Rotorua & Taupo
Rotorua and Taupo are two of the North Island’s most iconic destinations, packed with natural wonders, adrenaline adventures and rich Maori culture.
Rotorua is world famous for its geothermal activity where you can see steaming mud pools, boiling springs and geysers make the landscape feel otherworldly. We absolutely love visiting Rotorua and never get sick of seeing the incredible landscape here - it's like no other in New Zealand. Beyond the geothermal parks, the region offers incredible walks through native forests, mountain biking trails and some of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand (there are so many gorgeous ones here!). Rotorua is also a cultural hub, with authentic Maori experiences, hangi (food cooked underground) and local performances that bring the history and traditions of Aotearoa to life. I love all the Maori designs around the town with pous (carved poles), Maraes and carved frames all over the town.
An hour's drive away from Rotorua, Taupo sits on the edge of New Zealand’s largest lake and is surrounded by stunning scenery. Lake Taupo is perfect for swimming, fishing or taking a scenic cruise to spot the Huka Falls up close. For walkers and hikers, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing — one of the country’s most famous day hikes — is easily accessible from Taupo, offering volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, and incredible views. Adventure seekers will also find skydiving, jet boating, and mountain biking, while those after slower- paced experiences can enjoy spa retreats, relaxing by the lakefront or exploring small local towns.
For travellers, both Rotorua and Taupo are best explored by car to give you the freedom to visit geothermal parks, waterfalls and lakes at your own pace. Whether you’re chasing thrills, cultural experiences or simply soaking up the natural beauty, Rotorua and Taupo deliver an unforgettable taste of the North Island and you won't be disappointed!
After spending almost 3 years exploring the South Island, we're finally in the North Island to explore it and show you all the best spots.
Rotorua is world famous for its geothermal activity where you can see steaming mud pools, boiling springs and geysers make the landscape feel otherworldly. We absolutely love visiting Rotorua and never get sick of seeing the incredible landscape here - it's like no other in New Zealand. Beyond the geothermal parks, the region offers incredible walks through native forests, mountain biking trails and some of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand (there are so many gorgeous ones here!). Rotorua is also a cultural hub, with authentic Maori experiences, hangi (food cooked underground) and local performances that bring the history and traditions of Aotearoa to life. I love all the Maori designs around the town with pous (carved poles), Maraes and carved frames all over the town.
An hour's drive away from Rotorua, Taupo sits on the edge of New Zealand’s largest lake and is surrounded by stunning scenery. Lake Taupo is perfect for swimming, fishing or taking a scenic cruise to spot the Huka Falls up close. For walkers and hikers, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing — one of the country’s most famous day hikes — is easily accessible from Taupo, offering volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, and incredible views. Adventure seekers will also find skydiving, jet boating, and mountain biking, while those after slower- paced experiences can enjoy spa retreats, relaxing by the lakefront or exploring small local towns.
For travellers, both Rotorua and Taupo are best explored by car to give you the freedom to visit geothermal parks, waterfalls and lakes at your own pace. Whether you’re chasing thrills, cultural experiences or simply soaking up the natural beauty, Rotorua and Taupo deliver an unforgettable taste of the North Island and you won't be disappointed!
After spending almost 3 years exploring the South Island, we're finally in the North Island to explore it and show you all the best spots.
PARADISE VALLEY SPRINGS ROTORUA: FISH, ANIMALS & BUSH WALKS
Paradise Valley is a a mix of native and farm animals and even lions! It's a peaceful place to explore and see wildlife up close.
Blog coming soon! 
ROTORUA’S GEOTHERMAL WONDERS EXPLAINED
Rotorua’s geothermal landscape is unique in New Zealand. From erupting geysers to bubbling mud pools, this guide explains it all.
Blog coming soon! 
OKERE FALLS TRACK: ONE OF ROTORUA’S BEST WALKS
This walk packs in a lot for such a short track. Waterfalls, lush forest, caves and a very powerful river views all in one easy walk.
Blog coming soon! |
TOP THINGS TO DO IN ROTORUA FROM RIDING THE ZORB TO WATCHING GEYSERS
Rotorua is a cool adventure town, with everything from zorbing and luge to geothermal parks and 3D trick art.
Blog coming soon! 
THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM ROTORUA: WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO SEE
From lakes and waterfalls to coastal towns and volcanic landscapes, Rotorua is perfectly placed for day trips which are worth doing.
Blog coming soon! 
EXPLORING OHINEMUTU VILLAGE: ROTORUA’S LIVING MAORI VILLAGE
Explore a living Maori village surrounded by geothermal activity, and admire the stunning architecture of the buildings.
Blog coming soon! |
A GUIDE TO ROTORUA’S GEOTHERMAL PARKS: WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU VISIT?
Rotorua has 5 main geothermal parks -
this guide breaks down each park so you can choose the one that suits your time & budget. Blog coming soon! 
DISCOVER KUIRAU PARK: A FREE GEOTHERMAL PARK IN ROTORUA
Kuirau Park has bubbling mud pools, steaming vents and geothermal foot baths which are all completely free!
Blog coming soon! 
5 SPOTS IN ROTORUA TO SEE GEOTHERMAL ACTIVITY FOR FREE
Steaming ground, boiling mud and sulphur spots you can visit without paying a cent. These are 5 free places to see it all.
Blog coming soon! |
WHAT TO DO IN ROTORUA WITH KIDS
Geysers, playgrounds, wildlife, cultural shows and adrenaline activities - Rotorua is the perfect location for families. Blog coming soon! |
BENEATH THE GIANTS: WALKING THROUGH THE REDWOOD FOREST
Walk beneath giant redwood trees over 100 years old and experience the beauty of this very peaceful forest.
Blog coming soon! |
WHY HUKA FALLS IS A MUST SEE IN TAUPO
Thundering water and blue rapids with epic viewpoints. The Huka Falls is one of Taupo's most iconic attractions and a must see! Blog coming soon! |
BOILING MUD & STEAMING CRATERS: VISITING WAIOTAPU WONDERLAND
Neon coloured lakes and rising steam vents create one of New Zealand’s most surreal walks. Waiotapu is a Rotorua must see!
Blog coming soon! |
10 SPOTS TO SEE BEAUTIFUL MAORI CARVINGS IN ROTORUA
Rotorua is one of the best places in NZ to see beautiful Maori carvings and these 10 spots won't disappoint.
Blog coming soon! |
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