There is no doubt that Rotorua is one of the adventure playgrounds of New Zealand and the world. With countless activities to do and a backdrop of forest, mountain, and geothermal activity, you can horse ride, walk or mountain bike to your heart’s content.
There are 18 lakes and many rivers to enjoy some pretty amazing water sports. To cap it off, Rotorua is the location of one of the best bungee jumps in New Zealand.
If you’re looking for an activity-packed holiday, or are already booked and planning your trip in Rotorua, then check out these incredible experiences for those that love the outdoors.
Canopy Tours in Rotorua
If you’re still wondering what to do in Rotorua, we guarantee, you will simply love the adrenaline rush of flying high above the canopy of an ancient New Zealand rainforest. This is rated as the top activity to do in Rotorua by many, and the package, which is a three-hour zipline eco-adventure has won massive plaudits in the travel and tourism industry, and great reviews on Trip Advisor.
You’ll begin in the Canopy Tour Rotorua base camp and experienced guides will harness you up and take you to Mamaku forest. The isolation and pure closeness to nature will inspire you with awe as you head up into the canopy and see the birdlife, canopy top, and some pretty incredible views. Definitely, one not to be missed.
Skyline Rotorua
The skyline Rotorua complex is a must-see, and possibly one of the best attractions when you first arrive in Rotorua. It’s family-friendly but has plenty of adventure for adrenaline junkies.
With a gondola ride and lots of other adventures to be had at the top, you’ll love the views and the experiences. It’s also great to get an overview of the region you are visiting, including Rotorua Lake and the rainforests.
Kayaking
With so many lakes and rivers, kayaking is a fantastic way to enjoy the water backdrop. You can either hire your own gear and go about it yourself, or get a guide and enjoy the experience of someone local telling you about the nature, culture, and history of the region. You can also paddleboard, JetSki, powerglide or anything else you can imagine on the water.
Hiking around Rotorua
There are so many places to hike, and so many geological, geothermal wonders to see, that you will definitely spend time hiking, enjoying sunsets, forests, lakeside strolls, and mounting climbs.
All the trails are marked clearly with their difficulty level, so you can find something appropriate for your group. There’s loads of literature available on Rotorua i-SITE, so get your resources, maps, and guides and get hiking. If you are a keen mountain biker, then you will be spoilt for trails and tracks to enjoy a cycle amidst the beauty of Rotorua.
You Must Experience Maori Culture
Manaakitanga spirit is alive in this wonderful region of New Zealand. With bubbling mud pools, hot springs and fantastic volcanic rock formations, the setting is wonderful. To truly get a feel for the place, though, you need to experience Maori culture in the purest form possible.
You’ll see singing, dancing and, of course, the war dance Haka at places such as Tamaki village, Mitai village and Te Puia. You’ll also get to sample the Maori food and enjoy time with Maori artisans as they carve wood and stone, and weave.
A must visit is Whakarewarewa, which is known as a Living Maori Village. Historically, the Maori used the geothermal streams to cook, wash, and heal. As you are there, you will be able to imagine the Maori warriors preparing for battle.
Rotorua is a renowned outdoor destination in New Zealand. There is such a wonderful setting in terms of both the geological history of the area, the present geothermal activity, and the wonderful, rich Maori culture. So, you are sure to be packed full of warmth and awe as you enjoy the relaxing and more adrenaline-filled activities that Rotorua has to offer.
