Rotorua is packed full of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy! There is so much to choose from, so I have put together my favourite’s for a weekend away in Rotorua! Mix and match all you like, there is enough activities to fill up a whole two days.
Explore and Relax
Kuirau Park and Farmers Market
Take some of Aura’s free scooters down to Kuirau park the only free geothermal park in Rotorua. Learn about the history behind the park & enjoy the geothermal action before taking the Green Corridor track back across town. You may even go through the Sunday morning market and have time to grab a bite to eat … word on the street is the bacon and egg sandwiches are a treat!
Treewalk at the Redwoods
It says it all in the name, the Redwoods Treewalk consists of 28 swing bridges which create a 700 meter long course through the Redwoods 20 meters above ground! You can go either day or night and it’s open until late in the summer months. I think the Treewalk is best during sunset hour, head up into the trees during daylight and come down at night, you get the best of both worlds!
Geothermal Mineral Pools
Look no further than Aura’s indoor mineral pools for your geothermal fix! At a cosy 39 degrees, they are lovely for a relaxing break away from the children… oh I mean… from the stressful organisation of travelling! The water is pumped up through our onsite bore, which goes 122 meters underground! Crazy right?
Fun
Mitai Maori Village – Evening Experience
“KIA ORA! WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF MITAI” is what they say as you enter and welcomed you are! Mitai Maori Village is a small introduction into a vast world of Maori Culture. You’ll be treated to an amazing Maori Performance, enjoy a Hangi, (traditional meal cooked underground using hot rocks) & be treated to a walk through native NZ forest at night where you can see some glow worms.
Rotorua Canopy Tours
Zipping through some of NZ’s most native and oldest trees? Rotorua Canopy Tours is the place! The time flies by (no pun intended) as the guides teach you about the history of the forest and ensure you have the most amazing experience in our native bush. Make sure you look around when the canopy opens in the tree– it’s a view you’ll never forget! Most people are too busy making faces because the wind has caught their cheeks and that’s another view you’ll want to capture!
* Be sure to check age restrictions before booking
Luge at Skyline
Since 1986, people have been racing down the redwoods forest track in a Luge Cart and now it’s your turn to join the club! With three tracks to choose from & a killer view, it’s the perfect activity to fill an afternoon. After a few hours of racing, head to the Stratosphere restaurant and enjoy their extensive buffet, they have a huge range of options including the best creme brulee in town!
*Please check opening days of Skyline before planning your visit.
Eats
Fat Dog Café
One of my favourite cafes in Rotorua! Serving food since 1995, there has always been a steady flow of people creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The best time to go is for a late breakfast or lunch otherwise you might get stuck in the queue of regulars! The portions are super generous, and my favourite is the ‘regular’ hot chocolate, homemade baked beans & toast and always the caramel slice!
Maisie has been working at Aura Accommodation for the last 3 months. While originally from England, she moved to Rotorua with her family when she was 3. She lives for the outdoors, particularly mountain biking and kayaking and recently completed a Certificate in Adventure Tourism.
This blog was last updated in June 2021.
Still looking for some ideas? Be sure to have a read of our other blogs to get more aura-some top tips!
Best Eats and Coffee | Mountain Biking Around Rotorua | Adrenaline Junkie – Rotorua | Lucy’s Top Tips for Two Days in Rotorua
