Don’t miss the chance to explore Rotorua’s stunning lakes, including the picturesque Lake Tarawera, the expansive Lake Rotoiti, the tranquil Lake Ōkareka, and the vibrant blue waters of Lake Tikitapu.
Discover the breath-taking beauty and thrilling adventures awaiting you in Rotorua, a destination renowned for its 18 magnificent lakes, three major rivers, and an abundance of ways to enjoy them – including at night.
By day, immerse yourself in a variety of water activities such as swimming, fishing, lakeside picnicking, stand-up paddle boarding, and other exciting water sports. Whether you’re setting sail with a boat, grabbing your floaties, or just looking to relax by the water, our beautiful lakes promise endless fun and relaxation.
For a truly unique experience, escape to one of Rotorua’s two secluded thermal hot water beaches – Hot Water Beach at Te Rātā Bay or Manupirua Springs Hot Pools at Lake Rotoiti – accessible only by water shuttles, water taxi, jet boat, floatplane, or a scenic hike along Tarawera Trail. Let the warm waters melt your worries away.
Thrill-seekers will find their paradise with exhilarating jet boat tours. Choose from a ride through a thrilling, man-made river course at Velocity Valley, or race across Lake Rotorua with Katoa Jet.
One of Rotorua’s world-famous adventures awaits adrenaline junkies. Kaituna River offers the opportunity to plunge over the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall with local whitewater rafting companies, or in a guided tandem kayak with New Zealand Whitewater Academy.
By night, venture out on a canoe with Waimarino Kayak Tours, or kayak or SUP with Paddle Board Rotorua tour across a serene lake to witness the magical glow worms illuminating the night.
Rotorua is a destination where natural beauty meets adventure, creating unforgettable memories for every visitor.
The Airstream Project
Lakes & Rivers, East
Forget camping in an Airstream – opt for an Airstream lookalike to take you on a lake cruise you’ll never forget.
Action Bug - Rangitāiki with Riverbug.NZ
Lakes & Rivers, 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.
New Zealand Whitewater Academy
Lakes & Rivers, East
New Zealand Whitewater Academy is a place of whitewater excellence, providing top-of-the-line whitewater workshops, courses and excursions.
Rotorua and Taupō Guided Fly Fishing
Lakes & Rivers, Central
Local fly fishing guide Ray Nelson of Rotorua and Taupō Guided Fly Fishing makes it his business to put people on memorable fishing action, and what’s more, he’s very good at it!
Lake Tikitapu
Lakes & Rivers, East
Lake Tikitapu, affectionately known as Blue Lake, is a local favourite and well known to regular visitors to Rotorua.
Lake Rerewhakaaitu
Lakes & Rivers, South
Camping, picnicking, swimming and boating are all popular recreational activities at Lake Rerewhakaaitu Recreational Reserve.
Paddle Board Rotorua
Lakes & Rivers
Paddle Board Rotorua is Rotorua's premium paddle boarding and kayak experience providers, well known for their paddle board and kayak glow worm tours.
Eastern Fish & Game
Lakes & Rivers
Eastern Fish & Game manages the trout fishery of the region including the world-famous Rotorua lakes.
Cruise and Fish Rotorua
Lakes & Rivers
Some of the best fishing the Central North Island offers is accessed from Rotorua.
Foris Eco-tours
Lakes & Rivers
Foris Eco-tours offers guided tours of the spectacular Whirinaki Forest and Rotorua's premium rafting adventure down the gorgeous Rangitaiki River. Choose guided hiking or combined river and guided walking options.