Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland perfect for families. It’s a vibrant city nestled in the Bay of Plenty region on New Zealand’s North Island. It’s renowned for its geothermal wonders, rich Maori heritage, and exciting outdoor pursuits, making it an ideal destination on your New Zealand family holiday. Discover top things to do, kid-friendly hotels, best times to visit, and more in this ultimate guide to Rotorua with kids!
Why Visit Rotorua With Kids
Here’s why you should consider Rotorua for your next family vacation:
- Unique geothermal wonders: Witness geysers erupt, bubbling mud pools, and colorful thermal lakes, captivating young minds.
- Interactive experiences: Engage in thrilling Maori cultural performances, learn about native wildlife, and embark on exciting nature adventures.
- Family-friendly activities: Enjoy thrilling rides, explore glowworm caves, soak in natural hot springs, and embark on scenic gondola rides.
- Educational opportunities: Immerse your children in Maori traditions, geothermal science, and the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.
- Stunning natural beauty: Rotorua boasts breathtaking landscapes, including volcanic craters, lush forests, and serene lakes, providing picturesque backdrops.
Things to Do in Rotorua With Kids
- Skyline Rotorua Gondola Ride: Take a scenic gondola ride up Mount Ngongotaha for panoramic views of the city, Lake Rotorua, and the surrounding countryside. At the top, families can enjoy thrilling luge rides, mountain biking, and scenic walks.
- Tamaki Maori Village: Embark on a cultural journey at the Tamaki Maori Village, where families can experience the rich traditions of Maori culture through engaging performances, interactive demonstrations, and a traditional hangi feast.
- Agrodome: Entertain the kids with interactive farm shows at the Agrodome, where they can learn about New Zealand’s iconic sheep and cattle breeds, watch sheep shearing demonstrations, and even feed baby animals.
- Whakarewarewa Thermal Village: Explore this living Maori village, home to the famous Pohutu Geyser and fascinating geothermal features. Families can witness the geyser’s powerful eruptions, learn about traditional Maori customs, and enjoy cultural performances.
- Redwoods Treewalk: Experience the magical Redwoods Treewalk, a series of suspended bridges among towering redwood trees. Families can take a gentle stroll along the walkway during the day or enjoy an enchanting nighttime light show.
Best Places to Visit in Rotorua
- Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: Explore this surreal landscape of bubbling mud pools, colorful hot springs, and unique geothermal formations. Highlights include the Champagne Pool, Artist’s Palette, and Devil’s Bath.
- Te Puia: Discover the wonders of Te Puia, home to the Pohutu Geyser, New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, and immersive cultural experiences like the Maori cultural performance and guided tours.
- Rotorua Museum: Delve into Rotorua’s history, culture, and geology at the Rotorua Museum, housed in an iconic Tudor-style building. The museum’s exhibitions and displays provide educational insights for the whole family.
- Lake Rotorua: Enjoy a peaceful day by the lake, where families can indulge in water activities like fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The lake’s scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a popular spot for relaxation.
- Government Gardens: Stroll through the Government Gardens, a beautifully landscaped park with stunning floral displays, historic buildings, and plenty of space for picnics and family outings.
Where to Stay in Rotorua
- Family-friendly hotels: Consider hotels with amenities like swimming pools, playgrounds, and kids’ clubs, such as the Regent of Rotorua, the Millennium Hotel Rotorua, or the Sudima Rotorua.
- Self-contained apartments: Opt for spacious apartments offering kitchens and laundry facilities for a more homey feel, like the Peppers on Fenton Rotorua or the Quest Rotorua Central.
- Holiday parks: Enjoy camping or cabin accommodation amidst nature, often with shared facilities and activities, like the Rotorua Top 10 Holiday Park or the Ngongotaha Holiday Park.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Rotorua
- Millennium Hotel Rotorua: A luxury hotel with spacious family rooms, a heated pool, and a geothermal spa. The hotel’s central location makes it convenient for exploring Rotorua’s attractions.
- Holiday Inn Rotorua: A family-friendly hotel with a heated pool, kids’ play area, and family suites. The hotel’s friendly atmosphere and attentive staff ensure a comfortable stay for families.
- Rotorua TOP 10 Holiday Park: Offers a variety of accommodation options, including self-contained cabins and powered campervan sites. The holiday park’s amenities, like the playground and communal kitchen, cater to families.
- Ramada Resort by Wyndham Rotorua Marama: Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua, the resort offers family-friendly apartments with lake views and a heated pool. Families can enjoy water activities and scenic walks along the lakefront.
- Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel: A charming boutique hotel with family suites, a heated pool, and a central location. The hotel’s elegant decor and personalized service create a welcoming atmosphere for families.
Best Time to Visit Rotorua
Rotorua is a year-round destination, each season offering unique experiences for families. The best time to visit depends on your family’s preferences and interests:
- Spring (September to November): Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Spring is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring Rotorua’s natural beauty.
- Summer (December to February): Experience warm temperatures and longer days, perfect for water activities, like swimming and kayaking, and outdoor adventures.
- Autumn (March to May): Witness the changing colors of the foliage as the weather cools down. Autumn is a great time for hiking, biking, and visiting geothermal parks.
- Winter (June to August): Embrace the cozy atmosphere and enjoy winter activities like soaking in geothermal hot pools and attending cultural performances.
How Long to Stay in Rotorua
The ideal duration for a family trip to Rotorua is around 3 to 4 days, giving you enough time to explore the city’s attractions, enjoy outdoor activities, and immerse yourselves in Maori culture.
- Weekend trip (2-3 days): Ideal for a quick getaway, allowing you to visit key attractions and experience the geothermal wonders.
- 4-5 days: Provides more time to explore further, delve deeper into Maori culture, and enjoy outdoor activities.
- A week or more: Perfect for families seeking a relaxed pace, allowing for leisurely exploration, side trips, and soaking in the local atmosphere.
Rotorua Family Itinerary
Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1:
- Morning: Explore Te Puia, witnessing the Pohutu Geyser erupt and learning about Maori culture.
- Afternoon: Take a boat ride on Lake Rotorua, enjoying scenic views and wildlife spotting.
- Evening: Soak in the natural hot pools at Polynesian Spa, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration.
Day 2:
- Morning: Embark on a magical boat ride through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
- Afternoon: Visit Rainbow Springs Nature Park and experience the diverse wildlife.
- Evening: Enjoy a delicious hangi (traditional Maori earth oven meal) and cultural performance at Mitai Maori Village.
Day 3:
- Morning: Take a thrilling gondola ride and experience adrenaline-pumping activities at Skyline Rotorua.
- Afternoon: Explore the interactive exhibits and cultural performances at the Rotorua Museum.
- Evening: Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at Eat Streat, offering a variety of cuisines in a vibrant atmosphere.
Day 4 (Optional):
- Choose from various options based on interests:
- Hike to the top of Mount Tarawera for breathtaking views.
- Visit the Buried Village, a fascinating glimpse into a village buried by a volcanic eruption.
- Relax and enjoy the geothermal pools at Kuirau Park.
- Embark on a white-water rafting adventure on the Tarawera River.
Getting Around Rotorua
The best way to get around Rotorua is by car, as it provides flexibility and convenience for exploring the city and its surrounding attractions.
- Public transportation: Rotorua offers a reliable bus network, making it easy to get around the city.
- Rental car: Provides flexibility and independence, ideal for exploring further afield.
- Cycling: Rotorua has dedicated cycling paths and trails, offering a scenic way to get around.
- Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it a great way to explore the compact city center.
Rotorua is a fantastic destination for families with children, offering a perfect blend of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring geothermal wonders, learning about Maori culture, or embarking on thrilling activities, Rotorua promises an unforgettable vacation for the whole family.
