Planning a family getaway over the school holidays? Rotorua is the perfect destination for an unforgettable trip filled with adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, or a chance to unwind in our complimentary hot pools exclusive to guests, this 3-day itinerary has everything you need for a fantastic holiday. Pack your bags, gather the family, and get ready to explore the best of Rotorua!
Day 1: Arrival and Exlporation
- Afternoon:
- Arrive at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park and check into your campsite or unit.
- Take a quick break, unpack, and explore the spacious grounds. Get ready for your first adventure!
- Late Afternoon:
- Rotorua Tree Walk (1 hour): Start your trip with a peaceful, elevated walk through Rotorua's magical forest. The Tree Walk is perfect for families and offers a unique perspective of the forest, especially as the sun begins to set and the walkways light up.
- Evening:
- Dinner: Head to Rotorua’s Eat Street or another family-friendly dining spot for a relaxed dinner with something for everyone.
- After dinner, return to Rotorua Thermal to settle in for the night. But first, get everyone into their togs and enjoy our free on-site hot pools—perfectly soothing after a day of travelling and a great way to regroup and plan the next few days’ adventures.
Day 2: Adventure and Fun
- Morning:
- Agrodome (1.5-2 hours): Begin your day with a fun and educational experience at the Agrodome. Enjoy the famous farm show, watch sheep shearing, meet farm animals, and even get the chance to feed them. It’s entertaining and interactive for the kids!
- Afternoon:
- aMAZEme (1 hour): After the Agrodome, head over to aMAZEme, where the family can navigate the maze, play mini-golf, and explore the beautiful garden area.
- Skyline Rotorua (2-3 hours): Next, visit Skyline Rotorua for a thrilling gondola ride with spectacular views of Rotorua and the surrounding landscape. Once at the top, enjoy a family-friendly lunch at the café. Then, let the kids experience the luge rides down the mountain—fun for all ages!
- Evening:
- Relaxation: After a fun-filled day, return to Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park to unwind. Let the kids burn off energy on the playground or sports fields. If the weather isn’t great, they can enjoy the games room, ensuring everyone has space to relax and enjoy themselves.
Day 3: Relax and Departure
- Morning:
- Lakefront & Government Gardens (1.5-2 hours): On your last day, visit the Government Gardens and stroll along the Lake Rotorua lakefront. The gardens are beautiful and perfect for a family walk. Take in the peaceful surroundings and the newly renovated lakefront area.
- Lunch:
- Enjoy a final lunch in Rotorua at a local café or pack a picnic to enjoy sitting by the lake.
- Departure:
- Head to Rotorua Airport or begin your journey back home, taking with you wonderful memories of a fun-filled family holiday in Rotorua!
Optional Add-On:
- Mitai Māori Village (2-3 hours): For a truly unique cultural experience, visit Mitai Māori Village for an evening of Māori traditions. Enjoy a hangi feast, watch a cultural performance, and experience ancient Māori customs, including a traditional welcome ceremony and the famous war canoe display. It’s a great opportunity for the whole family to learn about New Zealand’s Māori heritage.
Rotorua is the ultimate family-friendly holiday spot, offering an exciting mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Whether you’re soaring down the luge, wandering through lush forests, or soaking in hot pools, this 3-day itinerary ensures you make the most of your school holiday trip. So, gather your loved ones, book your stay at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland!
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:
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© 2023 Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park - Website Powered By Seekom
The Rotorua Lakeside Concert has been a beloved community event since 1997, showcasing the region's rich cultural diversity through music. This year, the free Rotorua Lakeside Concert will take place on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025, at the Rotorua Lakefront Village Green. The theme of the concert is, "Funkyside," which promises an unforgettable evening of vibrant performances and community celebration!
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
- Time: 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm
- Location: Rotorua Lakefront Village Green
- Cost: FREE (Or limited reserved seating available to pre-purchase and book online).
Performers:
The lineup for "Funkyside" features an exciting mix of talented artists, including:
- Luke Whaanga – Known for his powerful vocals and unique blend of roots reggae, soul, blues, and R&B.
- Jake Krishnamurti – A skilled trumpet and trombone player from Auckland with extensive performance experience.
- Rawiri Waru – Captivates audiences with his soulful piano melodies.
- Hannah Rees – A seasoned session vocalist and vocal tutor with international experience.
- Anna Grahame – Celebrated for her soulful sound and collaborations with notable New Zealand artists.
Supporting a Worthy Cause:
While the concert is free to attend, attendees are encouraged to donate to collection buckets at the event entrances. This year, all proceeds will go directly to Dementia NZ – Lakes Region.
Memorial Tribute:
Continuing its tradition, the concert will feature a Memorial Tribute Video honouring community members of Rotorua who have passed away in the last 12 months. Submissions for the 2025 tribute are open until Thursday, March 6, 2025. To include a loved one, submit their name and a high-quality photo through the concert's official website.
Event Guidelines:
- Alcohol: Not permitted. Bags and picnic hampers will be checked upon entry.
- Drones and Gazebos: Prohibited during the event.
- Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Attendees are encouraged to bring picnics, rugs, and sunscreen to enjoy the outdoor festivities. A pre-show featuring young talent will commence at 5 PM, followed by the main show at 7 PM. The evening will conclude with a fireworks display around 10:15 PM.
For more information and updates, visit the official website: rotorualakesideconcert.co.nz
Join us at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park for a memorable weekend of music, relaxation, and adventure. Book your accommodation now to avoid missing out!
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 Mountain Biking Recommendations
Rotorua is home to some of the best mountain biking trails in the country - we were even awarded the prestigious gold-level Ride Centre™ status in 2019 by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA), which is a great testament to our mountain biking community. Visitors from all across New Zealand visit Rotorua year-round to enjoy the mountain biking action. There is a wide selection of mountain bike trails to hurtle down from beginner and child-friendly trails to advanced fast-paced, downhill circuits!
No matter what your skill level or age, you will no doubt be able to find a suitable mountain biking trail to enjoy. Here is our pick of mountain biking activities for you to try.
Popular Rotorua MTB Trails
Mokopuna Track
The Mokopuna Track is a shared trail with its entry point alongside Tītokorangi Drive, near the intersection with Tarawera Road. It's an easy undulating trail that's perfect for kids or new riders to help feel more comfortable riding. The two-way trail is also open to walkers and families with prams so make sure to stay alert.
Waipa Kid's Loop
Waipa Car Park provides access to the extensive network of trails in the forest. It also features a one-way Kids' Loop, which includes easy straights, gentle undulations, curves, corners, and diverse forest coverage. This loop is the ideal introduction to mountain biking, offering a great opportunity to learn and practice good riding etiquette.
Dipper
One of the original trails in Whakarewarewa Forest, this iconic route is a must-try. It's highly recommended for families and beginners, featuring mostly flat, flowing terrain with well-formed berms. Perfect for first-time riders or as a warm-up for more experienced riders. The wide tracks make it easy for families to enjoy together, with plenty of space to overtake slower riders.
Whakarewarewa Forest Loop
Ride one of our newly established trails, the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop. This 33km circular, mostly one-way (clockwise) mountain biking trail winds through the forest.
The Loop is predominantly a Grade 2 track, with a few Grade 3 sections mixed in, making it accessible for riders of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels. It's recommended for confident riders. It offers a perfect blend of smooth, flowing trails and a few more challenging sections to keep things exciting.
Shuttles & Bike Rentals
Mountain Bike Rotorua
If you're looking to hire a mountain bike or prefer a guided tour, look no further than Mountain Bike Rotorua. They offer high-quality bike rentals, including E-Bikes, as well as guided mountain biking tours through the Whakarewarewa Forest.
For those who love the thrill of downhill biking but want to save their energy for the ride, why not take a shuttle to the top? Public shuttles operate daily, transporting riders to the start of several popular trails in the forest.
MTB-Friendly Accommodation
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
Upcoming Rotorua Events - 2024/25
Get ready for an exciting summer in Rotorua! For all our guests at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park, there’s no shortage of events to keep you entertained. From vibrant festivals to outdoor adventures, here’s a roundup of what’s happening in Rotorua this summer.
We’ll continue adding to this list as new events pop up. Stay tuned! 😊
He Mākete Tau Hou Pākehā - New Year’s Eve Whānau Market
When: Tuesday, 31 December 2024
Where: Rotorua Night Market Tutanekai Street, Rotorua, New Zealand
Cost: Free
More Info:
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the family at the Whānau Market in Rotorua!
Head to Te Manawa on Tūtānekai Street on Tuesday, 31 December 2024, from 5–9pm. Enjoy delicious international food, live entertainment, and fun activities for all ages.
Look out for the balloon artist and local performers bringing the festive vibes. Performer details coming soon—stay tuned!
A perfect way to farewell 2024 with whānau.
Blue Lake Rowing Regatta
When: Saturday-Sunday, January 18-19 2025
Where: Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake)
Cost: Free
More Info: Visit Rotorua Rowing Club Website
Giant 2W Gravity Enduro
When: Saturday, February 1, 2025
Where: Skyline Rotorua & the Whakarewarewa Forest
What to Expect: The Giant 2W Enduro is a mountain bike series that began in 2013. It was originally launched by Dare to Sweat Events, a local Rotorua-based event company, and is now owned by the Rotorua Mountain Bike Club. The event is organised in partnership with Nduro Events, a leading endurance mountain biking company also based in Rotorua.
Rotorua Home & Garden Show 2025
When: Friday, 14 February – Sunday, 16 February 2025
Where: Energy Events Centre, Queens Drive, Rotorua
Cost: $3 - $6 (All Ages)
What to Expect: Transform your home and garden with fresh ideas and expert advice. This show is packed with inspiration, trends, and innovations to help you create the space of your dreams. Take advantage of exclusive show-only specials and get a chance to win fantastic prizes.
More Info: Rotorua Home & Garden Show 2025
Crankworx Rotorua
When: Wednesday, 5 March – Sunday, 9 March 2025
Where: Mount Ngongotahā, Skyline Rotorua
What to Expect: The world-famous Crankworx returns to Rotorua for another thrilling event packed with downhill racing, freestyle mountain biking, and much more. Watch elite riders take on new tracks and celebrate 10 years of Crankworx in Rotorua.
More Info: Crankworx 2025
Rotorua Off-Road Trail Run / Walk
When: Sunday, 9 March 2025, 7:30 am - 2:00 pm
Where: Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest, Longmile Road, Rotorua
Cost: $10 - $80
What to Expect: Take on the breathtaking scenery of Whakarewarewa Forest with distances for every level, from the Novotel Half Marathon (21.1km) to the 5km Fun Run/Walk. There are also kids' races and fun activities, making it a perfect family-friendly event. Every participant receives a finisher's medal, and there’s a family pass option for groups looking to tackle the trails together.
More Info: Email info@eventpromotions.co.nz for family pass details.
With so much happening this summer in Rotorua, Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park is the ideal base for your adventures. Book your stay with us and enjoy easy access to these incredible events and more!
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
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!