Need a quiet space to unwind? A secret hideaway from the restless kids? How about a little spot of nature or a picnic-perfect park?
Lots of public places and spaces are easily accessible in Rotorua, and most are free. From the recently renovated (and caffeinated!) Te Aka Mauri Rotorua Library, to Sulphur Bay Wildlife Refuge, to many of our 18 lakes. Don’t forget our most-loved Whakarewarewa Forest, the geothermal Kuirau Park in the heart of town, and the rolling, tree-lined hills of Centennial Park. Such perfect antidotes if you’ve been on the go.
The listings below will provide you with some great ideas and many won’t cost a thing!
Neil Hunt Park
Public Places & Spaces
Located 5 minutes drive from central Rotorua, Neil Hunt Park serves the local communities sport's and recreational needs.
Rotorua Library Te Aka Mauri
Public Places & Spaces
Come relax with your favorite book or learn something new. There's something for everyone at the local Rotorua Library.
Guy Roe Reserve
Public Places & Spaces, South
A popular location for fishing, picnics and boat activities.
Lake Tarawera
Public Places & Spaces
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.
Lake Rerewhakaaitu
Public Places & Spaces, South
Camping, picnicking, swimming and boating are all popular recreational activities at Lake Rerewhakaaitu Recreational Reserve.
Hinehopu Reserve
Public Places & Spaces, East
At the eastern end of Lake Rotoiti is Hinehopu Reserve, well-known for shoreline fishing.
Government Gardens
Public Places & Spaces
Government Gardens is a beautiful public park situated along the edge of Lake Rotorua and just minutes from the city centre.
Boyes Beach & Park
Public Places & Spaces, East
Boyes Beach is one of the largest beaches on Lake Ōkareka and a great attraction during the warmer months, and popular for swimming, fishing and picnicking.
Kuirau Park
Public Places & Spaces
Check out the natural boiling, bubbling and steaming geothermal action throughout Kuirau Park, New Zealand’s only free geothermal public park!
Sulphur Bay Wildlife Refuge
Public Places & Spaces
Explore an amazing geothermal area where threatened bird populations make their home.
Lake Tikitapu
Public Places & Spaces, East
Lake Tikitapu, affectionately known as Blue Lake, is a local favourite and well known to regular visitors to Rotorua.