Anne's Guidebook
Sightseeing
Ohinemutu
See natural thermal activity for free. Unfortunately our favourite ‘steamy bridge’ is currently blocked off but there is plenty of thermal activity to see and a morning market on Saturday.
59 locals recommend
Kuirau Park
Ranolf StreetSee natural thermal activity for free. Unfortunately our favourite ‘steamy bridge’ is currently blocked off but there is plenty of thermal activity to see and a morning market on Saturday.
Lakefront walkway accessed from the eastern end of the lakefront or from the walkway by the Polynesian Pools
9 locals recommend
Sulphur Point
Hatupatu DriveLakefront walkway accessed from the eastern end of the lakefront or from the walkway by the Polynesian Pools
The Redwood Forest has many trails, some which lead further into the Whakarewarewa Forest beyond. The short walks are sign-posted but you may need a map from the visitor centre for the longer walks.
117 locals recommend
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
The Redwood Forest has many trails, some which lead further into the Whakarewarewa Forest beyond. The short walks are sign-posted but you may need a map from the visitor centre for the longer walks.
Adventure
The Waipa Mountain bike car park, with its outdoor cafe and other amenities, is the access point for many trails to ride or walk. You can also access trails from other points including a newer hub on Tarawera Road, close to the Lake Okareka turn off.
31 locals recommend
Mountain Bike Rotorua
Waipa State Mill RoadThe Waipa Mountain bike car park, with its outdoor cafe and other amenities, is the access point for many trails to ride or walk. You can also access trails from other points including a newer hub on Tarawera Road, close to the Lake Okareka turn off.
Food scene
Third Place Café Rotorua
35 Lake RdLocal cafe with an iconic view from the car park
Maharaja Indian Takeaway
50 Koutu RdLocal takeaways for quick, convenient and delicious Indian food
Capers is a Rotorua institution. A licensed cafe with great food and service, open from 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week
47 locals recommend
Capers Cafe + Store
1181 Eruera StCapers is a Rotorua institution. A licensed cafe with great food and service, open from 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week
Themed rooms, quiz nights, bar and snacks plus costume hire! Worth a visit to see Jeff and Debbie’s stunning handiwork.
Level 13 Theme Rooms and Bar
1141 Eruera StThemed rooms, quiz nights, bar and snacks plus costume hire! Worth a visit to see Jeff and Debbie’s stunning handiwork.
Hot pools
Great spot to relax in a hot tub amongst the trees or opt for cider and snacks while you soak your feet in a mini tub on the spacious decked areas outside.
40 locals recommend
Secret Spot Hot Tubs Rotorua
13/33 Waipa State Mill RdGreat spot to relax in a hot tub amongst the trees or opt for cider and snacks while you soak your feet in a mini tub on the spacious decked areas outside.
A little further out of town but a great selection of outdoor hot pools with cafe.
66 locals recommend
Waikite Valley Thermal Pools
648 Waikite Valley RdA little further out of town but a great selection of outdoor hot pools with cafe.