Rotorua Highlights

Discover the local spots that make Rotorua unforgettable.

3d Trick Art Gallery – Rotorua
3dtrickart.co.nz/book-now

 

Think you’ve seen it all? Think again! Get ready to step into a world where reality bends, illusions rule, and YOU become part of the art. Welcome to New Zealand’s only 3D Trick Art Gallery — an experience like no other. Unleash your imagination. Capture the unbelievable. And walk away with the most unforgettable photos you’ve ever taken. Only at the 3D Trick Art Gallery — where you don’t just look at the art, you become it.

07 349 0920
info@3dtrickart.co.nz

Boasters Coffee House & Roastery
boasters.co.nz

 

Boasters is an urban coffee roastery with an in-house
cafe, serving espresso-style coffee with a wide selection of delicious cabinet food options. An inviting space to be shared with the Rotorua community, Boasters is a relaxed option for a convenient coffee to go, or a great place to sit and take a moment to let the day pass you by.

021 345 269
hello@boasters.co.nz

Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spas
hellsgate.co.nz

 

Located on the outskirts of Rotorua lies an awe-inspiring geothermal reserve, home to New Zealand’s only mud spa. While the bubbling pools of acidic water, sulphurous springs and steaming fumaroles are only made more dramatic as they billow into the cold air that’s not the only reason to visit this winter. As the sun sets, take the opportunity to soak under the stars in water heated by the earth below for a limited time only on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Juniper
juniperstore.co.nz

 

Juniper is a gift shop and working art and candle studio born from a love of making and growing beautiful things, and a drive to avoid the mass-produced and the mundane. Set in a 90-year-old building on the edge of the historic Ohinemutu Village, overlooking Lake Rotorua, they offer handcrafted candles, jewellery, lush plants, and thoughtfully curated New Zealand-made art – an inspiring stop for unique, meaningful finds.

07 262 7138
hello@juniperstore.co.nz

Kaitiaki Adventures
kaitiaki.co.nz

 

Walk lightly on one of Aotearoa’s most significant landscapes. The Mt Tarawera Volcanic Crater Experience blends conservation, culture, and adventure, guided by those who protect this sacred maunga. Discover powerful stories, fragile ecosystems, and breathtaking views while supporting kaitiakitanga in action. Travel with purpose. Walk with meaning.

0800 338 736
bookings@kaitiaki.co.nz

Te Puia
tepuia.com

 

This winter, Te Puia invites visitors to experience a curated collection of events that highlight kai, culture and the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. From April to August, the valley comes alive with seasonal experiences that blend tradition with creativity.

Lady Janes Ice Cream Parlour
Instagram: ladyjanesicecream

 

Take time out with family and friends to enjoy a sweet treat at Rotorua’s iconic Lady Janes Ice Cream Parlour. They have over 50 flavours of ice creams to choose from, including the Kiwi classic Hokey Pokey. There is something for everyone here, from the very popular Danish Waffle Cone, to fabulous sundaes, smoothies, Real Fruit Ice Cream, plus vegan options too! Great coffee also available.

Eat Streat, 1092 Tutanekai Street
07 347 9340

Lakeview Golf & Country Club
lakeviewgolf.co.nz

 

Discover Lakeview Golf and Country Club – a premier golfing destination overlooking stunning Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island. This par 71, 18-hole course offers free-draining fairways, native bush-lined gorges, and challenging greens. More than just golf, it’s an unforgettable experience in nature’s beauty. Relax in their brand-new clubhouse and soak up the views.

07 357 2341
info@lakeviewgolf.co.nz

Redwoods
treewalk.co.nz

There’s a reason locals keep returning to the Redwoods, Rotorua: it’s equal parts calm, wonder and pure ‘pinch-me’ Aotearoa. Start with the Redwoods Treewalk by day, a 700-metre elevated suspended bridge walk through the 125-year-old grove. Up here, you’ll spot silver ferns from above and feel that rare mix of thrill and stillness that only towering trees can deliver – an easy win for couples, families and anyone who prefers their adventure with a side of serenity. As dusk settles, book Redwoods Nightlights and watch the forest shift into something magical.

Lime Cafe
limecafe.co.nz

 

Bright and lively spot near Rotorua’s lakefront, offering an array of fresh flavours from their cabinet selections, specials board, and tempting breakfast and lunch menus. With communal tables and extensive outdoor seating basking in the summer sun, Lime Café creates a welcoming, friendly atmosphere perfect for any occasion.

07 350 2033
krishna@limecafe.co.nz

McLeods Booksellers
mcleodsbooks.co.nz

 

McLeods Booksellers is an independent business in the heart of Rotorua that’s 100% locally owned and operated. A bookshop since 1896, the shop still maintains its vintage charm with an eclectic range of books, making it known among loyal customers as a “dangerous destination” for the avid book lover! McLeods specialises in books, quality stationery and jigsaws.

07 348 5388
shop@mcleodsbooks.co.nz

On The Point
onthepoint.co.nz

 

Set on the tranquil, scenic shores of Lake Rotorua, On The Point is a boutique retreat that merges seclusion with a deep connection to the region. Less than 10 minutes from the city centre, the site strikes that rare balance: close enough to dip into Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, cultural experiences and adventure offerings, yet far enough removed to deliver genuine calm and relaxation.

214 Kawaha Point Road, Rotorua
info@onthepoint.co.nz | (07) 348 4868

Polynesian Spa
polynesianspa.co.nz

 

Polynesian Spa delivers a distinctive lakeside geothermal experience in Rotorua. Bathe in mineral-rich waters from two natural springs, with a choice of adults-only and family- friendly pools. Enhance your visit with spa therapies and wellness offerings, all supported by on-site dining and easy booking for a seamless, restorative escape.

07 348 1328
bookings@polynesianspa.co.nz

Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park
rotoruathermal.co.nz

 

A stone’s throw from 150km of world-class mountain biking trails, our park is the perfect base for your Rotorua adventure. Enjoy free hot pools, bike wash, storage, and a range of accommodation—from tent sites to luxury motel units. With communal kitchens, BBQs, seasonal pool, and more, set among lush gardens in Rotorua, the mountain biking mecca.

07 346 3140
info@rotoruathermal.co.nz

Millennium Hotel Rotorua
millenniumhotels.com

 

For nearly two centuries, manuhiri (visitors) have journeyed across the globe to experience Rotorua’s renowned healing waters. Today, Millennium Hotel Rotorua proudly continues this legacy, offering a range of in-house experiences designed to melt away everyday stresses and tensions. The Spa provides a sanctuary of relaxation. Guests can soak in the geothermally heated hot pools before indulging in a variety of full-body and facial treatments by a qualified beauty specialist. With a selection of herbal teas offered after treatments, guests are guaranteed to walk away feeling rested and rejuvenated. For those preferring to wine, dine and unwind, the hotel’s restaurant and lounge bar, Nikau and Zazu, feature fresh seasonally curated menus that cater to all tastebuds.

millennium.rotorua@millenniumhotels.co.nz

Te Pā Tū
te-pa-tu.com

 

Te Pā Tū delivers immersive, seasonal Māori cultural experiences guided by the maramataka (lunar calendar). Over 3.5 hours, visitors journey through performance, storytelling and kai hākari, including forest canapés and a three-course Māori-fusion feast. Tū Te Rā – Summer Harvest celebrates abundance, exploring themes of warfare and peace through powerful haka, ritual and shared connection.

07 349 2999
bookings@maoriculture.co.nz

Wingspan Bird of Prey Centre
wingspan.co.nz

 

Nestled in the hills of Paradise Valley lies a truly unexpected experience. Discover a conservation charity devoted to breeding, rehabilitating, researching, and celebrating New Zealand’s magnificent birds of prey. Watch raptors soar in breathtaking flight displays, witness ancient falconry techniques, or come face-to-face with one of these incredible birds during an intimate close encounter. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else – and one you won’t forget.

07 357 4469
info@wingspan.co.nz