Need a quiet space to unwind? A secret hideaway from the restless kids? How about a little spot of nature or a picnic-perfect park?
Lots of public places and spaces are easily accessible in Rotorua, and most are free. From the recently renovated (and caffeinated!) Te Aka Mauri Rotorua Library, to Sulphur Bay Wildlife Refuge, to many of our 18 lakes. Don’t forget our most-loved Whakarewarewa Forest, the geothermal Kuirau Park in the heart of town, and the rolling, tree-lined hills of Centennial Park. Such perfect antidotes if you’ve been on the go.
The listings below will provide you with some great ideas and many won’t cost a thing!
Lake Rotoiti
Public Places & Spaces
Lake Rotoiti is one of the three largest lakes in the Rotorua region. Surrounded by lush native bush, it also features glow worm caves and a secluded hot pool complex.
Government Gardens
Public Places & Spaces
Government Gardens is a beautiful public park situated along the edge of Lake Rotorua and just minutes from the city centre.
Neil Hunt Park
Public Places & Spaces
Located 5 minutes drive from central Rotorua, Neil Hunt Park serves the local communities sport's and recreational needs.
Rotorua Library Te Aka Mauri
Public Places & Spaces
Come relax with your favorite book or learn something new. There's something for everyone at the local Rotorua Library.
Mt Kakaramea (Rainbow Mountain) Summit Track
Public Places & Spaces
A 2.5km walk or mountain bike ride to the top of Mt Kakaramea rewards you with breathtaking 360° views.
Kaharoa Kōkako Track
Public Places & Spaces, North
The Kaharoa Kōkako Track offers a great opportunity to hear the enchanting dawn chorus of New Zealand's native birds, including the kōkako. If you’re really lucky, you may even spot a kōkako or two high up in the canopy above.
Kuirau Park
Public Places & Spaces
Check out the natural boiling, bubbling and steaming geothermal action throughout Kuirau Park, New Zealand’s only free geothermal public park!
Lake Rerewhakaaitu
Public Places & Spaces, South
Camping, picnicking, swimming and boating are all popular recreational activities at Lake Rerewhakaaitu Recreational Reserve.
Rotorua Museum: Outside the Walls Historical Government Gardens Tours
Public Places & Spaces
Discover Rotorua's rich culture, volatile landscape and legendary figures in this must-do FREE tour around the famous Rotorua Museum and Government Gardens.
Sulphur Bay Wildlife Refuge
Public Places & Spaces
Explore an amazing geothermal area where threatened bird populations make their home.
Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods) Mountain Biking
Public Places & Spaces, South
Whakarewarewa Forest, also known as the Redwoods, is a mecca for mountain bikers, with more than 180km of trails winding their way through native and exotic forest.
Lake Tarawera
Public Places & Spaces
One of the largest lakes in New Zealand, the picturesque Lake Tarawera (meaning ‘burnt spear’), is a firm favourite with boaties, and famous for the size and condition of its rainbow trout.