Rotorua is situated in the Rotorua basin on the southern shores of Lake Rotorua. The town itself is on comparatively flat land which rises gently to the south and west to surrounding hills. Rotorua has more than a dozen lakes, rivers and canals, which allow for many fun-filled activities. The most prevalent pursuits, as far as water-related sports are concerned, are jet-skiing, sailing and kayaking. Rotorua has more than 50 restaurants which offer a wide range of casual and fine dining options.
Rotorua is a major destination for both domestic and international tourists, with the tourism industry being by far the largest industry in the district. Rotorua's relatively high altitude (290 metres above sea level) keeps the air cool. The average daytime temperature range is 9 -15 degrees. Rotorua is the only single-event caldera in the Taupo volcanic zone and was formed about 220,000 years ago. The city is one of the most common places to try the traditional maori feast, the Hangi.
The city is known for its geothermal activity, with number of geysers, notably the Pohutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa, and hot mud pools located in the city. The moment you enter the city, you will see drifts of steam emitting from cracks, crevices and culverts in parks, pathways, play grounds, gardens and even residential areas, accompanied by the pervasive smell of sulphur.
Places of Attraction
1. Rainbow Springs Park
A nice park with trout fish as its centerpiece, beautiful clear running water and a top bushland. Lovely walking tracks and you can feed the fish. Also has a farm show attached.
2. Skyline Skyrides
The main reason to take this ride on a gondola is not just to get to the top for the view, the main reason is to ride the luge. Massive fun, as long as you don't fall off. They have a small chairlift operating so that you can ride the luge for as long as your budget can afford.
3. Agrodome
Everything you wanted to know about sheep. Surprising a show about sheep and farming in NZ is interesting and entertaining.
4. Rotorua Museum of Art
One of the first buildings built in NZ solely with tourists in mind. Originally built as a bath house and hot water treatment center it has now been converted. Good museum but the highlight is the movie on local history, sit down and be sure to be holding on - a total multimedia experience. Definite must do. The building itself is one of the finest examples of Edwardian design and is an art piece in itself. The surrounding gardens are always nicely maintained.
Nature Wonders
There are numerous things to do, totally free for nature lovers.
1. Huka Falls
Just North from Lake Taupo on the M1 is Huka Falls and the world famous Huka Falls Lodge (for the novu-rich of the world). Huka Falls itself is free for all. Near the beginning of the mighty Waikato river (NZ longest river) it's not the height of the falls but the sheer volume of water that is forced through which is impressive, few people have gone over the falls and survived. Boat trips are now run up to the base of the falls for those wanting a different perspective.
2. Whakarewarewa Forrest Park
On the road to the blue and green lakes. Contains beautiful stands of redwood trees, walking and horse riding tracks. The redwood trees are relatively young for trees, but they are already huge in size.
Government Gardens
Outside the Rotorua museum is well kept flower beds, rose gardens, bowling greens and more.
1. Kuirau Park
Opposite the main hospital on Kuirau road is Kuirau Park with numerous boiling pools and geothermal activities. Contains some foot pools to ease your sore feet and a children's park with miniature railway. It is a reminder the whole area is geothermally active and has the potential to be dangerous.
2. Blue and Green Lakes
Past Whakarewarewa Forrest Park is the blue lake, great for swimming or boating activities, clear water with a pumice bottom, those further out there is a problem with weeds. Keep going on the road to get a view of Mt. Tarawera. The green lake is banned and tapu (Maori for cursed, sacred, special) and no is supposed to enter it.
3. Mt. Tarawera
For the true adventure fanatics. Take the back road and climb Mount Tarawera. Enter the crater and run down to the bottom at full speed. The massive crater was caused by the 10 June 1886 eruption which destroyed the pink and white terraces and buried many villages.
4. Lakes
The number of lakes is simply too many to mention. Great for trout fishing, boating or picnics. Some lakes even have black volcanic glass and/or pumice stone lying on their shores.
Rotorua's Maori culture is unique to Aotearoa which means land of the long white cloud in the Maoris' native language. You can participate in the traditions of the country's indigenous people and visit a Marae (meeting place), shop for arts and crafts, watch concerts, share some Maori cooking at a hangi and learn the origins of the famous war dance called the Haka. Rotorua is also the place to learn about native Maori culture (here's a helpful link ).
Rotorua host several other adventure activities such as Zorbing, indoor rock-climbing and whitewater rafting or sledging. When deciding if spending $20+ per person for entry to "Volcanic Caldera Areas" remember that there are many free parks that have very similar sights and smells, often with less walking and no charge. Rotorua is also home to botanical gardens and interesting historic architecture. Known as a spa town and major tourist resort since the 1800s, many of its buildings hint at this history.
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