Top 21 Things to Do in Rotorua, New Zealand

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Explore the top 21 things to do in Rotorua, New Zealand. Discover geothermal parks, Māori culture, adventure activities, lakes, and vegetarian & vegan restaurants near each attraction.

Rotorua is one of New Zealand’s most unique destinations, internationally famous for its geothermal wonders, Māori culture, lakes, forests, and adventure activities. The scent of sulphur, steaming vents rising from the ground, bubbling mud pools, and powerful geysers create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the country. Beyond geothermal attractions, Rotorua offers rich cultural experiences, scenic walks, thrilling activities, and a welcoming food scene with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. This guide covers the top 21 things to do in Rotorua, with nearby plant-based dining recommendations for every experience.

1. Explore Te Puia – Geysers, Mud Pools & Māori Culture

Te Puia is Rotorua’s most famous geothermal and cultural attraction. Home to the spectacular Pōhutu Geyser, which can erupt up to 30 metres high, Te Puia also features boiling mud pools, steaming vents, and native bush landscapes. Visitors can explore the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, where traditional carving and weaving are actively taught and practiced. Guided tours provide deep insight into Māori history, customs, and connection to the land.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Atticus Finch Café (vegetarian options), Indian Star Rotorua (excellent vegetarian dishes), Eat Street restaurants with vegan-friendly menus.

2. Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Wai-O-Tapu is one of Rotorua’s most visually striking geothermal parks. Famous for the Champagne Pool, Artist’s Palette, and vivid mineral colours, this area feels like walking on another planet. Well-maintained walking tracks allow visitors to explore geothermal features safely while learning about volcanic activity through interpretive signage.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Picnic recommended – pick up vegan food from Abracadabra Café Rotorua or Indian vegetarian takeaway before visiting.

3. Experience Polynesian Spa – Geothermal Hot Pools

Polynesian Spa is world-renowned for its mineral-rich geothermal hot pools overlooking Lake Rotorua. Soaking in the naturally heated waters is both relaxing and therapeutic, helping to ease tired muscles after sightseeing or adventure activities. Private pools and lake-view bathing areas make this a must-do experience.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Abracadabra Café (vegan-friendly), Ali Baba’s Tunisian Cuisine (vegetarian options), Eat Street eateries.

4. Discover Whakarewarewa – The Living Māori Village

Whakarewarewa is a living Māori village where residents still use geothermal steam for cooking, bathing, and heating. Visitors can witness daily life, cultural performances, and traditional hangi preparation, all set among steaming vents and geysers. This experience offers an authentic and respectful introduction to Māori culture.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Indian Star Rotorua, Atticus Finch Café, plant-based meals along Fenton Street.

5. Walk or Bike the Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest

The Redwoods Forest is one of Rotorua’s most loved outdoor attractions. Towering Californian redwood trees, peaceful walking trails, and extensive mountain biking tracks make it suitable for all fitness levels. The forest is beautiful year-round and offers a calming contrast to Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
The Redwoods Treewalk Café (vegetarian snacks), Abracadabra Café nearby, local vegan-friendly cafés.

6. Try the Redwoods Treewalk (Day or Night)

The Redwoods Treewalk is a unique experience featuring suspended walkways and viewing platforms high among the forest canopy. At night, the forest is illuminated with lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. This attraction is family-friendly and accessible for most visitors.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Abracadabra Café, Indian vegetarian takeaways, Eat Street dining options.

7. Explore Lake Rotorua & Lakefront

Lake Rotorua sits at the heart of the city and offers scenic walking paths, birdlife, and sunset views. The lakefront area is ideal for a relaxed stroll, photography, or simply enjoying Rotorua’s natural setting.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Eat Street Rotorua – several restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan meals, including Italian, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisine.

8. Visit Kuirau Park – Free Geothermal Park

Kuirau Park is one of Rotorua’s best free attractions. Located close to the city centre, it features bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, geothermal foot pools, and walking paths. It’s an excellent place to see geothermal activity without an entry fee.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Indian Star, Abracadabra Café, local vegan-friendly bakeries.

9. Experience Māori Cultural Performance & Hangi Dinner

Rotorua is the best place in New Zealand to experience Māori cultural performances, including haka, poi dances, and storytelling. Many venues offer evening shows paired with traditional hangi meals. Vegetarian and vegan options are often available when requested in advance.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Vegetarian-friendly hangi options (pre-book), Eat Street plant-based meals before or after shows.

10. Go Zorbing – Rotorua’s Famous Adventure Activity

Rotorua is the birthplace of Zorbing, where you roll downhill inside a giant inflatable ball. It’s fun, unique, and suitable for all ages, making it a memorable experience for families and adventure lovers.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Café nearby or return to Rotorua CBD for vegan cafés like Abracadabra.

11. Try White Water Rafting on the Kaituna River

The Kaituna River offers world-class white water rafting, including the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world. This thrilling experience combines adrenaline with stunning native forest scenery.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Rotorua town cafés and Eat Street vegetarian-friendly restaurants.

12. Visit Lake Tarawera

Lake Tarawera is one of Rotorua’s most beautiful lakes, surrounded by forested hills and volcanic landscapes. It’s perfect for swimming, kayaking, picnicking, and photography. The lake feels peaceful and less crowded than central Rotorua.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Bring picnic food from Rotorua vegan cafés or Indian restaurants.

13. Explore Buried Village of Te Wairoa

This historic village tells the story of the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption, which buried the settlement under ash and mud. The museum and archaeological remains offer a fascinating look into New Zealand’s volcanic history.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Village café with vegetarian options, Rotorua town eateries.

14. Visit Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park

Hell’s Gate features boiling mud pools, geothermal waterfalls, and mineral-rich mud baths. The dramatic landscape and spa experiences make it a unique Rotorua attraction.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Return to Rotorua CBD for vegan-friendly dining options.

15. Take a Scenic Gondola Ride at Skyline Rotorua

The Skyline Gondola in Rotorua provides sweeping views over Lake Rotorua and the surrounding geothermal landscape. At the top, visitors can enjoy walking tracks, luge rides, and dining.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Skyline Restaurant vegetarian options, Rotorua CBD vegan cafés.

16. Enjoy Luge Rides at Skyline Rotorua

The luge tracks are fun for both kids and adults, offering thrilling downhill rides with scenic views. Multiple tracks cater to different skill levels.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Vegetarian meals at Skyline Café, Eat Street eateries after.

17. Visit Mount Tarawera (Guided Tour)

Mount Tarawera is an active volcano that dramatically reshaped the region. Guided tours allow visitors to safely explore the crater and learn about the eruption’s impact on Māori communities.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Bring food from Rotorua vegan cafés.

18. Explore Blue and Green Lakes

These twin lakes are popular for swimming, walking, and picnics. The clear water and forest surroundings make them ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Picnic with plant-based food from Rotorua town.

19. Visit Agrodome Farm Show

The Agrodome is a classic New Zealand farm experience showcasing sheep shearing, animals, and rural life. It’s entertaining and educational, especially for families.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Agrodome café vegetarian options, Rotorua town eateries.

20. Stroll Along Eat Street Rotorua

Eat Street is Rotorua’s main dining strip, lined with restaurants, bars, and cafés. It’s lively in the evenings and offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Abracadabra Café, Indian Star, Middle Eastern and Italian vegetarian dishes.

21. Take a Rotorua Day Tour

Rotorua is a popular stop on North Island itineraries and a gateway to destinations like Hobbiton, Taupō, and Waitomo Caves. Booking through My Holidays Diary Rotorua tours allows visitors to explore comfortably while maximising their time.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Rotorua CBD cafés before and after tours.