best Things to Do in Rotorua:Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, Agrodome, Polynesian Spa, Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ, Skyline Rotorua
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Rotorua?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Rotorua include:Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland:4.7, Agrodome:4.7, Polynesian Spa:4.6, Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ:4.6, Skyline Rotorua:4.7
At what locations in Rotorua can Best Things to Do in Rotorua be found?
The Best Things to Do in Rotorua are mainly located in:Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland:Waiotapu, Agrodome:Rotorua, Polynesian Spa:Rotorua, Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ:Rotorua, Skyline Rotorua:Rotorua
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