From mountain biking to mineral mud baths, Rotorua offers a unique blend of geothermal wonders, adrenaline adventures, authentic Māori culture and world-class cuisine, all in one unforgettable destination. Choose from a variety of family-friendly Rotorua resorts and boutique hotels–or keep it simple with a tour package–to create a bucket-list getaway that includes scenic volcanic landscapes, luxury spa retreats and much more.
Experience our Rotorua tour packages
Visit Rotorua: get started
Located on New Zealand’s central North Island, Rotorua is a geothermal and cultural wonderland brimming with natural beauty, adventure and rich Māori heritage. Explore Wai‑O‑Tapu Thermal Wonderland, where the otherworldly Champagne Pool and erupting geysers paint a vivid geothermal scene. At Te Puia, witness the powerful Pōhutu Geyser, traditional carving schools, kiwi birds and cultural performances. Nature lovers can wander beneath towering redwoods in Whakarewarewa Forest, or experience the glowing Redwoods Treewalk at night. For panoramic thrills, head to Skyline Rotorua—ride a gondola up and luge, zipline, or Skyswing back down, with wine tastings up top.
Delve deeper into volcanic landscapes at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, ending with a serene boat ride on steaming Lake Rotomahana. Adventure seekers can tackle Kaituna River’s 7-metre Tutea Falls—the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall. Families will love Blue Lake’s watersports and forest trails, as well as hands-on encounters at the Agrodome Farm and National Kiwi Hatchery. Cultural immersion continues at Mitai Māori Village, offering traditional welcomes, performances, and food. For wildlife enthusiasts, Wingspan delivers captivating falconry demos and conservation insight.
Rotorua travel guide
Destination facts
Language
English and Māori
When to visit
For pleasant weather and fewer crowds, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are best.
What to bring back
A jar of Manuka honey, a mineral-rich mud mask and locally made Māori carvings.
What to eat
Hāngī, slow-cooked meat and root vegetables in an underground earth oven using heated rocks and steam, geothermal-cooked corn boiled in natural hot springs, or classic Kiwi favourites like Cantebury lamb and fruit pavlova.
Fun fact
Rotorua is located within the Rotorua Caldera, a massive volcanic crater formed by an eruption thousands of years ago, which is the source of its geothermal activity.
Important info
For more information on all necessary travel documents and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.
