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Rotorua

NZ Rotorua Pohutu Geyser Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley
NZ Rotorua Waitapu Green Ngakoro Lake
NZ Rotorua Forest of Tree Ferns and Giant Redwoods in Whakarewarewa Forest
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Welcome to Rotorua

The insider's travel guide to Rotorua

An eggy scent hangs over sulphuric Rotorua on New Zealand’s North Island, which is home to spectacular geothermal springs, bubbling mud pools, geysers, and colourful geothermal terraces.

These natural features can be seen at various parks and open areas throughout Rotorua, but for a quieter experience, visit one outside the city. Orakei Korako, between Rotorua and Taupo, is a bit of a detour and requires a short boat ride to get across to the thermal terraces. If you’re driving a self-contained camper van, you’re allowed to park here overnight.

However, it’s not just the landscapes that attract visitors – 34% of Rotorua’s population is Maori, and cultural performances and banquets are worth seeing.

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Dispatches

Guides & field notes
Active Adventures In New Zealand
Guide

Active Adventures In New Zealand

Nicole Canning
Nicole Canning

New Zealand must be in contention for title of adventure travel capital of the world. The list of white-knuckle thrills you can seek out here knows no bounds.
New Zealand's Best Road Trips
Guide

New Zealand's Best Road Trips

Elen Turner
Elen Turner

With just four million people spread over two main islands, nature and dramatic scenery rules in New Zealand.From the high Southern Alps that run the length of the South Island to the volcanic peaks of the North Island, the watery passages of the Marlborough Sounds and Fiordland to the geothermal activity of the central North Island, the golden sands of Northland beaches to the black sands of the west coast of both islands – there’s a lot to see on a self-drive route through New Zealand.
More on Rotorua
Rotorua Experiences
Things to see and do
Rotorua Itineraries
Multi-day routes
Rotorua Trips
Organised tours and packages
Rotorua Travel Companies
Independent specialists

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