Rotorua’s natural landscapes are pure magic with soaring redwoods, sparkling lakes, and geothermal terrain that invites exploration and wonder.
Hamurana Springs Nature Reserve
Natural Landscapes, Central
Discover the beauty of Hamurana Springs at your own pace or be guided by a descendant of the Ngāti Rangiwewehi people who first migrated to the area in the mid-1300s. Enjoy the stunning natural elements and cultural stories that make this such a magical place.
Hell's Gate Geothermal Park & Mud Spa
Natural Landscapes, East
Hell’s Gate is Rotorua’s most active geothermal reserve and New Zealand’s only mud spa complex.
Lake Ōkāreka
Natural Landscapes, East
One of the smaller lakes in the Rotorua region, Lake Ōkāreka remains off the beaten path, tucked away off the main road accessing lakes Tikitapu and Tarawera.
Lake Ōkataina
Natural Landscapes, East
Lake Ōkataina is closed for one month effective from October 1st 2023. The name Ōkataina means "The lake of laughter", a shortened form of the original name Te Moana-i-kataina-a-Te Rangitakaroro.
Lake Rerewhakaaitu
Natural Landscapes, South
Camping, picnicking, swimming and boating are all popular recreational activities at Lake Rerewhakaaitu Recreational Reserve.
Lake Rotoiti
Natural Landscapes, East
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.
Lake Rotokākahi (Green Lake)
Natural Landscapes, East
Rotokākahi means "the lake of the shellfish kakahi". Locals also refer to the lake as the Green Lake.
Lake Rotomā
Natural Landscapes, East
Lake Rotomā means "lake of exceptionally clear water". The lake currently has the best water quality of all the Rotorua lakes.
Lake Rotomahana
Natural Landscapes, South
Sitting at the base of Mount Tarawera, Lake Rotomahana is steeped in history and surrounded by geothermal features like geysers, fumeroles and colourful steaming cliffs.
Lake Rotorua
Natural Landscapes, Central
The largest of our region’s lakes, Rotorua is a volcanic caldera, formed from the crater of a large volcano.
Lake Tarawera
Natural Landscapes, East
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.