Rotorua, New Zealand: Where nature and community create magic

Rotorua, New Zealand: Where nature and community create magic

If you want to experience something extraordinary in New Zealand, Rotorua should be firmly placed on your radar. New Zealand's geothermal playground and cultural heart, it has a unique mix of otherworldly sights and a deep-rooted community. A place like nowhere on Earth. A place that changes you.

Imagine dipping into Hell's Gate's steaming waters or catching Lady Knox Geyser's daily spectacle. But that's just the tip of the fiery iceberg. Dive into our guide to the best geothermal experiences, and you'll see why Rotorua is literally a hotbed of earthy wonders. Or get your adrenaline pumping with our roundup of 15 outdoor adventures; from whitewater rafting to a glowworm-spotting kayak trip via a treetop light show, each one is spectacularly fun.

At Te Puia, a local expert talks about the geothermal marvels, Māori traditions, and conservation programs that make it not just a must-see but a must-experience. And if you've got 72 hours to spare, a three-day itinerary is curated and ready for you, making sure no stone, mud pool, forest, or performance is left unexplored.

Ready to trade the mundane for the magical in Rotorua? Here's how.

Experience the best of Rotorua