Rotorua overflows with activities for 2-3 days.
Geothermal sites:
Te Puia (1.5 km from centre, NZD 80-115) — emblematic site with Pohutu geyser, national Māori carving and weaving school, kiwi sanctuary. Allow 3-4 h.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland (30 min south, NZD 38) — the world's most colourful pools: Champagne Pool, Devil's Bath, Artist's Palette, Lady Knox Geyser (erupts at 10:15 precisely).
Hell's Gate (Tikitere, NZD 35-50) — geothermal springs with unique therapeutic mud bath.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley (30 min south, NZD 45) — the youngest volcanic valley in the world.
Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village (centre, NZD 45-65) — Māori village still inhabited.
Māori cultural evenings: Mitai Maori Village (most popular, NZD 130-160), Tamaki Maori Village (NZD 130-180), Te Pō at Te Puia (most authentic, NZD 130-180).
Natural hot springs: Polynesian Spa (NZD 40-90), Wai Ariki Hot Springs (new 2024, NZD 110-160), Waikite Valley Thermal Pools (NZD 40), Kerosene Creek (free natural hot river in forest).
Outdoor activities: Kaituna River rafting (NZD 130-160), Whakarewarewa Forest (Redwoods) mountain biking — one of the world's best mountain bike spots, zorbing/OGO (NZD 60-90), Skyline Rotorua (gondola + luge, NZD 52).
Day excursions: Hobbiton Movie Set (Matamata, 1 h, NZD 130) — the country's most-visited attraction.
Read also
- Auckland — La plus grande ville du pays, à 3h en voiture, porte d'entrée internationale.
- Île Nord — Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Hobbiton : la moitié peuplée et géothermique du pays.
- Nouvelle-Zélande — Guide complet du pays : 2 îles, formalités NZeTA, budget, meilleure période.