Rotorua is a place to create memories that you’ll be talking about for years to come
Travelling with your family is exciting and loads of fun – especially when the best attractions, cafés, restaurants and free things to do are all within easy access (think: less time for backseat feuds!).
Feed the animals and your love for adventure
Who doesn’t love to stop and snuggle actual live giant bunnies on a mini golf course? Or feed furry alpaca, sheep and other farm animals at Rotorua Heritage Farm, or visit the small-animal enclosure at aMAZEme (also a great place to lose the kids for a while!)?
If adventure is at the top of your list, roll downhill in a giant inflatable ZORB, race each other on Luges at Skyline Rotorua, and much more.
Get out into nature
Geothermal parks always leave the kids in awe over the steam, bubbling mud, erupting geysers and colourful lakes that look like they’re straight out of a Dr Seuss book. Several hot pools have family zones for a bit of fun. Whakarewarewa Forest (aka “The Redwoods”) as well 14 of our 18 lakes are free to visit year-round.
Rainy day activities
If the weather isn’t cooperating, Motion Entertainment has your back, offering ten-pin bowling, mini golf, trampoline park, laser tag, escape rooms, Chipmunks Playland, and electronic games galore.
The 3D Trick Art Gallery and a WWII amphibious duck vehicle tour are also on offer to keep everyone entertained.
The National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa
Family Fun, Central
The whole family will love the Kiwi Hatchery! It’s the only purpose-built kiwi conservation centre in the world that’s open to the public, and is New Zealand’s only open-to-view kiwi hatchery and rearing facility.
Adventure Games Rotorua
Family Fun, Central
Adventure Games Rotorua gets your team out and about, working together to solve an exciting mystery. You’ll love the challenge of solving the puzzles and clues, at the same time learning something about local history, culture and nature. Developed by Escapade – NZ's best rated escape room business.
Whakarewarewa Forest and Redwoods Walking Trails
Family Fun, South
The Whakarewarewa Forest or Redwoods walking trails all start at the Redwoods i-SITE, where you can pick up a map before heading to explore the forest walks.
Geyser By Night – Te Puia Light Trails
Family Fun, Central
When darkness falls, the true love story of the city's geothermal wonderland comes to life.
Steaming Cliffs Kayak at Lake Rotomahana
Family Fun, South
Explore the amazing scenery of Lake Rotomahana on this spectacular guided kayaking tour.
Lake Tikitapu
Family Fun, East
Lake Tikitapu, affectionately known as Blue Lake, is a local favourite and well known to regular visitors to Rotorua.
Hui E! Kai E
Family Fun, South
Tamaki Māori Village offers a new day time experience where you get hands on with food and story.
Horse Trekking Lake Okareka
Family Fun, East
Horse trek through 500 acres of native bush and 1,500 acres of working sheep and cattle farm with stunning views of Lake Okareka, Lake Tarawera and Mount Tarawera.
Action Bug - Rangitāiki with Riverbug.NZ
Family Fun, South
Try something truly new! This Action Bug tour mixes a Riverbug with generous portions of whitewater in a breathtaking gorge on the Rangitāiki River between Rotorua and Whakatāne. This is an unforgettable experience that's unique to the Bay of Plenty.
Lakeland Princess Trout Fishing Charters
Family Fun, Central
Lakeland Princess Trout Fishing Charters offers trout fishing adventures, ipicnic and catch your own lunch cruises on picturesque lakes Rotorua and Rotoiti.
Fish & Game Eastern Region
Family Fun, Central
Fish & Game Eastern Region manages the trout fishery of the region including the world-famous Rotorua lakes.