Sitting on the shores of Rotoruaake Rotorua, Rotorua is one of New Zealands top tourist venues. Rotorua is situated in the middle of the Taupo Volcanic Zone and is built over a geothermal hot spot which gives it a reputation of smelling like eggs. The Smell is in fact the distinctive sulphur which is escaping into the Rotorua air. The popularity of Rotorua is based on the fact that if offers something for every traveller, whether your wanting to experience adventurous adrenaline sports or simply relax in the plethora of natural mud bath’s and geothermal pools. Rotorua is located in the heart of the North Island of New Zealand, in the Bay of Plenty region. Situated just 2 ½ hours drive from Auckland there really is no excuse not to visit this area.
Rotorua is rich in Maori History, and is the heartland of Maori culture. You can see wood carvers at work in the Maori arts and crafts institute or visit some traditional Maori buildings. Rotorua was initially settled by the Maori of the Te Arawa iwi tribe and was a prominent site for some of the battles during the 1860 New Zealand wars. It really became a tourist town when the potential surrounding the natural spa’s was fully utilised and is now arguably the home of tourisms in New Zealand. The region surrounding Rotorua is one of natural beauty and is home to 15 lakes which can all be explored by tourists. These lakes are not only all fishable but also offer a host of other sporting and leisure opportunities. Roturua is a very clean city and prides itself on maintaining its parks and gardens and has been a regular recipient of the Most beaurtiful cty award.
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Top Things to do
Helicopter Rides and Volcanoes
This is your chance to see everything Rotorua has to offer from the sky. Your Helicopter ride will let you spot marine life from the air, and you will have the option of landing on a couple of islands. If you decide to land on an island you will get the chance to trek up to the volcanic crater. Your ride will give you views over lakes, forests and volcanic fault line and if your very lucky you may be able to glimpse dolphins in the seas below.
Waitomo Caves
The Waitomo caves are a great way to spend a day in Rotorua. Black water rafting involves wearing some wetsuits, a helmet and having a rubber ring. You will descend 30 metres below ground level to float through pitch dark caves with only a guide and glow worms for company! The Caves are truly stunning and you will be able to take in beautiful columns and underground waterfalls. Lasting a couple of hours you will float along and occasionally have to negotiate some rapids and waterfall jumps.
Rotorua Zorbing
Zorbing is great fun for all the family and will give everyone who tries it a great adrenaline rush. You will slip, slide and spin down a pre prepared course in a specially designed and harnessed globe. The ride can be over quite quick and be fairly expensive but it is well worth the ride. It is best to get the Rotorua Zorb centre early as queue’s can be fairly long during peak times.
Tamaki Maori Village
The Maori village is a great way to fully appreciate and understand the Maori Culture. The experience begins with a journey back in time and will tell the stories, history and protocols of Maori tradition. Upon entry you will be given a traditional welcome ceremony, including the sound of ancient Maori instruments and the activities of the people of days gone by. At the heart of this village, the meeting house, Rangiatea culture group offer a special glimpse of many of the traditions, performance, songs and history of the Maori people.