Location: Rotorua
Top Things to do in Rotorua
Things to do in Rotorua, North Island: The Best Sightseeing Tours
Bubbling mineral springs and pools promise maximum relaxation in Rotorua, on New Zealand's North Island. Therapeutic hot mud pools, dramatic geysers and a buried village are within easy reach of the city. What happens in the bubbling mud geysers of "Rotovegas"—the area at the top of Fenton Street—stays in Rotovegas. Once you've made the most of the mud, soar nearly 2,000 feet on the Skyline Gondola for views of Lake Rotorua, then zip back down to explore the lake by paddle steamer, fishing charter or WWII amphibious vehicle.
Restaurants in Rotorua
1. Private 2 Day Tour: Hobbiton, Waitomo, Rotorua Geothermal & Hamilton Gardens
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
This two day trip covers the most iconic attractions in New Zealand! Ideal for travelers with limited time or as a pre or post cruise ship trip. Do not miss out on this amazing 2 day fully customized luxury adventure! • Pick Up & Drop off at anywhere in Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua or Tauranga. • Luxury Mercedes Vehicle • Professional, friendly & knowledgeable tour guide • Admission & Guided Tour Inside Waitomo Glowworm Cave including a Boat Ride. • Admission to Te Puia Geothermal Valley in Rotorua. • 1 Night Accommodation in Rotorua. • Hobbiton Movie Set Admission & Guided Tour. • Complimentary Drink (Alcoholic or Non) at Green Dragon Inn inside Hobbiton Village. • 90min River Cruise at The Hamilton Gardens.
Inclusions: Overnight accommodation., GST (Goods and Services Tax), Bottled water, Snacks, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup, Hotel drop-off
Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified
Reviewed By AdiS491
The tour of the set was excellent. The place is a well oiled machine from ticket office to bus ride etc. Our tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable about the movies and all other aspects . The movie set was awesome and the gardens amazing . Even if you’re not a movie buff the experience and sheer brilliance of PJ et al is totally worth it . Having a drink ( free) at the Green Dragon ???? was fantastic.
2. Auckland to Waitomo Caves, Hobbiton & Rotorua 2-Day Private Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Pass through the beautiful NZ countryside on your way to see the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, then experience what the unique town of Rotorua has to offer from thermal hot mud pools, geysers and our Maori cultural centre of New Zealand. Choose to incorporate Hobbiton Movie Set into your tour. Experience all of this in two wonderful days on a private tour in a Mercedes luxury vehicle just for you. Pick-up in Auckland and drop-off in Auckland or Rotorua.
Inclusions: Fully guided Private Tour in Mercedes luxury vehicle., Pick-up/drop-off in Auckland incl airport/cruise terminal., Tour times flexible to work in with your requirements., Complimentary snacks & water., All guide expenses (e.g. guide accommodation & meals)., All tours support local eco-cultural initiatives.
Exclusions: Entry fees., Guest accommodation and meals., Anything not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.
Reviewed By AylaS171
I had the best experience with Time Unlimited Tours, they were so prompt with their service. I had a group of 70 people getting transported from one venue to another. It was absolutely hassle free and my guests were very impressed! They were on time, so kind and helpful. Neill and Ceillhe are the loviest people and I just can't recommend their service enough!! 10/10 across the board. I would use this company again, ANY day of the week!
3. From Tauranga. Private Day Tour. Wia-O-Tapu Wonderland & Te Puia Geysers
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Two of New Zealand's most spectacular Geothermal Parks. Small Groups, Max 8 people. Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland ... A self-guided tour following demarcated tracks through a stunning variety of volcanic phenomena. You’ll see fantastic naturally colored hot and cold pools, the world-famous Champagne Pool, massive craters and New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool; Wai-O-Tapu was formed over thousands of years of continuous volcanic activity. Te Puia Geysers ... Heartland of Rotorua's geothermal activity & Maori culture. See and experience 'Pohutu' geyser the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere in action rumbling away as it erupts boiling water and steam up to 100 feet. An awesome sight. See & smell boiling mud pools, hot water pools, steam vents, a steaming volcanic landscape.
Inclusions: Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, Professional local kiwi tour guide/driver, Full audio commentary
Exclusions: Admission fees & lunch excluded
Reviewed By Tourist808
We booked the Private Waitomo Caves and Hobbitton with Tauranga Scenic Tours. Both tours are must dos! I’m a Lord of the Rings fan, so I really enjoyed Hobbitton. Patrick told us how the kiwi fruit is grown, and pulled off the road so we could see a plant for ourselves, We were lucky enough to see cherry blossoms in full bloom, and Patrick found some excellent trees for us to stop and take photos with. That was an unexpected surprise - how many cherry blossom trees are on the route to Waitomo. We were a little pressed for time between our bookings for Waitomo Caves and Hobbitton, but we also spent more time in the gift shops than Patrick probably figured. Patrick got us his discounted tour ticket rates and let us decide how to pay. He was very accommodating. I would use him again if I were to return to Tauranga.
4. From Tauranga. Private Day Tour. Rotorua Geysers and Hobbiton Movie Set.
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
See two world-famous attractions in one day. Small-Group, Max 8 People. Te Puia Geysers ... Heartland of Rotorua's geothermal activity & Maori culture. See and experience 'Pohutu' geyser the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere in action rumbling away as it erupts boiling water and steam up to 100 feet. An awesome sight. See & smell boiling mud pools, hot water pools, steam vents, a steaming volcanic landscape. HOBBITON ... A Visit to Middle Earth - Escape into the enchanting world of JRR Tolkien’s famous stories. A world of enduring fantasy where the amazing films were brought to life. Set across the 12 acres Hobbit Village. See Bilbo’s house, The Water Mill, Green Dragon Inn, the Arched Bridge, 44 Hobbit houses, gardens, wandering pathways, The Party Tree, lakes. If you haven’t read the books or seen the movies you will still love it.
Inclusions: Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, Professional Kiwi Tour Guide, Full audio commentary
Exclusions: Lunch, Excludes entry fees to Te Puia & Hobbiton
Reviewed By jasoncuray
I had a wonderful tour off the cruise with this wonderful guy, Pat! The trip was full of information, he'll be there to pick you up, our trip started with the drive to Rotorua and we had a wonderful time there and it is such a fascinating experience to witness Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal, HUGE KiwiFruit farm, and beautiful sceneries(falls, rivers, mountain) on our side trips(For Instagram lol)! The Living Maori Village experience is unforgettable, you get to sing and dance with them and witness the famous "Haka". The Maori people are just like all New Zealanders(Kiwis) and the most friendly and inviting people I have been around. You will appreciate going around with Pat, such an amazing guy I would say. Worth it!!!
5. Amazing New Zealand Itineraries & chauffeur-driven tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 21 reviews
Our tours are personalised to suit your interests and time available, choose from 1 day to 21 days ! You can self-drive or have your own chauffeur-guide. Please contact us with your requirements.
Inclusions: Private transportation, All Fees and Taxes
Exclusions: Own meals or optional extras
Reviewed By Charlie S
We are just finishing a two tour of NZ. Amazing NZ helped us design our itinerary, made recommendations on things to see, booked our accommodations and car, and reserved various tours for us. We have had a great time. Good on ya, Amazing NZ!
6. Redwood Forest , Blue Springs & Huka Falls Day Tour from Auckland
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Take a Tour which is Good for your soul. Visit Nature & Natural Places in New Zealand. Book with us for a Flexible , affordable Private Tour. Take your break wherever you want, No Sharing or Group Tour. Enjoy your Privacy and Family Tour Time :)
Inclusions: Driver / Guide, Private Transportation , Air-Conditioned Vehicle, Drinking Water 1 bottle per person, Snack / Chips, Soft drink
Exclusions: Tour Guide Tips ($10 per person), Lunch, Personal Expenses
Reviewed By Isis_Pinto
The beaches are amazing and our guide and driver, Sharma was impeccable, a great guy. Also, he takes the best pics! ????????
7. Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 190 reviews
Glow-worms are the highlight of any night-time stroll in New Zealand, and when found in abundance they can be as breathtaking as our clearest night sky. Join our experienced guides on a trip into the native bush to witness this phenomenon for yourself. Learn about the life-cycle of this fascinating insect, experience New Zealand’s wildlife by night and top off this stellar evening by relaxing under the stars. An unique experience for all your senses. Highlights • Glow-worm, waterfalls, wildlife and star gazing. • New Zealand Native Forest - all by the cover of darkness. • Small group, relaxed atmosphere.
Inclusions: Driver/guide, Air-conditioned vehicle, Light refreshments
Exclusions: Nothing
Reviewed By triniboyinNZ
Stephen gave us a very knowledgeable, exclusive and friendly tour of major highlights around Rotorua. We were really appreciative of the information and the hot chocolate :-) It had amazing scenery , views of the lakes and great walks.
8. Private Tour: 8-Day North Island Tour from Auckland Including Rotorua and Wellington
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Venture from Auckland to the North Island on this private 8-day tour that takes you by private, luxury vehicle to Coromandel, Whitianga, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park and Wellington. Take guided sightseeing tours, discover natural hot springs, witness amazing geothermal activity, enjoy scenic nature walks through kauri tree forests, and admire views of majestic volcanoes and beautiful beaches, with plenty of free time to explore more on your own. Your private guide will teach you about Maori culture, as well as the history, geography and wildlife of New Zealand. You’ll experience North Island’s highlights as well as hidden gems not seen on normal coach tours. The service that we provide is a private luxury tour service, not a large group tour. Other than our friendly tour staff you will not be sharing your tour with anyone outside of your own party so you can rest assured that this is your tour and we’ll do exactly what you want to make it your perfect trip.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Private tour, Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), Live commentary on board, Professional tour guide (who is also the driver) , Transport by private vehicle including fuel , Hotel pickup and drop-off, Sightseeing tours of Auckland and Wellington, 7 nights accommodation in your selected category of hotel
Exclusions: Gratuities, Optional activities, Personal expenses, Food and drinks, not specified in the itinerary (lunch and dinner)
Reviewed By Pipnruss
Fiordland Lodge and Doubtful Sound. Fantastic ferry ride across Lake Manapouri and bus ride over the Wilmot Pass to board the Fiordland Navigator for 2 nights. 3 sunny, calm days to relax on board, spoiled by the chef's lovely food and Courtney's very knowledgeable commentary about the Sounds, history, wildlife, birdlife and little things like having complete silence in the Sound to enjoy the peace and look at the amazing mountains and their reflections in the calm water. An unexpected run out into the Tasman Sea was a bonus. The Fiordland Lodge is an American style Lodge built with lots of logs and wood and stone, very spacious. Friendly helpful staff. Located 6km from Te Anau. Our only concern was the lack of food choice for dinner, on a 3 course meal was offered, no light meals. The breakfast (included) was lovely, as was all the food, some interesting variations in tastes.
9. Private Tour: Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
Enjoy a day trip from Auckland to Rotorua with the opportunity to explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Your chauffeur will pick you up from your desired place in Auckland city, and then get ready to enjoy the amazing Rotorua! Rotorua is New Zealand's ultimate holiday destination for locals and overseas visitors. The Waitomo Caves, one of the North Island's most popular attractions. With beautiful caverns and brightly lit glowworms, this sightseeing experience will be one you won't ever forget!
Inclusions: Driver/guide, Transport by private vehicle, Light refreshments and water, Hotel pickup and drop-off, All taxes, fees and handling charges
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Lunch, Excess luggage charges (where applicable), Entrance Tickets
Reviewed By K7293HPjosephh
Wonderful day trip to the glow worms and the Hobbit farm Driver was the best and took great care of us Long day but worth the expense of a private car
10. 3-Day Private All-Inclusive Luxury North Island Tour of New Zealand
Private charter small group tour! Pickup in Auckland-Hotel or Airport arrival! Accomodation in Rotorua. Experience New Zealand and some of its most popular attractions, during this 3-day all inclusive luxury guided excursion. Your adventure includes 4 star accommodations and premium transport in a 2016/17 vehicle. Along with a driver and guide, you will travel to pre-booked attractions like Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Hobbiton Movie Set, Te Puia (Geysers by night including hangi feast) Wai-O-Tapu, Rotorua Gondola, Luge, Agrodome and includes all the extra's like the themed Hobbiton Festive Feast Buffet Lunch, and evening Entertainment packages with cultural shows and the largest geyser in the souther hemisphere!
Inclusions: Two nights accommodation with the option to add more!, Five-star hotel accommodation with Breakfast included, Landing and facility fees, Bottled water, Meals as per itinerary, All activities, Driver and guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned luxury Mercedes vehicle, One plated meal per day (restaurant or themed buffet) except on return day where a packed lunch will be provided
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By Kerry G
Amazing scenery, friendly staff. Very well laid out facility and so clean. Everyone that visits Rotorua should visit this place.
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