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.
Mt Tarawera Volcanic Crater Hike - Kaitiaki Adventures Aotearoa
Walking & Hiking, Central
Experience the unique landscape and history of Mt Tarawera. Infamous for its eruption on June 10th, 1886, Mt Tarawera created the world’s youngest geothermal valley of Waimangu.
Hell's Gate Geothermal Park & Mud Spa
Walking & Hiking, Central
Hell’s Gate is Rotorua’s most active geothermal park and New Zealand’s only Mud Spa complex. Enjoy this thermal wonder land with our interactive guided or self-guided tour before relaxing in the geothermal muds and sulphur waters.
Kaharoa Kokako Track
Walking & Hiking, Central
This track offers a great opportunity to hear the enchanting dawn chorus of the kōkako.
Te Puia
Walking & Hiking, Central
Experience New Zealand's geothermal wonderland. Walk alongside a beautiful landscape of uncovered natural bush, mud pools and the majestic Pōhutu Geyser - the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere.
Redwoods Treewalk & Nightlights
Walking & Hiking, Central
Majestic and magical, the Redwoods Treewalk™ experience is truly a walk to remember. Suspended high above the forest floor, encounter 75-metre-tall Californian redwoods as you walk across eco-suspended bridges and platforms intricately designed to honour and accentuate the stunning natural environment.
Lake Ōkāreka
Walking & Hiking, Central
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 Rotoiti
Walking & Hiking, Central
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 Ōkareka Walkway
Walking & Hiking, Central
Lake Ōkareka is popular with water skiers, swimmers, boaties and walkers.
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.
Totally Tarawera
Walking & Hiking, Central
Guided cultural and geothermal tours to Te Rata Bay (Hot Water Beach) including a natural hot pool soak.
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.
Morning Lakes Tour
Walking & Hiking, Central
Get you Off The Beaten Track with Real Rotorua, whilst visiting the best locations and viewing points that Rotorua has to offer.