48 hours in Rotorua

There is nothing like getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With just 48 hours in the right place, you can find yourself reinvigorated and re-inspired.

With its distinctive sulphur scent, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland that is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Rotorua is a town rich in Maori culture & history while still offering fine dining, shopping and even the perfect activities for the most daring of adrenaline seekers.

Saturday
Experience the iconic Rotorua mudbath at the Hellsgate Geothermal Park. Walk throughout the park and take in the wonder of the bubbling mud pools and steaming, erupting geysers. Learn the rich history of the pools and their significance to the Maori people. Afterwards, indulge in bathing, beauty and healing therapies, including traditional Maori massage & sulphur spas.

Or, for a picturesque view while your pampered choose from one of Polynesian Spas 26 mineral hot pools overlooking the ancient forest framing Lake Rotorua.

If relaxation isn’t your idea of a good time, choose from a number of exhilarating activities.

Experience the beauty of New Zealand’s landscape with the thrill of zip-lining with Rotorua Canopy Tours. Your tour guide will take you through the lush forest canopy, with zip-lines, swing bridges, walking trails and platforms this is the New Zealand bush like you have never seen it before!

You’re spoiled for choice when looking for your next adventure, with bungee jumping, zorbing and lugeing all in & around the city.

If none of these sounds like quite the right way to unwind, why not spend the day fly fishing the rivers & lakes? With 15 fishable lakes & four species of trout in Rotorua, it’s the perfect way to forget any worries from home!

Finish your day in style by choosing from one of Rotorua’s many restaurants. For a fine dining experience that showcases pacific rim cuisine and indigenous herbs & spices, choose the award-winning Mokoia Restaurant. Relax with a glass of wine overlooking Lake Rotorua while you plan the next day’s adventures.

Sunday
If you are in the area and feel like a hit of caffeine and a bite to eat, why not check out Ciabatta Café & Bakery? One of the top rated cafes in Rotorua and a top spot for locals, the relaxed and friendly atmosphere coupled with good food will make you wish it was your local!

Steeped in culture & Maori hospitality, Rotorua offers unparalleled cultural experiences. Be welcomed to villages such as Mitai Village & Tamaki Village & watch stirring performances of singing & dancing.

Visit Te Puia, for the privilege of a tour throughout the Whakarewarewa geothermal valley by knowledgeable hosts who share their stories & the history of the valley. At the end of the trip tuck into a steamed basket of hangi for a different, yet delicious dining experience.

To end the weekend on a high, visit The Skyline Rotorua. Indulge at their Stratosphere Restaurant and take in the breath taking the view of the city while dining on their award-winning Wagyu Angus cross fillet steak. After dinner, prepare for a short walk & an amazing experience on a Stargazing tour with Skyline. Discover another world, using top of the line telescopes to view the Southern Cross, Milky Way and other galaxies.

As you head home from your weekend away, know that this is just one of many amazing, New Zealand towns on your doorstep for a 48-hour adventure.