Rotorua City Guide

Rotorua New Zealand is home to one of the most unique tourism sites in the world. Aside from the breathtaking scenery of this volcanic wonderland, the 16 beautiful lakes in the region and the lush green of the abundant native flora, Rotorua is a geothermal paradise and the cultural heartland.

Sightseeing takes on a whole new meaning in Rotorua. The immense power of the earth hits you square between the eyes. Rotorua is like no other place; its raw beauty is expressed by a stunning landscape. Stand upon active volcanoes, peer into massive craters - see boiling mud, exploding geysers - just some of our thermal and volcanic wonders. Enjoy unspoiled forests that cloak the land.

     

You can wander through a natural wonderland of lakes, rivers and crystal springs, simply admiring their beauty... or, get out on the water for an adrenalin fix you'll never forget, such as white water rafting, kayaking, parasailing or water skiing. Go trout fishing on one of the 14 fishable lakes... play a round of golf on a geothermal course (watch those mud pool traps!)... ride a bucking bronco...try your hand at clay bird shooting... get your backside trackside and race a high performance VW off-roader... enjoy the spectacular gondola ride to the top of a mountain and ride the luge down, - hold onto the seat of your pants, as thrills and spills are guaranteed!

Maori Legend
Rotorua was first discovered 600 years ago by a maori explorer named Ihenga. He was out hunting one day when one of his dogs disappeared chasing after a kiwi. The dog returned some time later with his coat wet, having eaten a meal of fish. Ihenga realised he must be close to water, so he searched until he discovered Lake Rotoiti and later, Rotorua.

Te Arawa people arrived on the Arawa canoe in the mid-14th century, having travelled from Hawaiki, the legendary home of all Maori in Eastern Polynesia (Hawaiki). They moved inland and settled in the Rotorua and Taupo-National Park area. The Te Arawa Maori of Rotorua began hosting visitors as far back as the nineteenth century. That is when people came from all over the world to see the Pink and White Terraces at Lake Rotomahana.

Fishing
Some describe Rotorua as the easiest place in the country to catch a fish. Because of the regions excellent reputation, anglers from all over the world relish the prospect of visiting the Rotorua Lakes. Whatever your level of angling experience and skill, the Rotorua Lakes region offers an incredibly wide range of trout fishing opportunities. There are always fish biting somewhere in the district! Many of the lakes in the area are world renowned for the quality and size of fish. Stream fishing through the centre of Rotorua, chances to catch once-in-a-lifetime trophy fish, and waters among the most scenic in New Zealand provide endless experiences to anglers. Rainbow trout are the predominant fish in most of the lakes, but Brown and Tiger trout are present in some. The Rotorua Lakes provide excellent fishing for both first-timers and experienced anglers, all within 40 minutes' drive of Rotorua city.

Volcanic Activity
Reminders of Rotoruas volcanic history are everywhere. Youll see clouds of steam magically appear around the city - giving it an incredible other worldly feel. Rotoruas 4 major thermal areas are Whakarewarewa, Waimangu, Waiotapu and Hells Gate.The village of Whakarewarewa is one of Rotoruas most active thermal areas. That is where you'll find the lively Pohutu geyser, which erupts about 20 times a day and can spout up to 100 feet. Other attractions at 'Whaka' include hot mud pools, hot springs, and a Maori pa. The Inferno Crater is a highlight of the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Powder blue steaming water and sheer crater walls makes for a stunning sight. Close to Waimangu, you'll find the Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, which is dubbed 'the most colourful' volcanic area. It features the famous champagne pool, the bridal veil falls, and large steaming craters.