20 May Incredible Volcanic Air Add Ons!
Rotorua is a vacation destination all on it’s own. Here are 10 suggestions from our staff for what to do after you’ve gone for a flight – and keep a look out, you might just see us there too!
Ziplining through NZ bush
Rotorua Canopy Tours
Voted the World’s Best Nature Experience for good reason, Rotorua Canopy Tours never fails to impress! From the moment you step into the office you’ll be greeted with infectious enthusiasm, and it only gets better from there. The knowledgeable guides will lead you through a prehistoric NZ forest, sharing insights about the restored bush and history of NZ along the way. Then, prepare for an exhilarating adventure as you ascend into the canopy. Experience a whole new perspective while traversing ziplines (some over 600m long!), cross swing bridges, stroll along a cliff walkway, and even have the chance to hand-feed wild birds! The small group setting ensures you’ll forge a connection with your guide and truly appreciate this once in a lifetime experience, perfect for all ages (6+).
https://www.canopytours.co.nz/
Treewalk
Birds eye view of people taking in green ferns from the Treewalk
Entryway to the Treewalk featuring lights
It is astonishing to discover a Redwood Forest only 10 minutes from the centre of town. The Redwoods Treewalk provides a magical way to admire these majestic trees. Suspended high above the forest floor, you can stroll among 75-meter-tall redwoods via suspended bridges and platforms, intricately crafted to honour and highlight these 120+ year old giants of the forest. During the day; marvel at native fauna and sweeping silver ferns below, and don’t forget to look up to spot the native birds. Alternatively, visit at night for the Redwoods Nightlights experience – 34 meticulously designed lanterns float, casting their colours amongst the ferns and branches to create a surreal magiccal .
This award-winning eco-tourism walk prioritizes sustainability – economically, environmentally, and socially, offering not only a truly unforgettable activity but also a profound connection to Rotorua. If you have 45 minutes, head to the Redwoods – you won’t regret it!
Skyline Rotorua
A visit to Rotorua isn’t complete without a ride on the Skyline gondola up Mt Ngongotaha to take in the breathtaking views! Whether you’re with family, a large group, or enjoying a romantic outing, you can easily spend half a day enjoying the thrills. Race down the luge tracks, fly through the forest on the dual ziplines, experience the adrenaline rush of the Skyswing, or tackle the challenges of the legendary Mountain Bike Park. Keep everyone happy and full at the Market Kitchen Café or the Stratosfare Restaurant, both offering delicious meals paired with unbeatable views overlooking the city, lakes and Mount Tarawera.
https://rotorua.skyline.co.nz/
Skyline Gondola overlooking sunny Rotorua
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Aerial view of Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Explore the world’s youngest geothermal system when you walk through Waimangu Volcanic Valley! Marvel at spectacular volcanic craters, stunning geothermal features, rare plant life, vibrant microbiology, and a diverse array of birds as you delve into the stories of the Mt Tarawera volcanic eruption, it’s people, and the resulting dramatic landscape transformation. Almost all our scenic flights include a Waimangu fly over, and as the site of the world-famous Pink and White Terraces (buried in the 1886 eruption), it holds a special place in Rotorua’s long history as a tourism destination.
Inferno Crater at Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Waimangu offers an excellent half-day adventure – you can opt to hike or utilize their hop-on/ hop-off bus to explore the park. We highly recommend including the boat tour to see the Steaming Cliffs up close.
And, at the end of your tour, don’t miss the opportunity for a sausage roll from the café – the best we have ever eaten!
Wai-O-Tapu
Rotorua boasts an abundance of geothermal parks, and Wai-O-Tapu stands out for its vibrant geothermal attractions. Everyone should walk around the striking Champagne Pool, the vivid Artist’s Palette, the electric Devil’s Bath, sulphur deposits and countless craters and mud pools. One of the park’s main attractions is the Lady Knox Geyser which erupts daily at 10:15am, soaring to heights of 10-20 meters.
With its easy trails, this park offers an enjoyable outing for everyone, and Volcanic Air recommends that all visitors to Rotorua take the opportunity to view our geothermal parks from both the air and up close!
Birds eye view of the Champagne Pool at Wai-O-Tapu
Vivid colors of the Artists Palette at Wai-O-Tapu
Polynesian Spa
Adults enjoying a steamy lakeside pool as the sunrises
A beloved Rotorua institution, the Polynesian Spa offers an iconic geothermal bathing experience. Fed by two different springs, the 28 hot pools cater to various preferences. The Priest Spring’s slightly acidic waters help to relieve tired muscles, aches and pains while the Rachel Spring’s alkaline water is believed to bestow ageless beauty upon those lucky enough to bathe in its waters!
You’ll find yourself spoiled for choice among the outdoor pools which look out over Sulphur Bay, as well as the array of spa treatments and dining options available at the café (gelato to make you drool!). Whether you’re taking the kids to the family pools, indulging in the Deluxe Lake Spa, stargazing from a private pool, or relaxing in the Pavilion Pools with the locals, you will leave feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle your next adventure in Rotorua!
https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/
Secret Spot Hot Tubs
Friends enjoying one of Secret Spots Hot Tubs
Two local brothers wanted to capture that Rotorua magic of a hot stream tucked amongst some native bush after a great day of adventuring, and they nailed it with Secret Spot Hot Tubs. Awarded the Luxury Forest Bathing Spa Global Award in 2023, you can reserve your own semi-secluded cedar hot tub surrounded by native ferns and have a drink delivered to you with the push of a button! Following your 45-minute soak, enjoy another drink while you play some lawn games, have a bite to eat and listen to some live music. This is an amazing place to reconnect with those special people in your life – whether seeking respite from a hectic week or winding down after an awesome day of mountain biking.
Natural geothermal activity in Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley
Te Puia
No visit to Rotorua is complete without a visit to Te Puia! Built around a magnificent geothermal wonderland boasting the Southern Hemisphere’s largest natural geyser (which naturally erupts over 15 times a day), Te Puia also houses the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute and a state-of-the-art Kiwi Conservation Centre.
During the day, embark on a guided tour around Te Puia to delve into the history and lineage of this sacred land, and witness a captivating cultural performance at the meeting house. Alternatively, as night falls, indulge in a hangi buffet dinner, witness a haka performance, and conclude your evening with a steaming hot chocolate in the geothermal park.
Te Puia has been warmly welcoming manuhiri (visitors) from around the world for generations, inviting them to uncover the magic hidden within Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley.
Jet Boating around Mokoia Island
Katoa Jet
Extend your adventures at the Rotorua Lakefront by booking with Katoa Jet – our next-door neighbours! Brace yourself for an adrenaline rush as the jet boats blast you around the lake at speeds reaching up to 85 km/h. The experienced drivers perform the famous Hamilton Jet 360˚ spins (ask for the “fun seat” if you’re up for a splash!) and take you to iconic landmarks around Lake Rotorua, where you’ll learn about the rich history of the people and events which have shaped this special place into the cultural capital of New Zealand!
If you have a more time on your hands, venture through the Ohau Channel to Lake Rotoiti where they can also bring you to the Hot Pools for a relaxing soak. No matter which adventure you choose, everyone is guaranteed to leave with huge smiles on their faces!
https://www.katoalakerotorua.co.nz/
Mountain Bike Rotorua
Two mountain bikers on a trail in Whakarewarewa/ Redwood Forest
Consistently ranked among the Top 10 destinations for Mountain Biking locations around the world, Rotorua is a mountain bikers dream. Mountain Bike Rotorua serves as your gateway to the meticulously maintained trails in Whakarewarewa/ Redwood Forest and the Skyline Gravity Park – the world’s first all-season MTB park and the host of the renowned mountain bike festival, Crankworx Rotorua. The team operates a full-service workshop, offers bike hires, shuttles, clinics, coaching, and retail options, ensuring that riders of all experience levels, can get out and enjoy a ride!