An Introduction to Rotorua, New Zealand

[Heena Adwani]

 

One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Rotorua on New Zealand's North Island is surrounded by as many as 16 lakes. What it is renowned for, however, are the mud pools, geysers and the smoke snaking out of its ground. The city is based on top of an active volcanic zone and is enveloped in a weak sulphur smell. Nicknamed the Sulphur City, Rotorua is a heaven for vacationer – possessing just about every type of activity a tourist could ask for.  Yet for the people who wish to pull this off, I've summed up our Rotorua itinerary 6 days that will let you experience the true colours of the city beautifully! Gear up! 

There are entire parks and tours dedicated to adventure sports offering unique experiences like racing in a monorail or flying in a hovercraft. If that is not enough, Rotorua has parasailing, white water rafting, kayaking, mountain biking and dozens of trails for exploring.

For the history/culture buff in you, the city has plenty to offer, with various Maori villages, walks, heritage buildings like the Blue Baths and of course the enigmatic Buried Village of Tei Wairoa. Numerous museums and art galleries with intriguing and quality displays make this city a virtual tourist magnet and the Rotorua travel guides give an amazing insight into their culture and history.

Spas, mud pools and geothermal parks abound. Rich in volcanic ashes and minerals a day at the natural hot water springs is a feast for your mind and body. You can also relax in the mud baths as the mud cleans up all the built-up toxins from your skin and replenishes it.

The redwood forest is a short distance away, you can also participate in an eco-tour in Rotorua and explore the local wildlife. Or, go on a cruise on one of the many lakes surrounding Rotorua and stroll through the lovely and peaceful countryside.

A number of award-winning restaurants stand tall on its street, along with bars and cafés serving various cuisines and budgets. Another enjoyable quality of Rotorua are its people – outgoing yet having the charm and warmth of a small town, they are a pleasure to be around.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Rotorua is spring, which starts in September and lasts till November. That being said, the city enjoys a pleasant weather and sunny, clear days the whole year round. Temperatures do drop to single digits in winter, but thanks to hot springs and volcanic activity it rarely gets uncomfortably cold. Summers are warm with the temperature hovering around the 25 degree Celsius mark.

 

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Rotorua Bike Festival – With a 130-square-kilometre forest in its backyard and a very active biking community, Rotorua is the best place to have a bike festival. This festival, one of the biggest in the world, is spread over 10 days, with around 30 fun-filled events and is a true celebration of biking.

Saturday Morning Rotary Market – Held every Saturday at the Kuirau Park between 7 am and 1 pm, the event is extremely popular amongst the locals as well as tourists. It is a great place to sample the local produce, buy some unique souvenirs and art work, grab a bite of much-loved delicacies and mingle with the locals.

WHERE TO STAY 

LUXURY

Regal Palms  A five-star resort with spacious AC rooms located in a quiet and scenic location. Designed beautifully, with keeping the guest’s every need in mind, this Rotorua hotel also has an outdoor pool, tennis court, massage rooms and a well-stocked bar and is a perfect family accommodation.

Hamurana Lodge  Located close to the airport and some of the major attractions in Rotorua, this lodge is perfect for people wanting to make the most of their trip. The rooms have AC, ensuite bathrooms, massage services and complimentary breakfast for all guests.

MID RANGE

Chateau Tongariro Hotel  This elegant property located in the Tongariro National Park is an excellent place to unwind and relax. The well-maintained and clean rooms with ensuite bathrooms, complimentary tea/coffee and 24-hour room service for its guests it a delight to stay at.

Rose Court Motel  Centrally located and offering a spa in each room – this motel is perfect for those wanting a safe and clean retreat. A fully stocked kitchenette and hot breakfast served in your room also add to your comfort.

BUDGET

All Seasons Holiday Park Rotorua  Spacious and clean, this hotel is an ideal place for a family to spend some relaxing time together. A large playground, heated pool, camp kitchens and tent sites are other amenities provided.

YHA Rotorua  YHA’s are renowned worldwide for their clean rooms, bathrooms and well-stocked kitchens. The one in Rotorua is no exception and a stay over here is an absolutely pleasurable experience.

TRAVEL TIPS

Take note of the warning signs –even though things may look calm from above, superheated steam can erupt spontaneously causing burns and injury.

It is not recommended to dip your head in the natural pools. The water might be infected by bacteria or other microbes.

Be very careful while using the natural mud pools and hot water springs, as they can be boiling hot.

Occasionally the air does get mildly toxic, so it is a good idea to stick to well-ventilated places.

As far as possible do not carry valuables with you in isolated places, especially after dark.

 

Best Attractions To Explore In Rotorua

Buried Village of Tei Wairoa

Tei Waiora, once settled by Europeans and Maoris was destroyed by the eruption of Mt. Tarawera, taking with it the lives of over 120 people. It also obliterated the pink and white terraces – marble like terraces often called the eighth wonder of the world. The village was later excavated by the Smith family and visitors can view the ruins of houses, stores, hotels and even a flour mill. Also of interest is the Museum of Tai Wairoa, showcasing objects excavated from the site. If you are up for it, a steep, but short trek will give you a stunning view of the Wairere Falls.

 

Tamaki Maori Village

A step into this village is akin to stepping back in time – when the Maoris dominated the region and flourished with the wildlife. With traditional performances, feasts and ceremonies celebrated by the entire village, this attraction is more an experience you will remember for your entire life. Listen to the traditional Maori stories and songs, participate in their dance; watch the weapons that were used for hunting or simply the daily lives of the exotic Maoris; and finally devour a three-course Hangi meal cooked on hot rocks.


Hobbiton Movie Set

A delight to any fan of Lord of the Rings, this little tour is a perfect way to live the fantasy in real life. Parts of the movie were shot in this little piece of Kiwi farmland and the set stands today as a treasured memoir – complete with hobbit holes, Party Tree, Green Dragon Hill, double arched bridges and the alluring gardens. Utterly enticing, the set is also a must-see for those not into the movie or novel for its lovely charm and quirky architecture.

The Blue Baths

This art-deco building with a Spanish touch was once the most happening spot in Rotorua. A hangout of the rich and famous; it still stands tall and elegant evoking the glamour of yesteryears. It functions more like an entertainment centre now, with a museum, conference room, function rooms, and a tea room. The pool is still functional, and a dip in the ‘Liquid Lights’ is highly recommended, as the mineral-rich waters are said to have healing and rejuvenating qualities. The Blue Baths also host shows featuring dazzling costumes, enthralling songs and energetic dances.

You can best explore the city with Rotorua itineraries to take the perfect glimpse of the city to get the most memorable trip.

[Arthur Micheal]

I spent 10 days at Rotorua last summer with my friends at 7dollaressay reviews Rotorua was one of my favorite spots in North Island. Here are the best things to do in Rotorua. If I had to pick just one favorite, it would be the mountain biking through the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest was one of the highlights of my New Zealand Trip.