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
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