Top Rotorua Outdoor Activities
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Though most commonly associated with steaming sulfur pools, bubbling mud baths, and Maori heritage, Rotorua is also an adventure hub. From easygoing activities to extreme, high-adrenaline excursions, here are a few of the outdoor adventures on offer in this geothermal region of New Zealand’s North Island.
Water Activities
Rotorua is a watery playground, with more than a dozen lakes—collectively known as the Lakes of Rotorua—and several rivers within the region. The white-water rapids of the Rangitaiki, Wairoa, and Kaituna Rivers promise plenty of thrills for rafters. The truly brave can even take the plunge over the 21-foot (7-meter) Tutea Falls in a raft. Alternatively, take an exhilarating spin on a jet boat through the Waikato River’s Tutukau Gorge, or speed across Lake Rotorua to Mokoia Island, a wildlife sanctuary. For gentler water-based adventures, try kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or even a steamboat cruise.
Cave Exploring
Just a short journey west of Rotorua lies Waitomo, an area known for its network of underground caves, some of which are accessible to the public. Tour Ruakuri Cave to encounter strange limestone formations and subterranean waterfalls, or Aranui Cave, where thousands of stalactites hang from the ceiling. Don’t miss the Glowworm Caves, where thousands of glowworms twinkle like stars in the dark cavern.
High-Flying Fun
Zipline along cables suspended above the forest canopy, or take to the skies above Lake Rotorua during a parasailing experience that sees you reach heights of up to 400 feet (120 meters). For the ultimate aerial thrill, try a tandem skydive from 15,000 feet (4,572 meters), free-falling for up to 60 seconds before releasing the parachute and floating down to the ground.
Land Adventures
For adrenaline-fueled thrills at ground-level, Rotorua offers plenty of options. Go off-road during a 4WD safari, either steering yourself along forest and farmland tracks or sitting back and letting a professional driver take the wheel. Alternatively, slow down the pace with a horseback ride through the countryside or roll down hills in a Zorb or OGO (giant inflatable balls).
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Kaituna White-Water Rafting Adventure
Promoted
395
Challenge yourself against the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall and enjoy outdoor adventure in New Zealand on this 3.5-hour Kaituna white-water rafting adventure from Rotorua. Hop into your raft in the Kahikitea Forest and take to the waves with a guide. During your tour, navigate steep canyons through native forest, and test your nerve over 14 challenging rapids. Splash, paddle and roll through New Zealand’s spectacular scenery and make the most of this North Island outdoor adventure. A full briefing and all safety equipment are included.
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From
$77.82
From
$77.82

Ziplining Forest Adventure - The Original Canopy Tour Rotorua
2807
This Rotorua zipline tour takes you soaring through a centuries-old forest canopy as you switch between the six zipline cables suspended 72 feet (22 meters) above the ground. Get a bird’s-eye view as two expert guides suit you up with safety equipment and teach you about the forest environment. Bonus: you can later download photos taken of you during your treetops adventure. Round-trip hotel transport is included on this small-group tour, limited to 10 people.
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From
$103.98
From
$103.98

Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour
201
Even on the cloudiest night, the New Zealand glowworm lights up the darkness in a lucky few spots across the country. This short evening bush-walk departing from Rotorua involves a short drive, a walk through picturesque native bush and the chance to see these increasingly rare creatures. Tack this tour onto the end of a thrilling day in Rotorua instead of hiring a car for an almost two-hour drive west to visit the exceedingly popular Waitomo Caves. This is one of the easiest ways to experience Aotearoa’s unique glowworm habitats.
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From
$51.66
From
$51.66

Wai-O-Tapu & Waimangu Full Day Tour
8
Be amazed by the variety of geothermal landscapes you experience in a full day of touring two of the Rotorua area’s highlights, Wai-O-Tapu and Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Learn about the geology and science of the area from your driver-guide, then tour independently at your own pace through the geothermal parks. Admire spurting geysers, volcanic craters, bubbling mud pools, colored terraces, and more.
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From
$93.47
From
$93.47

Zorb Inflatable Ball Ride from Mount Ngongotaha in New Zealand
165
While in Rotorua, take a wild and wacky ride in a ZORB ball. You’ll love ‘orbing’ downhill as you slide around inside an inflatable ball. Choose from three different runs — a straight slope, a multipoint harness or a curvy water ride — and get instruction before enjoying twists and turns. Document the latest thrill with a provided hand-held go pro, and relax between rides in the on-site hot tubs.
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From
$26.16
From
$26.16

Ziplining Forest Experience - The Ultimate Canopy Tour Rotorua
1388
Soar through the trees and experience New Zealand’s ancient native forest like never before on this incredible must-do adventure – Voted TripAdvisor’s #11 Adventure Experience in the world! You'll soar across 1200m of ziplines, experience New Zealand’s one and only cliff walk 50m above the forest floor, incredible swing bridges, controlled descent and an impressive 400m long tandem zipline so you can share the experience of our longest zipline together!
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From
$130.13
From
$130.13

Mitai Maori Village Cultural Experience in Rotorua
231
Get an authentic introduction to Maori culture with an evening at the Mitai Maori Village of Rotorua. See warriors in traditional dress paddle in an ancient canoe, and be captivated by the displays of weaponry. You'll watch 'haka' and poi dances and view glowworms in their natural habitat. This 3-hour experience includes round-trip hotel transport and a traditional 'hangi' feast with your admission ticket.
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From
$80.43
From
$80.43

Mt. Tarawera Volcano Scenic Floatplane Tour from Rotorua
19
Soar above the otherworldly volcanic landscapes of Mt. Tarawera on seaplane flight from Rotorua. The expert pilot-guide navigates over the Steaming Cliffs and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, then returns via the Blue and Green Lakes and the bubbling geysers of Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. Experience the thrill of a water take-off and landing on Rotorua Lake, with a convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
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From
$195.53
From
$195.53

Volcanic Valley Self Guided Walking and Hiking at Waimangu
110
Explore the geothermal landscape of Rotorua at your own pace on this self-guided Waimangu hiking tour. Follow winding hiking trails through Waimangu — the world’s youngest geothermal system — and marvel at the scenery you find. Admire unique geothermal features including Frying Pan Lake, Inferno Crater Lake and Lake Rotomahana, and enjoy breathtaking views over hot springs and steam vents throughout the forest and grasslands. Along the way, gain insight into the geothermal activity from your guide sheet and watch for the native plant and animal life for which Waimangu is famous. Enjoy a much needed rest and take advantage of the shuttle bus to return you to the start at the end of your hike.
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From
$28.77
From
$28.77

Rotorua Duck Boat Guided City and Lakes Tour
261
Discover Rotorua on a 1.5-hour duck tour. This sightseeing adventure takes you aboard a World War II amphibious vehicle — able to travel on land and water. Start with a city tour past Government Gardens, the Blue Baths and more before splashing down into Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Okareka. Enjoy family fun along the way with a provided duck caller, and listen to live commentary about Rotorua’s history and local landmarks.
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From
$55.58
From
$55.58

Kaituna River White Water Rafting from Rotorua
286
This Kaituna River rafting adventure in the Okere Falls Scenic Reserve promises plenty of thrills! With an expert guide at the helm, you’ll paddle through Class 5 white-water rapids of the Kaituna River, including an awesome 21-foot (7-meter) drop down Tutea Falls, the worlds highest commercially rafted waterfall. Accessible to adventurous beginners, this 3-hour tour includes a safety briefing with paddling instruction, all necessary equipment and round-trip hotel transport from Rotorua.
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From
$84.36
From
$84.36

Triple Pass Combo
8
Get away from the tourist crowds and explore the Bay of Plenty in a variety of ways with this combo ticket. Drive a four-wheel-drive buggy through dense native bush, ride a horse through the sprawling countryside, and shoot a few clay pigeons – all in an action-packed morning or afternoon. Ride down centuries-old forestry trails to isolated, hard-to-access locations with spectacular views of Lake Rotorua, Mokoia Island and the rest of the region.
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From
$182.45
From
$182.45

Rotorua Rafting - Kaituna River White Water Rafting
950
Go on an adrenaline-filled rafting excursion down the Kaituna River during this 3-hour adventure tour from Rotorua. Here, white-water rapids flow past a subtropical rainforest lining a deep canyon. See stunning waterfalls, including rafting over Tutea Falls, and jump at the opportunity for exhilarating cliff diving. Tour operates winter and summer. Wetsuit, booties and helmet are provided. No experience necessary!
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From
$63.72
From
$63.72

Kaituna White-Water Rafting Adventure
395
Challenge yourself against the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall and enjoy outdoor adventure in New Zealand on this 3.5-hour Kaituna white-water rafting adventure from Rotorua. Hop into your raft in the Kahikitea Forest and take to the waves with a guide. During your tour, navigate steep canyons through native forest, and test your nerve over 14 challenging rapids. Splash, paddle and roll through New Zealand’s spectacular scenery and make the most of this North Island outdoor adventure. A full briefing and all safety equipment are included.
…More
From
$77.82
From
$77.82

Twilight Kayak Glow worm Tour
284
Adventurous travelers will love this glowworm-spotting tour with a difference. As the sun gets lower in the sky, paddle in a kayak on Lake Karapiro and along the Pokaiwhenua Stream. You’ll see beautiful native plants and bird life, and rock formations that have been naturally carved over centuries. Once the light disappears, you’ll see thousands of glowworms lighting your way. This tour is a fun way to experience some of New Zealand’s best natural attractions.
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From
$81.74
From
$81.74

Mt Tarawera Volcanic Guided Hike Experience
140
Experience the majesty of Mt Tarawera and gain insight into New Zealand’s rich geology on this 4-hour hike from Rotorua. Travel by off-road 4x4 vehicle into the North Island wilderness with a guide. Follow winding hiking trails from the base of Mt Tarawera up to the crater’s edge, and learn all about the mighty volcano’s 1886 eruption. From your vantage point near the crater, admire panoramic views over the geothermal valley of Waimangu. This exciting hiking tour is suited to adventurers of all ages.
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From
$120.98
From
$120.98

Tarawera and Rotorua Lakes Eco Tour by Boat with Guide
112
Explore the Rotorua lakes district and learn about its history on a 2-hour tour duck boat cruise from Rotorua. Travel on land and by water in the amphibious World War II vehicle, visiting four lakes including Lake Tarawera, located at the foot of Mt Tarawera. Hear about the devastating 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera and other aspects of local history on this family-friendly tour.
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From
$68.66
From
$68.66

Half-Day Self-Guided Mountain Bike Journey through Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest
103
Located just five minutes from downtown Rotorua, the Whakarewarewa Forest features 100 miles (160 km) of twisting mountain bike trails. Book your bike hire for a half-day ride through this redwood terrain, considered one of the region’s top trail networks. You’ll find a variety of paths for all abilities on this self-guided bike tour.
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From
$32.87
From
$32.87

Guided Horse Trekking from Rotorua
101
Explore the New Zealand countryside on horseback on this 1-hour horse trekking tour from Rotorua. Climb onto your horse and head into the foothills of Mt Ngongotaha with a guide. Follow winding trails over working farmland and through native bush, and admire beautiful views over Lake Rotorua. Stop along the way to capture the views on camera, then descend back through the green paddocks to base. This horse trek is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, with horses and ponies to match all riding abilities.
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From
$49.04
From
$49.04

Rotorua Stand-Up Paddle Board Glow Worm Tour
84
Steer a stand-up paddleboard through a spectacular display of glow worms on a twilight tour of Lake Rotorua glow worm caves and rock formations. Paddling Lake Rotorua at dusk means the perfect light to see the glow worms at their sparkling, shining best, and you’ll watch the first stars appear over the lake as you return to shore.
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From
$85.01
From
$85.01

4x4 Self Drive Yamaha Experience
78
Take a private two-seater buggy to one of the highest lookouts in the Rotorua region on this short forest adventure. Instead of hiking up the hills and working up a sweat, enjoy a wild ride to the top behind the wheel of a four-wheel-drive buggy. Your certified guide will drive you half the way there, but you can drive the rest of the way, navigating rugged, hundred-year-old forestry tracks cut into the dense Bay of Plenty forest.
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From
$101.36
From
$101.36

Rotorua Glow Worm Kayaking Tour
54
As the sun sets over the Bay of Plenty, take a kayak into the hidden glow worm caves around the Rotorua Caves on this remarkable after-dark tour. Instead of trying to find your own way out to the caves, take a kayak across the lakes with a guide by your side who can help you navigate the tunnels and keep you on course. Marvel at the clusters of glowing bugs and the way they light up these underground rock formations.
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From
$85.01
From
$85.01

White-Water Sledging Adventure
53
Take a scenic excursion through the New Zealand wilderness on this 3-hour white-water sledging adventure from Rotorua. Listen as a guide explains the challenges ahead, then — with your helmet and life vest clipped on — take to the Okere River on your floating sledge. Twist and turn through swirling river rapids, float gracefully along relaxing flats, and admire views over the mighty Kahikatea Forest. This family-friendly tour is suitable for thrill-seekers of all ages and skill levels.
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From
$84.36
From
$84.36

Katoa Jet Boat tour on Lake Rotorua
45
Blast around Lake Rotorua on a jet boat tour! An expert driver spins you around on an adrenaline-infused adventure and delivers you at top-speed to all of the iconic landmarks. Experience 30 action-packed minutes of family-friendly fun as you hear live narration on the history of the area. Select from multiple departure times; spray jackets included.
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From
$55.58
From
$55.58

Off-Road 4WD Buggy Adventure from Rotorua
40
Ride along dirt tracks and trails on a 30-minute or 1-hour 4WD adventure in Rotorua, and experience New Zealand off-roading. You’ll explore rolling farmland and scenic native forests with an professional guide who will drive you to a viewpoint overlooking Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island. This small-group 4WD tour is limited to five participants per buggy.
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From
$45.12
From
$45.12
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