Top Tours & Activities in Rotorua

Explore The Lakes Tour – 9am to 1pm By far the best lakes tour in Rotorua, small group, locations and value. With 18 lakes in the Rotorua area our Explore The Lakes Tour provides a driver-guided exploration of some of the highlights of New Zealand’s Lake District: Hamurana springs, the largest fresh water spring in the North island. Okere falls and Tutea falls with Native forest walk. lake Rotoiti, the Blue and Green lakes and lake Tarawera. Explore our favourite scenic spots and natural springs on foot. Take photographs at your leisure and learn about Rotorua’s colourful culture and history from our knowledgeable and friendly guide. • Highlights • Small group, relaxed atmosphere. •  Informative, outgoing driver-guide. • Breath-taking scenery. • No queues . • Half day tour.

Challenge yourself with New Zealand's largest and most diverse range of mazes, mind-bending puzzles, and game attractions! Navigate Rotorua's famous 1.7km 3D Maze, explore our NEW glow in the dark neon cave experience, plus try New Zealand's tallest wall maze. Keep the family entertained for hours with so much more to do - colour maze, puzzle path, arrow maze, Tui's Tangle maze, children's playground, tilt maze, giant games and rope maze. Wonderworld has been an icon in Rotorua’s family entertainment and tourism industry, bringing fun and happiness for over 40 years. We're conveniently located 12 minutes from Rotorua & 3 minutes from the Airport making it a perfect thing to do in Rotorua!

Take a guided canyon kayak tour in the daytime, on the Waikato River. Learn the history of the submerged village and enjoy the serenity of being on the water. Paddle slowly up the Pokaiwhenua Stream and through the canyon carved out by water over many hundreds of years.

Combine the thrill of landing on Mount Tarawera with a flight that includes spectacular aerial views of our stunning crater lakes, the renowned Tarawera Falls and the vibrant Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu geothermal reserves. Leaving Wai-O-Tapu we descend to follow the Waikato River to the hidden valley of Orakei Korako. Once landed, you will ferry across the river and begin your land-based tour. Experience hot springs, gushing geysers and the natural beauty of this geothermal wonderland. Your return flight takes in views of farmland and the Paeroa mountain range before flying over Rotorua City and returning to our lakefront pier.

Travel at high speed across scenic Lake Rotorua and through the Ohau Channel, then onto Lake Rotoiti where we will take you to the beautiful and peaceful Manupirua Hot Springs for a 1 hour relaxing soak. This hidden gem is only accessible by boat.

Fly over New Zealand’s only permanently active offshore volcano, White Island and enjoy amazing aerial views of the island's crater lake and ever-changing volcanic activity. Continue across the Pacific Ocean and further inland to the site of the largest eruption in our living memory, Mount Tarawera.

As passionate conservationists we'll take you out of our way to discover birds you have never seen. A full day birding adventure checking out a few sites to maximize your chances to see a range of endemic New Zealand birds. We explore arguably New Zealand's finest forest, stunning estuaries, amazing wetlands and seek out rare birds in their natural habitat.

Raceline Karting is NZ’s premier karting adventure it is New Zealand's newest and longest state of the art outdoor KartSport circuit.Situated at the Rotorua International KartSport Raceway the track is 1.2km long, 8 metres wide, and includes a 150 metre straight, you will also take on 11 corners and 6 hairpins. We are operating Sodi 390cc 4 stroke karts imported from France, they can reach speeds close to 100km/hour.

We are proud to be the first in New Zealand to pioneer the integration of the latest audio-visual technologies with the world of art 7 Immersive Exhibition Rooms Each room at 3 Mirage is designed to evoke emotion, spark imagination, and transport you to another world. Tree of Life – The Source of Creation Vast Starry Sky – A Cosmic Journey Exotic Landscape – Worlds Unknown Ocean of Flowers and Waterfalls – Flow of Nature Forest Exploration – Secrets of the Wild Journey of Discovery – Path to Self Dreamlike Clouds – Floating Between Worlds Be among the first to experience the future of art and technology! 360-Degree Immersion – Surround yourself in a panoramic world of color, light, and sound. 4D Experience – Engage all your senses with dynamic visuals, spatial audio, and tactile elements. Interactive Technology – Step into the art and become part of the story. Multi-Sensory Impact – Experience art through sight, sound, and movement like never before.

Join us to view Rotorua beyond the crater rim. Enjoy spectacular views of our hidden lakes district, distant volcanoes and local geothermal activity. In this captivating overview of this stunning area and continue your experience on your floatplane scenic flight towards lake Rotoiti. Landing on the lake we’ll taxi to the pier where you disembark, your Eden awaiting. Only accessible by water, the hot pools are in a secluded bay on the shores of Lake Rotoiti. Seemingly disconnected from the world, this is where you’ll spend 90 minutes, with your only concerns being which pool to experience next. Take your time soaking, cool off in the lake, rest a bit on a lounger and repeat before returning to the Rotorua City Lakefront

An unforgettable adventure from start to finish! This guided Māori cultural walking tour through a stunning Jurassic podocarp rainforest was truly one-of-a-kind. The journey began with a comfortable and fun bus ride from Rotorua, where we met our friendly Māori guides. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with a traditional Mihi Whakatau and Karakia, which set a deeply meaningful tone for the day. The rainforest itself is breathtaking—towering 1,000-year-old Totara trees, lush native plants, and the chance to spot rare birds in their natural habitat. The guides shared fascinating stories about the forest’s history, Māori traditions, and the medicinal plants known as Rakau Rongoa. We even got to experience 'Forest Bathing,' a peaceful moment of connection with nature, accompanied by beautiful Māori chants and music. The packed picnic lunch, infused with traditional flavors, was delicious, and hot Kawakawa tea was the perfect ending. A must-do for anyone visiting Rotorua!

7 Immersive Exhibition Rooms Each room at 3 Mirage is designed to evoke emotion, spark imagination, and transport you to another world. Tree of Life – The Source of Creation Vast Starry Sky – A Cosmic Journey Exotic Landscape – Worlds Unknown Ocean of Flowers and Waterfalls – Flow of Nature Forest Exploration – Secrets of the Wild Journey of Discovery – Path to Self Dreamlike Clouds – Floating Between Worlds Be among the first to experience the future of art and technology! What Makes 3 Mirage Revolutionary? 360-Degree Immersion 4D Experience 中文this attraction is a must-visit for anyone looking to make the most of their time in New Zealand. This is a family ticket, which allows entry for 1 Adult + up to 3 Children.

Raceline Karting is NZ’s premier karting adventure it is New Zealand's newest and longest state of the art outdoor KartSport circuit.Situated at the Rotorua International KartSport Raceway the track is 1.2km long, 8 metres wide, and includes a 150 metre straight, you will also take on 11 corners and 6 hairpins. We are operating Sodi 390cc 4 stroke karts imported from France, they can reach speeds close to 100km/hour. Next up is our action-packed Monster 4X4 Thrill Ride, your professional driver will tackle local terrain in the 4X4 monster jeep with custom built chassis and suspension. The V6 Holden engine will propel you through our private native bush using all of its front & rear steering abilities. Both awesome all-weather activities

Experience the thrill of claybird shooting with our qualified instructors. There are a range of guns available including: 12 gauge under and overs. 410 Shotguns are available if a smaller gun is preferred. All safety gear is provided. Our facility is set in the stunning native bush overlooking beautiful Lake Rotorua. Travel up Mount Ngongotaha to the shooting facility in our 4WD buggy which seats up to 5 people - an experience not to be missed!

Experience “Volcanic Extremes” flying over the active crater of “Whakaari” White Island before landing on the now dormant but extremely spectacular summit of Mount Tarawera. Both of these volcanoes are of significance, Whakaari more recently for the devastating 2019 eruption and Mount Tarawera for the much larger 1886 eruption considered to be the largest in New Zealand’s living memory. Different in the extreme, Whakaari is an active marine volcano and changes its activity on a daily basis while far inland Mount Tarawera stands impressively above its central North Island landscape. The mountains now dormant but no less impressive craters and domes are evidence of the massive eruption that shaped this area. Views from the Mountains summit are breathtaking, not only for the volcanoes deep craters but also for commanding vistas of the surrounding region.

Rugged and remote, the trail is full of unknowns with plenty of thrills along the way. With instruction from a professional guide, you can tackle terrain made for 4WD adventures. Tight, twisting bends, deep muddy holes, a seven metre-high luge, steep climbs and thrilling descents – this is uncharted territory with challenges that come thick and fast.This is an unforgettable self-drive 4WD adventure using high-performance 4WD Suzuki Jimny's with automatic transmission and power steering. No previous 4WD experience necessary, drivers require a valid driver’s license. Next up, Karting on New Zealand's newest and longest state of the art outdoor KartSport circuit.Situated at the Rotorua International KartSport Raceway the track is 1.2km long, 8 metres wide, and includes a 150 metre straight, you will also take on 11 corners and 6 hairpins. We are operating Sodi 390cc 4 stroke karts imported from France, they can reach speeds close to 100km/hour.

Experience the beauty of nature on this eco-thermal afternoon tour, designed for those with limited time. This 4-hour adventure captures the essence of the region's unique geothermal features without the morning rush. Enjoy convenient pickups from the CBD area at 1 PM, allowing you to immerse yourself in stunning landscapes and natural wonders. Conclude your tour by 5 PM, making it a perfect fit for busy travelers. - 4-hour eco-thermal tour with convenient afternoon timing - Pickups available in the CBD area starting at 1 PM - A more affordable alternative to our morning tour - Discover geothermal features without the Lady Knox Geyser visit

Enjoy a morning journey in the Wai-o-Tapu Scenic Reserve. Starting with the fascinating Mud Pool and Lady Knox Geyser. Take your time to wonder through New Zealand's most colourful and diverse geothermal park where you are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape. The key to what you see lie below the surface. We are local Maori whanau (family) owned business, who love sharing history and stories of our homeland.

We put less seats in our vehicles than factory standard and only 3 seats in the back row. Pay a little more to be comfortable. This tour involves a lot of driving and is more enjoyable if you are comfortable and not crushed up against other people on the vehicle. We keep the groups small with no more than 12 people on our vehicle, meaning our drivers can and will give you, personal service. Check out our reviews to see what customers say about us, our vehicles and our team of experienced and enthusiastic drivers. We have No minimum numbers for this tour. All meals provided on the tour are prepared in a professional kitchen and are normally served in a restaurant or café. Very occasionally Meals may be served picnic style

Experience two iconic NZ visitor attractions in one amazing day starting in Rotorua and ending in Auckland. See the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, the world-famous Waitomo Glowworms Caves and travel through the beautiful Waikato region.

Travel along scenic railway lines in a self-drive rail car, offering a unique perspective of Rotorua’s breathtaking landscapes, 1000 year old virgin native forests, rolling farmland and views over Lake Rotorua. With space for up to four passengers, these petrol-electric rail cars provide comfortable seating and clear views through waterproof sides, allowing you to savor the sights as you cruise at a leisurely 20km/h. Listen to the audio tour and delve into the rich history of New Zealand’s railways while enjoying stunning views of Lake Rotorua and Mount Tarawera. This innovative experience is perfect for families and adventurers alike, making it a must-do when in Rotorua.

Feel revitalised with a private sauna experience in a stone-heated sauna with views over magically lit ponds and small waterfalls. Designed for up to four people in your group, these traditional saunas are made with fragrant Japanese hinoki wood and use volcanic rocks from Finland. Your nearby cedar cold plunge tubs allow you to embrace the benefits of contrast therapy, creating an invigorating experience. Set beside the majestic Whakarewarewa Forest, this experience is perfect for experienced and new sauna-users alike.

What finer way to see Glowworms than in a Big Kanu. Paddle together through the calm waters of Lake Rotoiti along the shore line.

Glow-worms are the highlight of any night-time stroll in New Zealand, and when found in abundance they can be as breathtaking as our clearest night sky. Join our experienced guides on a trip into the native bush to witness this phenomenon for yourself. Learn about the life-cycle of this fascinating insect, experience New Zealand’s wildlife by night and top off this stellar evening by relaxing under the stars. An unique experience for all your senses. Highlights • Glow-worm, waterfalls, wildlife and star gazing. • New Zealand Native Forest - all by the cover of darkness. • Small group, relaxed atmosphere.

The Ultimate is a step up from our Original Tour, offering a 3 hour adventure packed with thrills, ziplines, forest walks, and stunning views. Perfect for families, couples, and groups of all ages to connect with nature and share an unforgettable experience. Highlights: 6 ziplines, including a 400m tandem racing at up to 80 km/h Giant suspended swing bridges above forest valleys NZ’s only volcanic cliff-walk Spiral staircase around a 1,000-year-old Tawa tree Floating staircase high in the canopy Custom-built tree-top platforms Spot rare native birds Set in one of NZ’s last remaining ancient forests Free photos, transport, and wet-weather gear included Every booking supports forest restoration and predator control Guided by energetic, knowledgeable, and passionate “superheroes” Run by a team who care deeply about guests, each other, and the forest

Redwoods Altitude is designed to showcase even more of the spectacular Redwoods Forest. From 25 metres up, you will be guided on an exhilarating journey along 25 Indiana Jones style jungle bridges! Using a continuous safety system, our professional guides will lead you around the 650 metre loop, ensuring your safety and comfort. Join us as we share local knowledge and stories about the Redwood Forest history, native flora and fauna and Māori legends. Please allow 2-hours for the entire Altitude experience. Plus, entry to our new Redwoods Altitude eco-cave.

Are you ready to soar over waterfalls, zoom through pristine native forests, and be enlightened through a hands-on cultural and ecological experience in Okere Falls, Rotorua? If so, then Rotorua Ziplines has you covered. Suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities, a network of ziplines, swing bridges, and boardwalks will have you in awe for 2.5 hours as you fly, walk and gaze at the stunning taiao (Environment) that is Ōkere. Born through an intimate connection with the Ōkere Awa (Kaituna River), this joint venture between Ngāti Hinerangi and Rotorua Rafting’s Ōkere Falls born and bred, Sam Sutton, has been created to showcase its mauri (spirit) and importance with Aotearoa’s soon to be premier zipline experience. Ensuring that our taiao is enhanced through the very operation will have every guest leaving a tree in their name as Rotorua Ziplines reforestation project plant its way towards 60,000 native trees by the end of 2025 to see Ōkere Falls thrive for generations to come.

Spend one adrenaline-crammed hour of white water rafting down the Kaituna River on this tour from Rotorua. Start at a spot where wild waters meet subtropical rainforests and canyons engraved in the earth. Raft over beautiful cascading waterfalls, including the stunning Tutea Falls, and even take the opportunity to do some swimming through some of the rapids. This tour is good for novice and expert rafters. Free Sauna included.

Rotorua Canopy Tours is unlike any other zipline experience and it’s more than just epic ziplines! At the heart of it all, it’s about people. We create unforgettable, world-class adventures that connect you to nature, to others, and to something bigger. Perfect for families, couples, and groups of all ages to share together. Voted New Zealand’s Best Experience 2025 & 2024 by TripAdvisor travelers Multi-award-winning and among the world’s top nature experiences Set in a rare 1,000yr old native forest, home to ancient trees and rare wildlife Includes 6 thrilling ziplines (up to 60km/h) and suspended swing bridges over the canopy Stay up in tree-top platforms for most of the experience Free digital photos, return transport, and wet weather gear included Close encounters with rare native birds Every booking supports an active forest restoration project We are a passionate, caring team that cares about our culture and wellbeing

The ultimate Redwoods experience - Altitude + Nightlights Fast Pass + daytime Treewalk + Glowworms (Treewalk and Glowworm entries can be used within 3 days of your Altitude tour).

Join us for a guided Kayak trip to the spectacular Manupirua Springs Hot Pools on Lake Rotoiti. This amazing spot is situated right on the lake edge and only accessible by boat.

The ultimate 4WD adventure that puts you in control. Buckle up and take on an off-road adventure deep into native New Zealand forest. Back in the early 1900's the area Off Road NZ is set on, was used by logging pioneers who logged our native timbers until closing up in the 1970's. The tracks that the pioneers used back then are the same tracks that you will be diving on today. This is an unforgettable self-drive 4WD adventure using high-performance 4WD Suzuki Jimny's with automatic transmission and power steering. From 45 minutes to 1 hour this experience is suitable for the whole family, with children under 5 going free! No previous 4WD experience necessary, drivers require a valid driver's license.

Kaituna River Whitewater Rafting in Rotorua stands out for its blend of big-water fun and deep connection to place. Drop the world-famous Tutea Falls (7 m/22 ft) and surf a lively gorge while local & Māori guides share whakapapa (genealogy and stories of place), tikanga (customs and protocols) and the river’s cultural significance. We keep groups small as possible, supply premium cold-weather gear, and include central hotel pick-up. Pro photos available, book here for adrenaline, scenery and authentic stories you won’t find elsewhere.

Enjoy a 4 hour, small group tour (8people max). Departs every day from 1:15 pm return 5:15pm. Discover some of Rotorua's "off the beaten track" mud pools and best thermal areas. Dip your toes or fully immerse yourself in our favourite hot springs. Rainbow Mountain, Crater Lakes - uniquely coloured vegetation and lakes. Waiotapu mud Pool - boiling mud with mini-eruptions guaranteed. Hot lakes a natural thermal experience like no other. Te Manaroa Spring - NZ's largest source of 100% boiling spring water. Finish the day soaking in Waikite Valley Thermal Pools Spring n Spa.

Probably the best mountain bike park this side of the equator. If you have biked in the Redwoods bike park before - imagine the possibilities with a full suspension electric bike that effortlessly pulls you up those big hills, then bombs right down them. This park is for riders of all levels with a variety of trails to suit. This is run as a relaxed semi-guided experience, where there are a couple of guides to show you some trails and then leave you to enjoy the park as you please. There are always guides in a central location to assist where needed and show you some local favourites throughout the day.

In the heart of Rotorua's city centre, just a short walk from the must-see Government Gardens, our artists are absorbed in their craft, passionately hand-carving New Zealand pounamu with love and dedication. They invite you to come and discover the stories behind their carvings and step inside our studio for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes experience. You’ll get up close to the action and spend unforgettable one-on-one time with our artists, learning about the jade carving process and watching live carving demonstrations. As you embark on a journey into the rich history of pounamu, you’ll discover fascinating insights into the cultural significance of the stone and its traditional uses and values. To top it all off, you will choose your very own piece of pounamu and learn how to string it into a necklace to take home and treasure forever. Available at 10.00 am, daily. Infant ages are 0-2 years.

Regardless of skill level, you are bound to have the experience of a lifetime on this white-water sledging adventure from Rotorua. White-water sledging — also called riverboarding or hydrospeeding — lets you take charge of your own vessel as you twist and turn down the rapids while propelled by the flippers on your feet. Trained guides are available on the Okere River to encourage, motivate, and help you when necessary.

This is a once in a life-time experience and different from any other Glowworm Tour you'll go on! Our adventure begins late afternoon / early evening at Riverside Adventures' base in South Waikato. Paddle along the southern edge of Lake Karapiro, over the old submerged Horahora Dam that produced electricity for the early Waihi goldfields. Learn the history of the Horahora village and enjoy the twilight & silence of being on the water as the day draws to an end. As night arrives over the lake , paddle slowly up the Pokaiwhenua Stream and through the canyon carved out by water over many hundreds of years. Native ferns & trees drape over you, bird life is all around. When darkness falls we float silently back downstream, being guided by the glow worms on either side sparkling like Christmas lights.

The tour departs daily between 8:00-8:30 am. from your accommodation and drives you through forestry and farmland to New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool. Your guide shows you a series of colorful hot springs and volcanic features at Wai-O-Tapu. Then see the Lady Knox geyser eruption at 10:15 am. Next a short drive to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley where your guide explains the Mt. Tarawera eruption which blew open this spectacular, bush-covered, geothermal park. Spend the afternoon experiencing Rotorua’s Maori culture and geothermal activity and see how they are intricately entwined. First, a guided tour through Te Puia, Rotorua’s premier cultural attraction. This includes a visit to the wood carving school, art and craft gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving display, kiwi house and finally the Pohutu geyser. Next, we visit the Lakefront area to see the Maori War Canoe and learn more about Maori history and customs. Please be advised, we do NOT pick up from any ports in New Zealand.

Rugged and remote, the trail is full of unknowns with plenty of thrills along the way. With instruction from a professional guide, you can tackle terrain made for 4WD adventures. Tight, twisting bends, deep muddy holes, a seven metre-high luge, steep climbs and thrilling descents – this is uncharted territory with challenges that come thick and fast. Don’t hold back, get hands on and let the good times roll! Next up is our action-packed Monster 4X4 Thrill Ride, your professional driver will tackle local terrain in the 4X4 monster jeep with custom built chassis and suspension. The V6 Holden engine will propel you through our private native bush using all of its front & rear steering abilities.

Arriving in Rotorua later in the day? No problem! Discover the region's stunning lakes and experience the incredible Te Puia Maori cultural attraction on this half-day, small-group afternoon tour. We'll pick you up from your Rotorua accommodation between 1:00 PM and 1:15 PM. At Te Puia, you'll enjoy a guided tour through its highlights, including the renowned woodcarving school, the art and craft gallery, Rotowhio Marae, a traditional weaving display, and the Kiwi House. Witness the magnificent Pōhutu Geyser erupting in person! Spend your afternoon soaking in Rotorua's scenic beauty with a relaxing 60-minute drive around its most picturesque spots. You'll return to your city accommodation around 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM.

By Helicopter , combine the thrill of landing on Mount Tarawera (for an approximate 20 minute guided walk with your pilot) with a flight that includes spectacular aerial views of our stunning crater lakes, the renowned Tarawera Falls and the vibrant Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu geothermal reserves. This tour highlights these amazing features unique to this region because of their location on our Faultline relative to the Pacific Rim of Fire.

Follow the eruption trail of Mt. Tarawera on a helicopter tour that includes a landing on the volcano. Best viewed from the air, the rugged landscape of this geothermal wonder is set amid a series of crater lakes. You'll take off from Rotorua and soar above the Northern Lakes district, listening to commentary about the region’s history and geology from the pilot-guide. Then take a 20-minute walking tour for up-close photo ops of the volcanic scenery.

Experience the majesty of Mt. Tarawera, infamous for its volcanic eruption in 1886. This guided trek encompasses the stunning landscape and unique history of the area. You'll follow a winding trail to the crater's edge for a panoramic view of the geothermal area. Travel by 4WD vehicle from central Rotorua hotels.

Enjoy a spectacular tour with our experienced guides and learn about the history of our Spirit Mountain, Mount Ngongotaha.  Our guides are passionate about the environment, Rotorua and Maori history, culture & legends associated with the mountain.  Your tour takes you over 100 year old forestry trails through the spectacular New Zealand native bush.  The tour takes approximately 1 hour with the highlight being able to reach the highest lookout in Rotorua with spectacular views over Lake Rotorua.

Fly high over breathtaking volcanic landscapes on an unforgettable 30-minute seaplane flight from Rotorua. See New Zealand's world-famous volcanic scenery as you fly over spectacular Mt. Tarawera, the Blue and Green Lakes, and the gurgling geysers of Whakarewareewa Thermal Reserve. Flying at a time to suit you, this scenic air tour will fit into even the busiest of itineraries.

Strapped into your seat with helmet and protective gear on, brace yourself for the power and brute force of an all-terrain monster 4X4 truck. No roof, no doors – there’s nothing between you and great outdoors. Your professional driver will tackle local terrain in the 4X4 monster jeep with custom built chassis and suspension. The V6 Holden engine will propel you through our private native bush using all of its front & rear steering abilities

Join a small-group morning tour from Rotorua to explore two top geothermal parks: Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Get picked up around 8-8:30 AM. See New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool, then enjoy a 1-hour guided walk through Wai-O-Tapu's colorful hot springs. Witness the Lady Knox Geyser erupt at 10:15 AM. Afterward, your guide will explain the 1886 Mt Tarawera eruption in Waimangu Volcanic Valley during another 1-hour guided walk through its active hot springs. Have lunch at Waimangu Cafe around 12 PM (30min) before being dropped off by 1pm. Please note: Lunch is not include in price