Long, light-filled days are made for squeezing in one more adventure. From volcanic craters and forest trails to secluded lakeside hot pools, these unforgettable Rotorua experiences are reason enough to make the most of summer while it lasts.
1. Walk the volcanic crater of Mount Tarawera
Stand on the rust-red summit of a maunga shaped by the powerful 1886 eruption. A guided Mount Tarawera crater walk reveals immense volcanic craters, sweeping lake views and, for those who are keen, an exhilarating scree run into the crater itself. It is a landscape that makes you feel wonderfully small.
2. Reset at award-winning Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa
Slow summer down beside Lake Rotorua at award-winning Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa. Owned by Ngāti Whakaue, this geothermal wellness experience draws on local narratives and traditions of hauora. Surrender to the warm mineral water, restorative rituals and lakefront setting for a deeply relaxing end-of-summer reset.
3. Raft the Kaituna River
Trade a lazy afternoon for white water, waterfalls and the kind of laughter that only happens when everyone is completely soaked. The Kaituna River flows through a fern-filled gorge before plunging over seven-metre Tutea Falls, recognised as the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall. It is fast, fresh and gloriously fun on a warm Rotorua day.
4. Gather for an evening at Te Pā Tū
As daylight fades, step into an award-winning evening shaped by manaakitanga, storytelling, performance and seasonal kai. Te Pā Tū follows the rhythms of the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar, so its offering evolves with the season. It is a memorable opportunity to connect with te ao Māori through generous hospitality and shared experiences.
5. Ride the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop
Follow 33 kilometres of flowing trail through towering redwoods, native bush and open viewpoints on the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop. Mostly Grade 2, with a few Grade 3 sections, this Great Ride is approachable for confident riders without losing its sense of adventure. Pack snacks, hire an e-bike if you prefer and turn a forest ride into a full summer outing.
6. Find geothermal warmth at Te Rātā Bay
Reaching Hot Water Beach at Te Rātā Bay is half the magic. Walk the Tarawera Trail or arrive across Lake Tarawera by water, then feel geothermal warmth rising through the sand beside the cool lake. A swim, picnic and natural lakeside soak make this secluded bay feel like a summer secret worth earning.
7. Fly through the forest with Rotorua Canopy Tours
Clip in, step off and glide between giant native trees while the forest floor sweeps beneath you. Award-winning Rotorua Canopy Tours combines ziplines, swing bridges and knowledgeable guiding with meaningful conservation work. There is speed, height and plenty of exhilaration, but also a deeper connection to the ancient forest you are helping to protect.
8. Wander through Waimangu Volcanic Valley
At Waimangu, geothermal drama unfolds amid regenerating native forest. Follow the walking trails past steaming Frying Pan Lake and brilliantly blue Inferno Crater, with tiny springs and colourful microorganisms revealing a landscape still very much alive. The largely downhill route and internal shuttle make it easy to choose a walk that suits your summer pace.
9. Soak beside Lake Rotoiti
Accessible only across the water or by air, Manupirua Springs, now known as Lake Rotoiti Hot Pools, feels deliciously removed from everyday life. Cruise, kayak, jet boat or fly to this secluded spot, then settle into geothermal water with native bush behind you and the lake stretching ahead. It is the dreamy, swim-and-soak summer day Rotorua does particularly well.
10. See Rotorua from a floatplane
Finish your bucket list on a high. A Volcanic Air floatplane flight begins with a take-off from Lake Rotorua before revealing crater lakes, forests, geothermal valleys and Mount Tarawera from above. The water landing completes an experience that feels cinematic from beginning to end and shows just how extraordinary Rotorua’s volcanic landscape really is.
Summer will not wait forever. Choose the experiences that call to you, book ahead where needed and make the last long days count.
