Here’s our local guide to making the most of your Rotorua summer, all just minutes from Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park.
Adrenaline & Adventure
Get ready to explore the stunning natural playground right next to the park.
Whakarewarewa Forest Trails (The Redwoods): World-renowned for its biking and walking tracks, the Redwoods are right on our doorstep.
- Biking: Tackle trails for every level, from easy family rides to heart-pumping downhills. Tip: Check the Redwoods Visitor Centre for trail maps!
- Walking: Wander beneath the towering redwoods for a peaceful forest walk and stop at the Visitor Centre for a cold drink or ice cream before heading back.
Dive Into Rotorua’s Stunning Lakes
Rotorua is surrounded by stunning lakes, perfect for swimming, picnics, and water fun on long summer days.
- Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake): A favourite for locals, with clear blue water, BBQ areas, and a sandy beach.
- Lake Tarawera: Surrounded by native bush, it’s ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- Lake Okareka: A peaceful spot with calm, shallow water – perfect for little ones.
Summer Nights & Delicious Bites
After a day of adventure, head to Eat Streat — Rotorua’s dining hot spot!
- Choose from local favourites like CBK, Atticus Finch, and Leonardo’s Pure Italian.
- The covered central walkway is the focal point for this all-weather al fresco dining area, making it ideal for year-round entertainment.
- Grab dessert from Lady Janes and stroll along the lakefront.
Skyline Rotorua
Only 15 minutes from the park, Skyline Rotorua is packed with fun for all ages.
- Take the gondola for amazing views across the lake and city.
- Race your mates down the famous Luge tracks.
- Test your nerves on the Skyswing or Zipline.
- End your day with a delicious buffet at Stratosfare Restaurant as the sun sets over Rotorua.
Stay & Play at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park
At Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park, you’re close to everything that makes Rotorua unforgettable.
- Cabins, motels, and campsites for every traveller
- A kids’ bike track, playground, and BBQ areas
- Spacious grounds surrounded by nature
Ready to make the most of summer? Pack your bags, grab the family, and experience the magic of Rotorua.
Book your stay today and start planning your summer adventure!
Summer holidays in Rotorua are all about sunshine, adventure, and those long, golden evenings that feel like they could last forever. Warm days make it the perfect time to explore Rotorua’s beautiful lakes, wander through the Redwoods, take on Skyline Rotorua’s gondola and Luge, and enjoy a relaxed dinner along Eat Streat.
Plan your stay and start exploring Rotorua. Book your cabin, campsite, or family unit today!
Find Us
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park
463 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua
Contact Us
07 346 3140
info@rotoruathermal.co.nz
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With daylight saving bringing longer evenings, Rotorua becomes the perfect place to squeeze more adventure into your day. Extra sunlight means more time for scenic gondola rides, wandering the redwoods, lakeside walks, or relaxing in outdoor mineral pools. You can even fit in a visit to a market or enjoy a meal outdoors while the sun sets.
Whether you’re here for a short break or a longer stay, Rotorua’s extra daylight hours give you more time to experience what makes this city special. Check out our handpicked list of the best things to do in Rotorua below and make the most of the extra sunshine.
Scenic Gondola Rides at Skyline
- Ride the gondola to the top of Mt Ngongotaha in the evening.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the city and Lake Rotorua.
- Ideal for golden hour photography as the sun sets over the lakes.
Redwoods Treewalk
- Walk among towering redwoods illuminated with soft lights.
- Evening option that blends natural beauty with a magical atmosphere.
- Perfect for families, couples, and photographers.
Lakeside Picnics & Eat Streat
- Pack a picnic and enjoy it by Lake Rotorua as the sun sets.
- Take a stroll along the lakefront and soak up the long daylight.
- Head to Eat Streat for a variety of dining options and a vibrant evening atmosphere.
- Perfect for relaxing, socialising, and capturing memorable photos during golden hour.
Rotorua Night Markets
- Explore local crafts, food trucks, and live music.
- Typically held Thursday evenings in town.
- A budget-friendly way to experience local culture and flavours.
Evening Cultural Experiences
- Some Māori villages offer early evening cultural shows.
- Look for combined tours that start late afternoon, finishing before dark.
- Experience traditional performances and hangi feasts in the extended daylight.
Relaxing Mineral Spas
- Polynesian Spa stays open late, perfect for an evening soak in geothermal pools.
- Enjoy lake views while relaxing in warm mineral waters after a day of adventure.
Night Walks & Photography Spots
- Stroll around Government Gardens, Kuirau Park, or along the lakefront.
- Capture the lingering sunlight on geothermal features or enjoy the city lights reflecting on the lake.
- Great for casual fitness, photography, or a peaceful evening outing.
Free Hot Springs & Natural Pools
- Kerosene Creek offers a serene evening soak in a natural geothermal stream.
- Quiet, forested setting perfect for a relaxing experience before sunset.
Daylight saving gives Rotorua visitors more time to explore and enjoy the city. Take in panoramic views, wander illuminated forests, stroll along the lakefront, experience vibrant markets and Māori culture, or relax in warm geothermal pools. With the sun lingering well into the evening, Rotorua offers extra hours to make memories, try new experiences, and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Plan your stay and start exploring Rotorua on a budget. Book your cabin, campsite, or family unit today!
Find Us
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park
463 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua
Contact Us
07 346 3140
info@rotoruathermal.co.nz
Site Admin
Helpful Links:
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© 2023 Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park - Website Powered By Seekom
Rotorua is packed with experiences that don’t cost the earth. If you're keen to explore the region without blowing your budget, here are some of the best things to do for $25 or less per person, and many of them are free!
Whether you’re travelling with the kids, heading out with friends, or just want to stretch your legs and soak up some Rotorua magic, these ideas are a great way to make the most of your stay at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park.
Yes, you read that right, mini golf and fluffy rabbits! This quirky little spot is not your average mini golf course. You’ll get a fun 18-hole round with the added bonus of meeting some friendly bunnies hopping around the course. It’s a hit with both kids and adults.
Step into a world of illusions, puzzles, and creative play. Wonderworld is an indoor and outdoor attraction that’s perfect for rainy days or curious minds. With glow rooms, interactive exhibits, and some seriously fun optical illusions, it’s a great way to spend an hour or two.
Pack some snacks and roll out a picnic blanket in the stunning Government Gardens. Surrounded by historic buildings, manicured lawns, and vibrant flower beds, it’s the perfect setting for a peaceful lunch. Bring a frisbee or just lie back and enjoy the scenery.
For those who enjoy a scenic walk, the Tarawera Trail offers stunning lake views and lush native bush. You don’t need to complete the whole track to enjoy it, just pick a section and stroll at your own pace. Perfect for walkers who want to escape into nature without spending a cent.
Another local favourite, the Okere Falls Track, is a short and easy bush walk with epic river views and waterfall lookouts. You might even catch a glimpse of whitewater rafters plunging down the falls. It’s a great way to get close to Rotorua’s natural beauty, camera recommended!
Calling all cat lovers! Enjoy a hot drink while hanging out with beautiful, pure-bred, friendly felines at Rotorua’s Fancy Meow Cat Café. Entry includes an hour of cat cuddles, the purrfect rainy-day activity.
The Whakarewarewa Forest (aka The Redwoods) is world-famous for its mountain biking trails. If you’ve brought your own bike, it won’t cost you a thing to enjoy the tracks. For those who need to hire one, local bike rentals start from around $30, but just exploring on foot is completely free too.
Right in the heart of Rotorua, Kuirau Park offers bubbling mud pools, steaming geothermal vents, footbaths, and gardens, all completely free. There’s also a playground for kids and plenty of space to wander and relax.
Held every Thursday evening in the city centre, the Rotorua Night Market is a great place to browse local food, arts, and live music. Entry is free, and you can grab delicious eats from around $10.
This easy 5.5km loop track around the stunning Blue Lake takes about 1.5 hours. It’s a peaceful, scenic walk and great for all fitness levels. Pack swimmers if the weather’s warm!
Get creative and snap some hilarious photos at this interactive indoor gallery. The 3D Trick Art Gallery features floor-to-ceiling optical illusions where you can pose with everything from wild animals to fantasy scenes. A fun, low-cost activity for families, couples, or groups of friends, rain or shine!
While the Rotorua Museum building remains closed for renovations, the beautifully maintained grounds and surrounding art and sculpture installations are still open and free to explore.
Pop into this creative community hub in the city centre. You’ll find rotating exhibitions, art workshops, and often local markets. It’s a great way to experience the local art scene.
An easy 20-minute drive from town, this beautiful walking track winds through redwoods and past crystal-clear natural springs. It’s peaceful, unique, and a photographer’s dream.
Located near the lakefront and Government Gardens, this short geothermal walk is full of steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and birdlife. The boardwalk leads you right past natural sulphur formations with views across Lake Rotorua. A unique, easy stroll close to town.
Bonus Tip: Soak and Stay with Us
After a day of exploring Rotorua’s best budget-friendly experiences, relax back at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park. With affordable accommodation options and our very own complementary hot pools, it’s the perfect base for adventure without the price tag.
Plan your stay and start exploring Rotorua on a budget. Book your cabin, campsite, or family unit today!
Find Us
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park
463 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua
Contact Us
07 346 3140
info@rotoruathermal.co.nz
Site Admin
Helpful Links:
Follow Us:
© 2023 Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park - Website Powered By Seekom
Rotorua’s geothermal wonders and outdoor adventures make it a top destination for travellers. But what if it rains? Don’t worry! Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or solo, Rotorua offers a range of indoor activities to keep you warm, entertained, and enjoying every moment.
Staying at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park means you are just minutes away from some of the best indoor attractions in Rotorua. This makes it an ideal base for those wet days when you want to relax and explore without missing out. Here are some nearby favourites to check out:
Family Fun & Adventure
- Motion Centre Rotorua: Action-packed with laser tag, ten-pin bowling, and trampolines, this indoor entertainment centre is great for kids and adults alike.
- Drift Kartz Rotorua: Experience indoor go-kart racing for an adrenaline packed rainy-day activity.
- The Wall Climbing Gym: Indoor rock climbing is both a fun challenge and a perfect way to keep active.
Relaxation & Wellness
- Rotorua Aquatic Centre: Inside heated pools, and water playgrounds make this a family-friendly spot to stay active indoors.
- Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa: Enjoy the calming geothermal hot pools and spa treatments. An ideal for a cosy, rainy-day escape.
Food & Drink
- Eat Streat Dining Precinct: Find a variety of restaurants and cafés offering everything from casual bites to gourmet meals, all under one roof.
- Fancy Meow Cat Café: Relax with a coffee while cuddling adorable purebred cats and kittens in this unique café experience.
Movies & Quiet Time
- Reading Cinemas: A warm escape from the rain, perfect for unwinding with the latest blockbuster and a bucket of popcorn.
- McLeods Booksellers Rotorua: A treasure trove for book lovers, this cosy bookstore invites you to browse the shelves and uncover your next favourite read.
Rain or shine, Rotorua has indoor activities for everyone, whether it’s family fun like ten-pin bowling, relaxing indoor spa experiences, or catching the newest blockbuster. After a day exploring these attractions, you can unwind at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park, conveniently located near many of Rotorua’s best spots.
Book your stay at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park today and enjoy the best of Rotorua, no matter the weather!
If you need accommodation for your next trip to Rotorua, look no further than our family friendly holiday park with a range of affordable accommodation options.
Find Us
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park
463 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua
Contact Us
07 346 3140
info@rotoruathermal.co.nz
Site Admin
Helpful Links:
Follow Us:
© 2023 Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park - Website Powered By Seekom
Rotorua isn’t just another holiday destination; it’s a geothermal hotspot that feels like another world. From bubbling mud pools and erupting geysers to colourful silica terraces and natural hot springs, this region is packed with earth-powered wonders. And the best part? Many of the most stunning geothermal attractions are just minutes from Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park. Whether you're after dramatic landscapes or a taste of Māori culture, this guide highlights the must-see geothermal experiences to add to your Rotorua itinerary.
Known for its vibrant geothermal features, Wai-O-Tapu boasts the iconic Champagne Pool, the neon-green Devil’s Bath, and the daily eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser. It's a photographer's paradise with well-maintained walking tracks.
Formed after the 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera, Waimangu is the world's youngest geothermal system. Visitors can explore steaming craters, hot springs, and the serene Lake Rotomahana. It's ideal for nature lovers seeking a peaceful experience.
Te Puia offers a blend of geothermal wonders and Māori culture. Home to the Pohutu Geyser, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, it also features the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Experience a living Māori village where residents utilise geothermal resources for cooking and bathing. Guided tours provide insights into traditional practices and the community's way of life.
Hell’s Gate is Rotorua’s most active geothermal area, featuring steaming fumaroles, boiling mud pools, and the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere. Visitors can relax in therapeutic mud baths and sulfur spas.
A bit off the beaten path, Orakei Korako is renowned for its colourful silica terraces, geysers, and the rare geothermal cave. Accessible via a short boat ride, it offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.
Free Geothermal Spots in Rotorua
Located in the city centre, Kuirau Park offers free access to steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and foot baths. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing soak.
Along the shores of Lake Rotorua, visitors can witness geothermal activity with steaming vents and sulfur formations. The area is rich in birdlife and offers picturesque walking trails.
Plan Your Geothermal Adventure
Ready to explore nature at its steamiest? Rotorua’s geothermal attractions offer more than just hot pools and geysers, they tell the story of the land, its people, and the powerful forces beneath our feet. From relaxing mud spas to cultural encounters and hidden valleys, there's no shortage of unique adventures to be had. Base yourself at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park and start ticking off these unforgettable geothermal gems, one steamy stop at a time.
If you need accommodation for your next trip to Rotorua, look no further than our family friendly holiday park with a range of affordable accommodation options.
Find Us
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park
463 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua
Contact Us
07 346 3140
info@rotoruathermal.co.nz
Site Admin