Reviews: Real Stories From Past Guests
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park Reviews: Real Stories Past Guests
Planning a trip to Rotorua? Hear directly from those who have stayed with us at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park. Our 5-star Google reviews reflect the welcoming and relaxing environment we strive to create for every guest. In this post, we've compiled real stories from past visitors who have shared their experiences.
Whether it's the friendly service, clean facilities, or convenient on-site amenities, these reviews show why Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park is a top choice for travellers. Dive into these guest stories and see why so many love staying with us!
“Super nice, modern and comfy cabin 😁 Kids loved the thermal pool. Wiĺl highly recommend, great value even the bed was super comfy. We had 4 cabins booked, different sizes, and everyone was very happy with their accommodation.”
- Kim
“My second stay at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park. The log cabin was cute! Warm and comfortable with everything I needed. The hot pool was again fantastic. Staff are friendly and helpful. Look forward to staying again soon.”
- Claire
“This place is great. Very affordable and still has quite a number of amenities. The best being all guests having access to both the hot and cold pools. Basic pools they are but very much of value for what we paid for.”
- Nilanke
“We truly enjoyed our stay at the cabin here. The facilities are spacious & clean. The thermal hot pools are decent. It is cute that they have a herb garden if you cook when camping.”
- Jenny
“When it comes to amenities for the price, as a camper with a tent, it was fantastic. Plenty of space in the kitchen to cook with an abundance of hobs . Wi-Fi for 1gb included. BBQ available also. That’s only talking about all the practical amenities and I haven’t even mentioned the table tennis, great showers and hot pool. As a whole, I would totally recommend it. Great value.”
- Ryan
“The best place to spend a few nights to get away from normal life! We love staying in the log cabins and even took our dog last time we stayed. Simple rules for bringing a dog (no dogs in buildings, must be on a lead, etc) and the staff were lovely. We loved it so much that after our first stat we booked another weekend in a month!! Clean updated facilities, spotless rooms with comfy beds and clean linen, good cooking facilities! Best holiday park ever.”
- Melissa
“The most amazing campsite on our roadie so far. Spacious, beautiful grounds make for an uncrowded feel, even in the peak of summer. Everything Is an amazing quality and maintained to a great Standard for a holiday park. Free heated swimming pool, and range of facilities including kitchen/ laundry / dining and lounge make for a very comfortable camping experience. Also the nicest and cleanest bathroom and shower rooms than any camp area I've experienced.”
- Kayleigh
“I recently stayed here in the dorm bed room/cabin. It was great, very clean, spotless actually and there was hotplates, kettle, cutlery, plates, fridge also. The shared bathroom was also very clean and large. All the staff I spoke with were nice, friendly and helpful. I would happily stay here again. Price affordable too.”
- Sirl
“I've been twice now. I stayed in two different kinds of cabins and loved the experience both times. The pools and shared spaces are great, and there's so much to do around the area of the park itself as well.”
- Nicoline
“Beautiful parklike setting close to attractions. The swimming pool and 4 other thermal pools were the icing on the cake”
- Jacquie
“Stayed for the first time here in winter and the cabin we stayed at was clean, cute in size but had everything we needed! The surroundings was also quiet at night. Looking forward to staying here again!”
- Lorraine
Essential Tips for a Weekend in Rotorua
Are you dreaming of a quick getaway that’s both relaxing and adventurous? Look no further than beautiful Rotorua! Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Rotorua offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and activities for the whole family.
At Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park, we believe that the best weekend getaways are all about creating memories, not stressing over logistics. That’s why we’ve crafted this guide to help you maximise your visit while keeping things budget-friendly.
Enjoy Nature’s Playground
Whakarewarewa Forest, just moments from our park, is perfect for family adventures. Explore the towering Redwoods on foot or bike along the trails. For an exhilarating experience, try the Redwoods Treewalk, taking you high into the treetops for stunning views. Families with younger children will enjoy the Mokopuna Track, an easy trail through the forest where kids can safely explore and connect with nature.
Keep It Simple
Exploring Rotorua’s food scene doesn’t have to be fancy. Enjoy casual dining options like food trucks at the Thursday night markets or pick up ingredients from the grocery store and prepare a meal in the communal kitchen at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park or on our covered barbecues. These choices not only save money but also offer a laid-back atmosphere where kids can unwind after a day of adventure.
Relax and Unwind
After a day of exploring, return to Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park to relax. Our facilities include free on-site hot pools, perfect for soothing tired muscles and enjoying the starry night—a perfect end to a busy day while keeping the kids entertained.
Bring Only The Essentials
Lastly, don’t forget essentials like comfortable shoes, layers of clothing, water bottles, snacks, and a camera to capture your memories. Packing light ensures you have everything you need without feeling weighed down.
Whether you're drawn to natural beauty, cultural experiences, or a peaceful retreat, Rotorua offers an unforgettable getaway for families. Book your weekend stay today and find out why Rotorua is a beloved destination for both adventure and relaxation. We look forward to welcoming you!
Rotorua Central City Cafés
Rotorua has plenty to offer when finding a hot drink and a bite to eat. Whether you’re getting on the road or meeting a friend for a catch-up over a ‘cuppa’, the central location of Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park is a short drive into town. Below are a few local spots nearby the park to help fuel your stay.
Shortened to “Capers” around town, this is a staple location for meeting friends in town for a bite to eat. The breakfast and lunch menu runs daily from 7 am to 2 pm and features several gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. The cabinet is also filled with sweet and savoury treats, which pair well with the organic fair-trade coffee.
Scope sits in a prime location in the CBD for eat-in, takeaway, cabinet treats and all-day breakfast/lunch. The business is #wildaboutflavour and the food does not fall short. It is also a short walk from the bank, the main shopping centre, and the lakefront.
Enjoy the funky and friendly dining experience on offer at Zippy’s, just off the main strip of town. The café offers cabinet food, a menu of main dishes that change often, and hot drinks. We recommend sitting in the outdoor space outback on a nice day!
Stop into the Fat Dog for an easy-to-please breakfast and lunch! From eggs bene to burgers to pizza, there is something for the whole family. The café is conveniently located next door to a partnering gastropub, The Fainting Goat.
Our team is happy to share more local recommendations during your stay! Feel free to ask a reception, we’re here to help make sure your stay in Rotorua is memorable.
Rotorua Activities Under $25
Rotorua is a fantastic holiday destination for all ages and interests. If you’re wanting to explore our beautiful city without too much splurging, it’s always best to get some local recommendations. Whether you are looking for beautiful walks, fantastic swimming spots, or something else entirely, Rotorua has a wide range of brilliant activities for the whole family. Here is our guide for an activity-filled day in Rotorua, all for under $25.
Walk in the Redwoods (Free)
Our day starts with a quick 5-minute drive from Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park to the Waipa entrance to the Redwood Forest. Although the forest has a reputation for some of the best mountain biking trails in the world, it also has some terrific walking tracks. Simply follow the walking signs around the forest, and see some of the beautiful scenery that Rotorua has to offer.
Coffee & Shinny Dip ($5)
After a stroll in the forest, you may have worked up a bit of an appetite, or at least be in the mood for a cup of coffee. Fortunately for you, there are a couple of options at the Waipa car park. Grab a bite at Trail Kitchen or go to Secret Spot and have a cup of coffee while you relax your feet in a “Shinny Dip” foot spa. Regardless of what café you decide to go to, don’t spend too long there – your day of activities has only just begun!
Kerosene Creek/Hot and Cold Creek (Free)
Have you ever wanted to swim in a natural hot pool? Just a 20-minute drive from the Waipa carpark, you’ll find yourself choosing between a couple of Rotorua’s most popular natural hot pools. Kerosene Creek is unique in that it is a swimmable hot spring with its own waterfall. This makes the hot pool somewhat reminiscent of the Pink and White Terraces. Alternatively, if Kerosene Creek is just a bit hot for your liking, try Hot n Cold Creek. As the name suggests, Hot n Cold Creek is the meeting point between a hot spring and a cold spring. This means that whether you want to sit in steaming hot water or something a little bit cooler, you can find the perfect temperature for you.
With both Kerosene Creek and Hot n Cold Creek, it is important to remember that you are swimming in thermal hot pools. This means that any swimwear may smell of sulphur afterwards, and it is not recommended to put your head underwater.
Centennial Park (Free/Cost of BBQ From the Supermarket)
If you feel like going for a late afternoon or evening stroll, now is the time to visit Centennial Park. Head back towards Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park, and just before you reach us, turn left up Mokoia Drive.
Centennial Park is stunning year-round. Whether you are wanting to see the cherry blossom trees in spring, or the tones of orange and red of autumn, Centennial Park shows off different colours for each season. This beautiful park is a great place for dinner, with a few picnic tables and a public access BBQ. Just make sure to close all gates behind you, so the local sheep don’t decide to have their lunch with you!
Swim in a Lake (Free/Cost of BBQ From the Supermarket)
Alternatively, if you feel like a swim take a quick detour to Lake Tikitapu, Blue Lake. This lake is famous for its clear blue waters as well as being one of the best swimming spots in Rotorua. In the summer, it is an especially popular swimming spot, so if it’s too busy consider driving an extra five minutes round the Loop Road to check out Lake Okareka. Swimming in the lake is a great way to spend a late afternoon or evening, especially as both Lake Okareka and Tikitapu have public access BBQs on some of the beaches.
Visit the Night Market
If you are lucky enough to visit Rotorua on a Thursday Night, make sure to go to the Night Market. The Night Market has an enormous range of food options whether you are looking for a quick bite or a full dinner. Additionally, the Night Market often has live music from local musicians. This is a great way to spend the evening for all ages, and will be sure to have something for everyone.
Camping and Hot Pools at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park (Starting from $22)
After you’ve spent the day exploring some of Rotorua’s most beautiful areas, take some time to relax. Our onsite hot pools are free for paying guests and a great way to wind down. With our campsites starting from just $22 per person and cabin-style accommodation from $50 per person, Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park is a great home base to spend time with your friends and family.
Kid-Approved Summer Camping Checklist
So, you've set your sights on a summer camping adventure with your little ones, cruising across Aotearoa during the school holidays? Well, you've picked the right place to visit on your journey. Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park is in the heart of the North Island, offering you and your whānau an unforgettable experience. To ensure a good old Kiwi-style camping trip, you'll want to ensure you have all the gear.
Here's a checklist of must-haves to make your camping adventure a breeze.
Sunblock: The Kiwi sun can be harmful, so you'll want to grab an SPF sunblock to protect your skin from the summer rays.
Bug Spray: Insect repellent is your best friend for outdoor activities. Choose a kid-friendly bug spray to help protect you from biting insects like mosquitoes and sandflies.
Warm Knitwear: Even in summer, Rotorua nights can be a bit chilly. Pack some warm clothing in your bag, like a fleece or a woollen blanket, to keep warm on those cool mornings.
Hats and Sunglasses: Remember to pack your hat and sunnies to keep that blistering sun off your face and your eyes while enjoying our scenic walking tracks and exploring the area.
Togs: With Rotorua’s gorgeous lakes and swimming holes, we recommend packing togs for the kids. There's nothing like a dip or a splash around to make special summer memories.
Water Bottles: Stay hydrated while you're out and about. Fill up your reusable water bottles, and if you plan on going off track, consider getting a water purifier.
First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen, especially with tamariki running around. Pack a kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and prescription meds.
Comfortable Footwear: From mountain biking our world-renowned trails to lounging by a lakefront, ensure you have comfy, durable footwear that can handle all Kiwi terrain.
Remember, a well-prepped camping trip equals an unforgettable adventure. By ticking off these essentials, you'll be all set to create some fantastic memories with your whānau during your summer camping adventure.
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park can't wait to welcome you with open arms, and if you haven’t already secured your trip, book your stay today.