There’s something special about finding a quiet corner in nature – the sound of rushing water, birdsong and views that speak for themselves. While the region’s famous geothermal wonders are a must, sometimes it’s the lesser-known spots that really make you feel like a local.
These hidden nature escapes are all within an hour’s drive of the city, easy to access and just far enough off the beaten track to feel like a secret.
Te Wairoa Falls
Distance: 30 minutes from Rotorua | Walk time: 30–45 minutes return | Access: included in Buried Village of Te Wairoa tickets
Hidden behind the Buried Village, this short trail winds through lush bush before revealing a 30-metre waterfall that tumbles dramatically into the valley below. The track is well formed but has a few stairs, making it an easy yet rewarding stroll. It’s a peaceful pocket of history and nature that feels far from the crowds.
Tarawera Falls
Distance: 1 hour 10 minutes from Rotorua | Walk time: 20 minutes to viewing area (1.5 km each way) | Access: permit purchased from Kawerau isite
Here, the Tarawera River vanishes underground before bursting through the cliffs in a spectacular rush of white water. Reaching it feels like a small adventure with gravel roads, a short walk and the distant sound of the thunder of mother nature beckoning you towards the falls. You’ll need a visitor permit from the Kawerau isite to access the track, but that small extra step keeps it wonderfully uncrowded. The path is easy, shaded and ends at a viewing platform where you can feel the power wild, untamed and unforgettable power of the falls.
Lake Rotoiti Hot Pools
Distance: 25 minutes from Rotorua | Access: Water taxi, kayak or private boat
You can only reach the Lake Rotoiti Hot Pools by water, and that’s half the charm. Glide across Lake Rotoiti by kayak or take a quick water taxi to find steaming pools tucked into native bush. Here, you can soak, swim and listen to nothing but the lapping of the lake. It’s one of those experiences that locals whisper about. It’s a little effort to reach, but absolutely worth it.
Hamurana Springs Nature Reserve
Distance: 20 minutes from Rotorua | Walk time: 30-minute loop | Access: Admission purchased from the Hamurana Springs office
Hamurana Springs is Rotorua’s most tranquil treasure. It’s an easy loop walk through redwoods and beside impossibly clear turquoise water that bubbles up from deep underground. It’s flat, family friendly and brimming with birdlife. Early morning is when it’s at its most peaceful.
Okere Falls
Distance: 25 minutes from Rotorua | Walk time: 30 minutes loop | Access: Track accessed along Okere Falls Rd
A favourite among locals, Okere Falls blends adventure and tranquillity in equal measure. Watch white-water rafters tumble through the rapids, then wander the easy loop track past shaded lookouts and rushing cascades. Grab a coffee from the Okere Falls Store and sit among the trees - it’s a summer ritual that never gets old.
Rainbow Mountain
Distance: 25 minutes from Rotorua | Walk time: 1.5–2 hours return (to summit) | Access: Parking along State Highway 5 (about 500 metres after the SH 38 turnoff)
For something a little more adventurous, Rainbow Mountain offers an easy-to-moderate climb with big rewards. The trail winds past steaming vents and vividly coloured earth before opening up to a sweeping 360° view over Rotorua, the lakes and Mt Tarawera. Start early to beat the heat and enjoy the morning light over the peaks.
