Not one, but two long holiday weekends are just around the corner – perfect for planning a family getaway to Rotorua!
Here’s a guide to help you pack in as much as possible on your three-day family itinerary.
Day 1

Give yourself at least a couple hours at any of these spots as you’ll have trouble peeling the kids away from all the cool things.

From here, you could head to the city centre to grab some lunch before heading to your pre-booked Tarawera & Lakes Eco-Tour with Rotorua Duck Tours (pictured above). This is your chance to see our beautiful region from a unique perspective – aboard an amphibious WWII vehicle! Duck Tours’ guides keep everyone laughing while exploring some of the spectacular lake scenery and sharing our rich history. This two-hour tour on the back of a “duck” is a must-do.
By now, it might be time to refuel again so head to Eat Streat where nearly a dozen restaurants offer something for even the pickiest eaters. Kids love the board games sitting around at Our House, keeping them occupied until their food arrives.

Day 2

Pack your swim gear for ZORB and get ready to roll down the side of the mountain while inside a giant inflatable ball (pictured above and at top). In these cooler months, you’ll appreciate the lovely splash of warm water added to your ZORB to keep you sloshing around as you careen down the mountain. Up to three people can ride together, and you have four tracks to choose from. Or do them all!

Before heading back down the mountain, feed hungry tummies at Market Kitchen Café where you’ll find everything from gourmet pies and bakery items, to pizza, fish and chips, deli selections, ice cream and more. A barista is on hand too if you need a caffeine fix to keep up with the kids.

Wrap up your day with a sunset tour to see magical glow worms in their natural habitats. Real Rotorua offers a two- to three-hour walking tour starting at 7.30pm, or you can opt to explore via three-hour Twilight Kayak Glow Worm Tour with Paddle Board Rotorua at 5pm.
Day 3
If everyone’s energy is still going strong today and you’ve got a few hours available before heading home, there are still amazing experiences not to miss.
If you’re up for something a bit more relaxed for the adults where the kids can burn off some energy, head to aMAZEme and tell them there’s a reward for the one who can get to the middle of the maze first. Bringing a picnic lunch is welcomed, and there are lawn games, McGregor’s Garden and a small-animal petting area too.

Finding accommodation
To find the perfect place to stay in Rotorua, we recommend booking in advance when possible and through our i-SITE team’s expert and free booking services. Whether you’re looking for a five-star hotel, luxury lodge, B&B, holiday home or holiday park, they'll help you find the perfect place to match your budget and taste. Many are in or within a short walk of the city centre, but if you’d like to escape to the country, there are also stunning lake and countryside options too.The team is also the only booking agent in New Zealand to offer a 100% money-back guarantee that your accommodation will be exactly as they promise – no questions asked!