Things to See and Do in Rotorua, the Egg City

Are you curious about what awaits you in New Zealand's most aromatic (and not exactly fragrant) city? In this guide, we delve into the best things to see and do in Rotorua, a destination that promises unique experiences and unforgettable memories. Buckle up your nose, and let’s explore!

Rotorua, often referred to as the city that smells like eggs, was our next stop. We had been warned about its distinctive aroma, but nothing could prepare us for the whiff of boiled eggs that greeted us as we approached the city. It was an involuntary reaction to close all the car windows!

We exchanged glances and realized we had indeed arrived in the land of sulfur smells. However, it's this very scent that makes Rotorua an unmissable destination in New Zealand. The source of this odor lies in its geological origins; Rotorua is built atop a massive volcanic caldera. This unique geological setting creates a landscape rich in geothermal activity, where steam vents and hot springs abound.

Within the area, you’ll find a plethora of natural hot spring businesses, spas, and mud baths. Some are simple facilities with a few buildings and thermal pools, while others are expansive geothermal parks that charge an entrance fee, like the renowned Wai-O-Tapu, which we visited later. Don’t overlook the free gems, such as the Kuirau Park, where you can wander through various geothermal pools and steaming vents. It's a fun outing, though be cautious—many of the fumaroles are fenced off to prevent accidents!

Speaking of fun, we dipped our toes into the hot springs at the end of the park. What a delight!

Rotorua also boasts the second-largest lake in New Zealand, Lake Rotorua, following Lake Taupo. There’s a lovely park with stunning views of the lake, where we spent some time watching the numerous black swans while observing the flocks of tourists from Japan, Korea, and China enjoying the promenade.

Exciting Activities to Experience in Rotorua

Here are some more exciting activities to consider during your visit to Rotorua and its surroundings:

1. Visit the Māori village of Tamaki to immerse yourself in the rich culture of New Zealand’s indigenous people.
2. Take a ride on the Skyline Rotorua gondola to reach the summit of Mount Ngongotaha for breathtaking views (though not quite as stunning as those in Queenstown, which set a high bar). Tickets cost around $34.
3. Stroll through Government Gardens, beautifully maintained grounds featuring the unique Tudor-style building that houses the Rotorua Museum.
4. Use Rotorua as a base for adventure sports; options include everything from white-water rafting to skydiving, depending on your thrill-seeking preferences!
5. While we didn’t go, the Redwoods Treewalk looks amazing, especially if you want to feel like a little person walking among giant sequoias.
6. Enjoy a pint at the historic pub, Pig & Whistle.

Yet, when we think of Rotorua, it's not just the smell that lingers in our memories, but also the wonderful couple who welcomed us into their home during our stay. Traveling in a van grants you plenty of freedom, yes, but nothing beats a warm shower and a proper bed. When we learned that our friends from Un Cambio de Aires had couch-surfed (without prior plans!) with this lovely couple, we jumped at the chance and sent a request. Without hesitation, they opened their doors to us, and we shared some truly special moments together, alongside their chickens, sheep, and horses.

On our way to Rotorua, we stumbled upon something quirky: Kiwi360, a giant kiwi-shaped sign amidst kiwi fields, conveniently located next to a hostel for seasonal workers. It made us ponder the business model: is it the kiwi harvesting or the mandatory lodging for workers? We also passed by the Okere Waterfalls, which, while not particularly impressive, left us with a sense of awe—after all, in New Zealand, one quickly gets accustomed to breathtaking beauty.

Next on our itinerary was the Wai-O-Tapu park, which Lety had been eager to visit. Spoiler alert: it was absolutely amazing!

Essential Information for Your Visit

On the road to the airport, you’ll find several gas stations with competitive prices—about 10 to 15 cents cheaper than the rest of New Zealand. The city’s geothermal park is free to enter, although it doesn't showcase the vibrant colors found in Wai-O-Tapu. It’s a solid alternative if you’re looking to save some money. However, if your budget allows, there are plenty of paid attractions nearby that are well worth the visit.

Have you discovered more things to see and do in Rotorua? We'd love to hear your recommendations!

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