What's On in Rotorua
Rotorua hosts world-class events year round
We love hosting events! We love how they bring communities together, help the city grow, showcase our creativity, entertain the masses, and celebrate our unique treasures such as geothermal wonders, Māori heritage, and gold-level mountain biking trails.
Sporting events connect us like no digital experience can, whether you're competing, supporting a loved one who's competing, or cheering from the side lines. The same goes for performing arts, festivals, concerts, Crankworx Rotorua, and so many more.
The next time you're looking for somewhere to nip away for the weekend, check this page for what's on and join us here in Rotorua!
Rotorua Walking Festival
18 - 19 March 2023
Geothermal areas, lakes and the majestic Redwoods are just some of the sights that walkers will be treated to on the 2023 Rotorua Walking Festival.
Crankworx Rotorua
18 - 26 March 2023
The world’s largest mountain biking festival sees hundreds of professional riders compete in several events.
Tukua Te Wairua Kia Rere
19 March 2023
Opus Orchestra with the Rotorua District Choir and soloist Chalium Poppy celebrate the promise of Easter with musical masterpieces.
Cooking up a Storm
20 March 2023
Aotearoa’s hospitality industry is throwing open its doors to have you over for dinner. In support of those who have been impacted by the effects of Gabrielle.
Volcanic Epic
23 - 26 March 2023
A unique mountain bike stage race, held across 200km’s of New Zealand’s spectacular North Island geothermal region.
Legend of the Lake
25 March 2023
The blue waters and native forest of Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) make for a very special experience for swimmers and spectators.
Oceania BMX Championships
16 April 2023
BMX New Zealand, the Oceania Cycling Confederation and the Rotorua BMX Club are proud to host and present the 2023 Oceania BMX Championships.
Rotorua Marathon & Red Stag Half Marathon
6 May 2023
New Zealand’s most iconic marathon features hidden gems, surreal scenery and stunning natural wonders with the full marathon around Lake Rotorua.
Highlander MTB Challenge
21 May 2023
The Highlander MTB Challenge mountain bike race returns. Two different course lengths, 20 and 45km, means you can pick the challenge, safe in the knowledge you'll be blasting grin-inducing trails, with like-minded people.
Matariki Dish Challenge and Food Trail
12 June - 16 July 2023
This second annual foodie event aims to highlight the unique New Zealand celebration of Matariki, along with amazing food stories.
Costumiers’ Fantasy Masquerade Ball
14 - 15 July 2023
Think cosplay, steampunk, larp, medieval, costumiers, designers, etc., and a weekend full of glorious costumes, music, socialising, food and drinks.
Sunnto Run the Forest
12 August 2023
Three distances, run party vibes, and Rotorua’s unique geothermal and Redwoods Forest trails. Get the crew together and sign up for the coolest thing you’ll do this winter.
Our stories
Great places to eat, drink and have fun.
Visitors' stories
Check out what some of our visitors have gotten up to.