Nature lovers who love to get around on foot, find great delight in the dozens of trails through beautiful forests and around tranquil lakes
Call in to see the friendly staff at either of our i-SITE locations for information on trails, as well as camping sites, huts and other great attractions, or speak to a Department of Conservation (DOC) consultant, located at our Fenton Street i-SITE.
Download and save the PDF guide for Walking and hiking in Rotorua here:
Walking and hiking in Rotorua (PDF)
Tarawera Trail is a fan favourite. This 15-kilometre advanced tramping track has everything from bridges and natural springs, to native bush and gorgeous views of two lakes. At the end, your efforts will be rewarded with a natural hot water beach, so make sure to include your swim suit when you pack your backpack.
If the return trip by foot is too daunting, pre-book a water taxi to take you back to the start.
Te Puia
Walking & Hiking, Central
There has never been a better time to experience the magic of Te Puia.
Skyline Rotorua Luge and Gondola
Walking & Hiking, North
Skyline Rotorua is an all-weather attraction, and is open every day of the year. Operating hours are from 9am daily until end of restaurant operations each night.
Whakarewarewa - The Living Māori Village
Walking & Hiking, Central
Home of the Tuhourangi, Ngati Wahiao (Māori sub tribes) people and located on a geothermal plateau, Whakarewarewa village is New Zealand’s oldest continuous Māori tourism experience’s pre-dating the world famous Pink & White Terraces.
Foris Eco-tours
Walking & Hiking, Central
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.
Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park - The Hidden Valley
Walking & Hiking, Central
Situated just 45 minutes south of Rotorua and nestled on the shores of Lake Ohakuri lies "The Hidden Valley" of Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Walking & Hiking, Central
We connect people with the beating heart of the world’s youngest geothermal valley, its unique history and legacy. We share how the world began!
Mitai Maori Village
Walking & Hiking, Central
Mitai Maori Village is an indigenous cultural experience incorporating a traditional hangi meal, cultural performance, warrior canoe and sacred freshwater spring. Nau Mai, Haere Mai - welcome!
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Walking & Hiking, Central
New Zealand's most colourful geothermal attraction is just a short drive from either Rotorua or Taupo. This is an area in which the landscape has been sculptured by geothermal activity and where unique volcanic features can be viewed from well defined tracks.
Paradise Valley Springs Wildlife Park
Walking & Hiking, Central
A superbly presented New Zealand trout, bird & wildlife park along with a pride of African lions. Set amongst peaceful and well maintained native New Zealand bush.
Totally Tarawera
Walking & Hiking, Central
Guided cultural and geothermal tours to Te Rata Bay (Hot Water Beach) including a natural hot pool soak.
Thermal Safari
Walking & Hiking, Central
Embark on a scenic trip down the Waikato River and through the spectacular Tutukau Gorge. Take in the stunning scenery and wildlife and hear the stories of the local Maori tribes before our highly skilled drivers/guides thrill you with spins, speed and heart-stopping manoeuvres.