Best 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 the ultimate maze experience with so much 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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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 will host you and share this amazing park with you. Your expert guide will point out the unique geology, flora and fauna and cultural history that makes Tongariro special. The full day option involves; - Pick up/meet in Rotorua 8.00am / Taupo 9.00am (One-hour travel time from Taupo or 1 hour 45 minutes from Rotorua) - Start the day with the Taranaki Falls walk (2 hours), take in stunning views of Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe, continue on to the Tama Lakes if fitness allows (4 hours) or add Lake Rotopounamu if group is less fit). Lunch will be on route as day allows - Return to Taupo / 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.

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.

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.

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!

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 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

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.

Thrills, geothermal wonder, and Māori culture — experience the essence of Aotearoa in one extraordinary day.

Explore the picturesque countryside of Rotorua on a guided one-hour horse trek, where rolling hills meet breathtaking views of Lake Rotorua. This experience is ideal for riders of all levels, as each horse is carefully matched to your skill. Your local guide will share insights about the stunning landscape and wildlife as you ride at a relaxed pace through serene trails. Enjoy the tranquility of the foothills of Mt Ngongotaha while creating unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.

This one-way small group tour from Rotorua to Auckland is a journey through New Zealand's stunning landscapes and geothermal wonders. Witness the Lady Knox Geyser at Wai-O-Tapu, explore the magnificent Lake Taupo, and marvel at the beauty of Huka Falls. The tour concludes at the enchanting Hamilton Gardens, showcasing a variety of themed gardens. With knowledgeable guides sharing their insights, this tour offers a seamless travel experience that includes secret stops and complimentary refreshments. Perfect for travelers looking to explore key attractions in a relaxed, small group setting. - One-way small group tour from Rotorua to Auckland, approx. 11 hours - Visit Wai-O-Tapu, Lake Taupo, Huka Falls, and Hamilton Gardens - Enjoy guided tours with insights from passionate local guides - Includes entry tickets, bottled water, snacks, and secret stops along the way

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 3:30 PM - 4 PM. Kindly note that for your visit to Te Puia, guiding services will be provided by their on-site staff. This adheres to the venue's specific operational policies

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.

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.

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

Get picked up from your Rotorua accommodation between 8AM and 8:30 AM. Commentated scenic drive to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland for 1hr guided walk. See colourful hot springs, boiling mud, volcanic landscapes and experience the daily eruption of Lady Knox Geyser playing at 10:15 AM. Visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley to learn about the 1886 Mt Tarawera eruption on a 1hr guided walk. Relax at the Waimangu Volcanic Valley Cafe for lunch at 12:00 PM. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour through Rotorua's premier cultural attraction Te Puia. Learn about Maori culture and history by visiting the woodcarving school, arts and crafts gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving display, kiwi house, and experience the Pohutu Geyser. Finish your day with a smooth drive around the local sights of Rotorua. Kindly note that for your visit to Te Puia, guiding services will be provided by their on-site staff. This adheres to the venue's specific operational policies. Tour operates from 8 am to 4 pm

Embark on a mesmerizing evening adventure kayaking across Lake Rotoiti, New Zealand's gem. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery and the symphony of birdlife as you paddle towards the mythical Glowworm cave, a spectacle of bioluminescence. After a sumptuous BBQ dinner at the secluded Manupirua Hot Pools, accessible only by water, surrender to pure relaxation as you soak in the therapeutic warmth of the natural geothermal springs. As the moon and stars twinkle above, witness the lake's magical transformation. This enchanting experience is a perfect harmony of nature's wonders, leaving you with cherished memories of tranquility and awe.