Things to do in Rotorua, North Island: The Best Tours

December 22, 2021 Darwin Bolte

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. Te Puia Geysers, Kiwi bird, Redwood Forest & Highlights Drive: Rotorua Tour

Rotorua, New Zealand New Zealand Discovery Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Explore a land where steam rises all around you, geysers erupt high into the air, hot mud bubbles and jumps, and the Maori people share their stories from past generations. Enjoy a spine chilling live Haka performance. Be enchanted at the Redwood Forest. This tour is specially designed for guest who only have a short amount of time, and would like to to visit the best, of what Rotorua has to offer, on a fully guided tour. With hotel pick up's and drop off's for more convenience.

Inclusions: Pickup and drop off in Rotorua, Official Professional driver/guide, Transport by air-conditioned Luxury minivan, Entrance fees & Guided tour

Exclusions: Lunch is not Included

Reviewed By Kerry G

Amazing scenery, friendly staff. Very well laid out facility and so clean. Everyone that visits Rotorua should visit this place.

2. The Farm Tour

171 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua 3015, New Zealand 3D Trick Art Gallery
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5.0 based on 7 reviews

Ultimate Kiwi Farm Experience !! A Trip to Rotorua, New Zealand is not complete without a traditional farm experience. The Farm Tour is an hour long guided tour, travelling through 35 acres of farm environment on a covered trailer.  You will love interacting with all the friendly animals - make sure you have your camera ready to snap a selfie! There are so many different varieties, you will be spoiled for choice see alpacas, lamas ,goats, sheep, cattle, deer, pigs, chickens, rabbits, ostriches and more.  Your friendly guide will provide information, and food to feed the animals.  This is a must do Kiwi experience !

Inclusions: Free parking

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By emlangers

So, I think I appreciate this place more NOW with the collection of incredible photos we amassed. They really do look 3D! We went during school holidays and it was busy. A bit too much waiting for a 'scene' to be free so you could take your photo. I'd recommend getting there during off-peak times. And follow the advice for taking photos. I'm taking one dot off because I think they could make a more fun experience by managing the traffic flow. But my 8 year old adores all the photos we now have. Worth the trip, but go when it's 'quiet'.

3. Mt Tarawera Fly-Drive Volcanic Experience

Volcanic Air, City Lakefront Lakefront Drive, Ohinemutu, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand Kaitiaki Adventures
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Mt Tarawera – Fly / Drive Combo This unique experience allows visitors to travel to Mt Tarawera with Volcanic Air, taking in the scenic wonders of the area from the air, before landing on Mt Tarawera for your guided crater walk experience. This flight includes the stunning scenery of Lakes Okareka, Tarawera and Rotomahana, as well as being able to see on clear days to White Island and Mt Ruapehu landing you on Mt Tarawera, Infamous for its eruption on June 10th, 1886, Mt Tarawera created the world’s youngest geothermal valley of Waimangu, at the same destroying the legendary Pink and White Terraces. You will be fully guided on a walking experience which encompasses the unique landscape and history of the area. With unmatched scenic vistas and 360 panoramic views this experience is ideal for all ages and includes an optional run in to the heart of the volcanic crater. This activity includes transportation to and from accommodation.

Inclusions: Heli Flight to The Summit of Mount Tarawera!, Hike around Majestic Mount Tarawera!, Professional Kiwi Driver/guide, Free Drop off to Vehicle or Hotel

Exclusions: Snacks

Reviewed By Cclovestt

The 7 metre waterfall drop was awesome Absolutely priceless We had dan the man as our travel guide He was really funny and we felt very safe

4. Whakarewarewa Village Guided Tour

17 Tryon Street, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand Whakarewarewa - The Living Maori Village
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Experience the warmth of our Legacy Guided Tours through New Zealand’s iconic Maori village. Our village guides are direct descendants of the early Māori guides who’s legacy shaped tourism in New Zealand for generations. Their insights, knowledge and legendary hospitality (manaakitanga) adds depth and richness to the experience you’ll have at Whakarewarewa.

Inclusions: Entry Ticket

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Reviewed By stut254

The self-guided walk was pretty good but overall we had a sour taste due to the false advertising. The web page for the self-guided walk states that you'll "find yourself face-to-face with Nature, Hot Spring Lakes, Mud Pools, Geysers and native manuka bushlands". It also specifically mentions the Pohutu Geyser and has a photo of it. But it turns out the Pohutu Geyser is not included in that tour. Only the more expensive guided tour. So we left disappointed and annoyed. It was the attraction we wanted to see most of all. We noticed a number of people with the yellow self-guided stickers were coming back from the geyser path. They obviously decided to go anyway. But we're the type of people who stick to the rules, even when the rules are wrong. The rest of the attractions were ok and we enjoyed it enough. If they fix up the website then we would've been much happier, or paid more to see the geyser.

5. Mornin Lakes Tour

1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand Real Rotorua
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5.0 based on 32 reviews

Morning Lakes Tour – 8.30am to 12.30pm daily ($85) By far the best lakes tour in Rotorua, small group, locations and value. With 18 lakes in the Rotorua area our Lake Morning tour provides a driver-guided exploration of some of the highlights of New Zealand’s Lake District: Hamurana springs, Okere falls, lake Rotoiti, the Blue and Green lakes and lake Tarawera. Explore our favourite scenic spots and natural springs on foot. Take photographs at your leisure and learn about Rotorua’s colourful culture and history from our knowledgeable and friendly guide. • Highlights • Small group, relaxed atmosphere. •  Informative, outgoing driver-guide. • Breath-taking scenery. • No queues or entrances fees. • Half day tour.

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By 845larissae

This was an amazing experience, stephen was very knowledgeable and we learnt a lot, the sights he showed us were spectacular which brought home the miracle of nature. The best hot chocolate we have ever tasted and shortbread was a great ending to a magical night

6. Velocity Valley Rotorua 4 Ride Adrenaline Overload Package

1335 Paradise Valley Road, Ngongotahā Valley 3072, New Zealand Velocity Valley
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

Velocity Valley has unique New Zealand adventures located within one defined area. There is no need to travel from one location to another as we have all the adrenaline right here. This 4 Ride Combo allows you to experience all of our unique activities... Share the fear with friends and dive head first through the air on the Swoop at 130km/h. Experience our furiously fast Agrojet, New Zealand’s fastest jet sprint boat on a purpose-built water course at 100km/h. Defy Gravity and live out your dream of flying on New Zealand’s only outdoor flying wind tunnel – Freefall Xtreme. Lastly and most famously the world’s only human powered monorail racetrack, embrace the race with Shweeb Racer. Our adrenaline park is affordable and not to be missed. We cater for all ages, weights, heights and adventure abilities. Let us add to your worldly adventure travels, experience unique New Zealand activities with Velocity Valley.

Inclusions: Flexible 4 Ride Combo Pass

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Reviewed By Simon D

We paid for 8 rides (249$) and did the freefall extreme, the swoop, agrojet and schweeb. The swoop was the best and great value for $40 each for a single ride. For $50 we got 3 videos and about 25 photos. Start with the easier ones and build up. Since my wife wanted to get the swoop over and done with early, the agrojet seemed a bit tame after it, but it's still a must do in adrenaline junky NZ. The kids loved the agrojet too. On the other side (and I have to be a bit picky to find some of the negatives) there was one person being trained and the girl who gave the instructions for the freefall felt very new, and they also lost one of my videos (which of course I didn't pay for), but otherwise we would come back (especially to try the V-force).

7. Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour

1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand Real Rotorua
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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

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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. Ziplining Forest Experience - The Ultimate Canopy Tour Rotorua

Rotorua Canopy Tours, 147 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua 3015, New Zealand Rotorua Canopy Tours
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5.0 based on 1,008 reviews

See New Zealand’s one and only cliff walk, built around a volcanic rock, floating staircases and a 400m tandem Zip-line that you can race your loved ones down…just to name a few! An amazing engineering feat that allows the exploration of an ancient indigenous forest! You will be taken to another world, full of ancient giants and lifeforms you can’t see anywhere else in the world! Since we opened in 2012 we have been protecting this special place and when you come along, you will be too! A portion of your entry goes straight back to our conservation project to help us continue to rescue and look after this magic place. We take photos for you and they are FREE after your tour via an email link.You are welcome to take as many videos and photos as you like too – you’ll be wanting to share this experience with everyone!!

Inclusions: Safety gear included, Amazing Kiwi guides, Shuttles included, Complementary photos, Snacks, All Fees and Taxes, Wet weather and warm gear (if needed)

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Reviewed By Jamie_ratlidge

Such a cool tour and so much fun! The different types a zip lines keep it interesting and different every time! You get to race people down and see some amazing views at the same time! Our tour guides Luke and Tenaya were so friendly and funny! They definitely made the experience that much better! I would absolutely recommend the ultimate tour to anyone and everyone!

9. Rotorua Rafting - Kaituna River White Water Rafting

761 State Highway 33, Okere Falls 3074, New Zealand Rotorua Rafting
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5.0 based on 854 reviews

Spend three adrenaline-crammed hours white water rafting down the Kaituna River on this tour from Rotorua. Start at a spot where wild waters meet subtropical rainforests and canyons engraved in the earth. Raft past beautiful cascading waterfalls, including the stunning Tutea Falls, and even take the opportunity to do some adventurous cliff diving. This tour is good for novice and expert rafters.

Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), Professional guide, Equipment is provided for use: wetsuit, booties, helmet, buoyancy aids, and additional cold weather apparel, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Swimwear and Towel

Reviewed By KarenP5195

Had so much fun today with Jack and crew. Loved the opportunity to swim a rapid too. It was challenging, fun and thrilling all at the same time !!

10. Ziplining Forest Adventure - The Original Canopy Tour Rotorua

Rotorua Canopy Tours, 147 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua 3015, New Zealand Rotorua Canopy Tours
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5.0 based on 2,384 reviews

Nowhere else in the world can you soar through an untouched New Zealand forest, stand on ancient giants and become a part of a conservation success story all in one! Since James and Andrew opened our doors in 2012, we have been working hard to preserve one of New Zealand’s most unique and untouched indigenous forests. We created this experience to transport you into a Jurassic world, showcasing New Zealand’s unique plants and wildlife (you may even get to feed one of our birds). You help this project, your entry contributes back to our conservation efforts to save this ancient world. Thank you for your support! You will be part of a small group (<10) with two of our knowledgeable kiwi guides who will delight you, making sure you safely enjoy every moment. Ask as many questions as you'd like and capture the moments with pictures and videos (although we have free photos of your experience for you after the tour). There’s good reason we are award winners – come and see for yourself!

Inclusions: Safety equipment, Two professional guides, Hotel pickup and drop-off (if needed), Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Photos available for download, Wet weather clothing and warmer garments

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By Nana3650

I had the most amazing experience yesterday with Natalie and Nui who guided the group through the beautiful forest. Nothing was left to chance , everything was explained and I felt very safe. The course is spectacular, the zip lines were fabulous. The trip from start to finish was a blast!

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