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.
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.
Mokoia Island with Katoa Lake Rotorua
Walking & Hiking, Central
Enjoy an exhilarating jet boat ride across the beautiful Lake Rotorua with Katoa and explore Mokoia Island, considered sacred by local Maori, and learn about one of New Zealand’s most famous love stories.
Kia Ora Guided Walks
Walking & Hiking, Central
A highly personal and entertaining tour through Rotorua city including the picturesque Government Gardens and Ohinemutu Māori Village. Take this opportunity to share our history, explore our land and most importantly to meet our people.
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.
Totally Tarawera
Walking & Hiking, Central
Guided cultural and geothermal tours to Te Rata Bay (Hot Water Beach) including a natural hot pool soak.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Te Puia
Walking & Hiking, Central
There has never been a better time to experience the magic of Te Puia.
Volcanic Air
Walking & Hiking, Central
From the experience of taking flight in a floatplane or helicopter, through to the thrill of exploring our stunning lakes district, vibrant geothermal reserves and remarkable volcanoes, Volcanic Air has an option for everyone.