Best Things to do in Rotorua & Bay of Plenty New Zealand

Top Activities in Rotorua Bay of Plenty

Rotorua’s got it all – waterfalls, geothermal areas, hot springs, culture, unique forests, and some pretty delicious cuisine. We’ve put together a small list of essential ‘must do activities’.

Make sure you don’t leave Rotorua until you have:

Been down the world’s highest rafted waterfall

Checked out the incredible geothermal areas

Soaked in a natural hot pool

Eaten some delicious cuisine

Visited a secret caves home to a galaxy of glow-worms

Got out and about in the local forests

The world's highest commercially rafted waterfall

Join the Kaituna Cascades crew for an unbeatable grade 5 white-water experience on one of New Zealand’s most exciting and beautiful rivers! Experience the thrills and spills of the Mighty Kaituna River as we take on the world famous 7 metre Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall. Together with your expert guide, your team will enjoy a 50 minute action packed ride down 14 epic rapids in a tight and twisting warm water jungle canyon. This is a white water enthusiasts dream and is a must do for adrenaline junkies and 1st time rafters alike.

Geothermal wonderlands

There are many volcanic landscapes, and geothermal wonders in Rotorua. From the champagne pools at Wai Tapu to the mud baths at Hells Gate, Rotorua will have you in awe of its incredible variety. If you’re into history and geology we highly recommend Waimangu Valley. The classic free-bees in the area to check out are Kuirau Park & Sulphur Point.

Visit a secret caves home to a galaxy of glow-worms

Enjoy the Rotorua Lakes with, Paddle Board Rotorua, as the sun sets at twilight hour on an amazing stand-up paddle board scenic tour. Then get adventurous as night falls as you paddle your way to a secret glow-worm cave. Have an amazing time stand-up paddle boarding on the lake ensues as you soak in the natural surroundings as the sun goes down before venturing into the unknown to be amazed by secret hidden caves that are home to a galaxy formation of glow-worms.

Cuisine

With over 100 restaurants to choose from you are literally spoilt for choice! If you’re lucky enough to be around on a Thursday night be sure to check out the Rotorua Night Markets, and sample the many dishes from local restaurants, and get a taste of what Rotorua has to offer.

If you’re hanging out for great coffee, and a seriously good lunch head on round to Ciabatta Bakery.

If your after some amazing food, and hosts full of character, The Factory Smokehouse and Grill have you covered. This hidden gem is well worth the visit!

Natural Hot Springs

This is a variety in the area, the best free ones are Kerosene Creek and Hot & Cold. Our personal favourite in the area is Waikete Valley. With naturally boiling hot water straight out of Te Manaroa natural hot spring, Waikete Valley is a 100% pure natural geothermal water hot pool park. With multiple pools, and private spa options, there is a hot pool to suit all travelers.

Stunning forests

With so many differing walks in our beautiful forests check out our page on The Best Day Hikes in Rotorua for a full range of what Rotorua has to offer! Feeling more adventurous?

Rotorua is surrounded by 140km of purpose built single mountain biking tracks right on the doorstep of our beautiful lakes and spectacular geothermal areas. Check out Planet Bike for the best deals for guided tours, mountain bike hire, trail information, and shuttles.