Go beyond Rotorua’s main attractions to uncover the places locals return to time and again. From peaceful lakeside picnics and hidden glowworm spots to community gatherings, forest trails, and free geothermal experiences, these lesser-known gems offer a more authentic way to experience Rotorua. Slow down, explore like a local, and discover the natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and welcoming community that make Rotorua such a special place to call home.
Thursday night at the Rotorua Night Market
Rotorua Night Market is a great way to see Rotorua's community vibe as friends and family gather to connect. Enjoy boutique-style shopping and dozens of food trucks and food stalls while you're entertained by talented local musicians at this vibrant, family-friendly market.
Hamurana Springs and the giant redwoods
A short drive from the city is the crystal-clear Hamurana Springs Nature Reserve, famous for its beautiful, crystal-clear, freshwater spring. Huge redwoods planted over a century ago, and birdlife make it one of the most peaceful walks in the district.
Swim or picnic at Lake Okareka
Head to Lake Okareka. It offers a more residential, local feel. Yet it has something for everyone. Boyes Beach is perfect for families with a playground, changing rooms, toilets and plenty of accessible parking. There's a short, easy-going lakeside track heading away from the beach, crystal clear water, a cliff jump for those feeling adventurous. On the other side of the lake is a beautiful boardwalk, suitable for strollers with country and lake views; and areas for bird spotting.
Enjoy a summers evening at the Blue Lake
20 minutes’ drive from the city centre is the Blue Lake, Tikitapu. A great spot for a quick evening swim. Popular also for water sports and walkers, the 5.5km loop around the lake weaves through beautiful native bush and the exotic conifers of Whakarewarewa Forest, dropping into sandy beaches at each end of the lake. Dogs on leads are permitted on this track.
Find a glowworm spot
There are a few lesser-known spots around Rotorua where you can see glowworms. Some are accessible only by kayak, like the Lake Rotoiti Caves, while some you will find in favourite spots like Ōkere Falls Track and Redwoods Forest. Several operators run small-group glowworm experiences in Rotorua's forests and streams.
Explore the Nature Loop Track
The Nature Loop Track on Mount Ngongotahā is a short walk, great for families and groups seeking a connection to nature. The 2.5km track showcases the beautiful flora and fauna of this maunga, alongside native birdlife and features one of the largest rātā trees in the Bay of Plenty.
Mountain bike the not so famous Redwoods trails
Everyone talks about the Redwoods, but the Treewalk is just the beginning. Hire a bike and head deeper into Whakarewarewa Forest, where more than 220 kilometres of trails offer endless opportunities to explore. Venture beyond the main routes and you'll find quiet corners of the forest, exhilarating flow trails, and a side of Rotorua that many visitors never see. It's easy to understand why Rotorua is considered New Zealand's mountain biking capital.
Jump off the jetty at Lake Tarawera
Tarawera is the second largest lake in the North Island. The view from the shore, toward Mount Tarawera, is stunning. The road out there passes alongside Blue Lake, The Buried Village of Te Wairoa, and through some beautiful countryside. It’s a popular spot for boaties, fishermen, swimmers and explorers. Tracks either side of ‘the Landing’ lead to secluded swimming spots. Take a picnic, sit and soak in the views an if you’re brave enough, jump off the end of the jetty into the ice cool water.
Take a walk through Kuirau Park
Kuirau Park is free to visit and is New Zealand’s only geothermal public park. Check out the bubbling and steaming geothermal action! Several walkways take you through the park to see the crater lake, mud pools, hot springs, and a free thermal foot bath. Kuirau Park is also great place to play and picnic, with barbecues, picnic tables, children's playground and toilets. It also hosts the Kuirau Park Market on a Saturday morning.
