What is so special about Rotorua?
Rotorua really does have it all –geothermal wonders, rich Māori culture, relaxing spas, and outdoor adventures that cater to every kind of traveller. Whether you’re looking to unwind in a natural hot spring, immerse yourself in the history of New Zealand, or explore forest trails and volcanic landscapes, Rotorua lets you do it all at your own pace.
Travelling by motorhome gives you the freedom to plan your travel itinerary around what you love most. Fancy a day of relaxation? Park up near one of Rotorua’s world-class spas or natural thermal pools. Looking for a romantic escape? Enjoy a sunset soak or a lakeside dinner. If cultural experiences are more your style, you can spend time learning about local history and traditions at one of the area’s incredible cultural attractions. And for outdoor enthusiasts, there’s no shortage of beautiful walks, mountain biking tracks, and lakes to explore.
Rotorua is a place to linger, not rush. And with a maui motorhome hire, you can take your time at your favourite spots and discover the magic of this extraordinary region in a way that’s completely your own.
How many days should I spend in Rotorua?
At less than three hours’ drive from Britz’s Auckland branch, Rotorua is an easy addition to your New Zealand travel itinerary. But how many days should you set aside? That really depends on what you want to experience.
If you're keen to hit the highlights, two to three days might suffice. This gives you enough time to explore the famous geothermal parks, enjoy a cultural performance, and perhaps soak in a natural hot spring.
If you have more time, we recommend a longer stay of five to seven days to allow you to fully immerse yourself in everything Rotorua has to offer. The beauty of a motorhome hire is the flexibility it offers – stay longer if you find a spot you love or explore more of the surrounding area. Rotorua’s variety means you’ll never run out of things to discover, no matter how long you choose to stay.
Explore a unique geothermal wonderland
Rotorua’s geothermal wonders are like stepping into another world – where the ground bubbles, steams, and even shoots water high into the air. One of the highlights is Te Puia, home to the incredible Pōhutu Geyser, which erupts multiple times a day and can reach up to 30 metres. You’ll also find bubbling mud pools and steaming vents, all set against a cultural backdrop where you can learn about traditional Māori arts and crafts.
Another standout spot is Hell’s Gate, famous for its dramatic boiling mud pools and steaming cliffs. It’s also home to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest hot waterfall. And the best part? You can actually soak in the mud baths or relax in a sulphur spa, which is the ultimate way to wind down after a day of exploring.
For something truly colourful, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a Rotorua must-visit. From the bubbling Champagne Pool with its bright orange edges to the impressive Lady Knox Geyser’s daily eruptions, every corner of this park feels like a natural work of art. The mineral-stained landscapes are just as surreal as they sound – perfect for some jaw-dropping photos.
With a motorhome hire, you can take your time visiting each of these geothermal gems. Stay as long as you like, soak up the atmosphere and experience Rotorua’s otherworldly landscapes in your own good time.
Immerse yourself in Māori culture
Rotorua is rich in Māori culture, offering visitors an incredible opportunity to connect with the traditions, stories, and heritage of New Zealand’s indigenous people.
At Mitai Māori Village, you can experience the awe of warriors paddling a traditional waka (canoe) and enjoy captivating cultural performances that bring ancient stories to life. The highlight? A delicious hāngī feast, slow-cooked using traditional underground methods.
For a deeper dive, Te Pā Tū (formerly Tāmaki Māori Village) provides an unforgettable evening surrounded by native forest. You’ll explore a recreated pre-European village, hear powerful storytelling, and enjoy a meal that celebrates the flavours of Māori cuisine.
Another Rotorua must-visit is Whakarewarewa – The Living Māori Village, where geothermal activity is part of daily life. Here, you can see how the locals use natural steam vents to cook food, warm their homes, and create an entirely self-sufficient way of living. Cultural performances and guided tours offer insights into the traditions and history of the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Enjoy outdoor adventures with a relaxing twist
Rotorua is the perfect blend of excitement and ease, especially for those who enjoy a little adventure balanced with downtime. From gentle forest walks to thrilling rides, there’s something to suit every energy level – and all with the added bonus of stunning natural scenery.
Start with the Redwoods Treewalk, a peaceful yet awe-inspiring experience that takes you along suspended bridges high among the towering redwoods. During the day, you can take in the beauty of the forest, while in the evening, soft lighting transforms the walk into a magical escape. It’s an ideal way to enjoy nature without feeling rushed.
For a bit more action, Rotorua is renowned for its mountain biking. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just keen to try something new, the Whakarewarewa Forest offers a variety of trails. You can take a leisurely ride along a flat track or challenge yourself with a more adventurous route, all while soaking in the fresh air and picturesque views.
For something that ticks the boxes for everyone, head to Skyline Rotorua and enjoy the luge. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to experience the outdoors, with tracks that wind gently down the mountainside. When you’re ready to slow things down, hop on the gondola for a relaxing ride back to the top, where you can enjoy a coffee or glass of wine with panoramic views of Rotorua.
Be wowed by beautiful lakes and scenic beauty
Rotorua’s lakes are nothing short of spectacular, offering a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with nature. At the heart of it all is Lake Rotorua, the largest and most iconic of the region’s lakes. Its calm waters are perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, and the surrounding walking tracks let you enjoy its beauty from every angle.
Just a short drive away, you’ll find the Blue and Green Lakes (Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokākahi). These neighbouring lakes are famous for their striking colours – one a vivid turquoise blue and the other a deep green. Whether you’re picnicking by the shore or exploring the area on foot, the serene setting feels worlds away from the everyday.
For a dose of adventure paired with stunning scenery, visit Lake Tarawera. This lake is surrounded by lush forests and overlooked by Mount Tarawera, making it a favourite spot for fishing, hiking, and even natural hot springs. It’s an ideal destination for those who want to combine relaxation with a bit of outdoor exploration.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Where to stay in Rotorua
Rotorua offers a variety of great places to park up your motorhome, but here are two top picks that combine comfort with easy access to the region’s highlights.
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. With hot thermal pools, spacious powered sites, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a great base for your Rotorua adventures. Plus, it’s conveniently located close to the city centre and popular attractions like Te Puia and the Redwoods.
If you’re keen to make the most of lakeside walks and activities, Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park is the place to be. Located opposite the Blue Lake this holiday park is about 10 minutes drive from the city centre and nice and handy to the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest. It’s ideal for families or anyone who loves being surrounded by nature.
TOP TIP: Check out our guide to everything you need to know about New Zealand campgrounds.
Getting to Rotorua with maui
The road trip to Rotorua is all part of the adventure, and with a maui motorhome, it’s as relaxing and enjoyable as the destination itself. Start your trip by picking up your premium campervan hire in Auckland, where you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable and stress-free drive. From there, head south on State Highway 1 before connecting to State Highway 5, a scenic route that brings you to Rotorua in less than three hours.
Why not make the journey even more memorable by adding a few stops along the way? Take a detour to Hobbiton, where you can wander the fascinating movie set of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, or enjoy the tranquillity of Hamilton Gardens, a stunning collection of themed landscapes perfect for a picnic break.
For those planning a broader itinerary, Rotorua sits on the Thermal Explorer Highway, a route packed with geothermal wonders, charming towns, and unique attractions. With a maui campervan, the journey is yours to shape, offering the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and adventure.
Ready to explore Rotorua? What are you waiting for?
Rotorua is full of experiences that are as diverse as they are memorable. With a maui campervan, you can explore it all in comfort, with the freedom to set your own schedule and stay where the moment takes you.
Ready to start your Rotorua getaway? Book your maui campervan today.