Top Things to do in Rotorua District
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10 Free Things to do in Rotorua District That You Shouldn't Miss
Discover the best top things to do in Rotorua District, New Zealand including Mountain Jade, Rotorua Antiques & Collectables, Lake Rotorua, Ohinemutu, Lake Rotoiti, Kuirau Park, Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest, Hamurana Springs Nature Reserve, Government Gardens, St. Faith's Anglican Church.
Restaurants in Rotorua District
1. Mountain Jade
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 34 reviews
Mountain Jade is home to the largest and most diverse collection of pounamu in New Zealand. Step into our workshop, meet local carvers and discover the art and stories that make up our gallery. Experience the diverse styles and artwork of talented pounamu artists from around New Zealand on one of our free daily tours. Join our friendly and knowledgeable guides as they introduce you to the history of greenstone carving in New Zealand, exploring the legends and stories which connect Māori to the stone and uncovering the traditional uses and values of pounamu. Observe the modern-day carving process as our local artists welcome you into their workshop and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and atmosphere of a small greenstone studio. Get to know our artists as they tell you about their passion and inspiration for carving. Workshop tours are free and available between 11 am - 4 pm daily. No bookings required, all ages welcome.
Reviewed By Geordie1337
Had a wonderfully informative tour by Ian who guided us through the cultural and scientific history of the amazing Jade/Greenstone. We felt drawn to two specific pieces which haven’t been taken off since and we were delighted to find these as it means a lot to my partner and I to have this connection to her heritage. Thanks to Ian and all the other artists/staff.
2. Rotorua Antiques & Collectables
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 35 reviews
Are you looking for a broad range of antiques near Rotorua? We sell antiques and collectibles - typical New Zealand Antiques, jewellery, paintings, pottery, porcelain, Kiwiana, oriental, retro, scientific instruments, clocks and watches, small furniture, crown lynn, lladro, moorcroft, ivory, jade, coral, bronzes, antique bottles, vintage toys, pounamu, tools, musical instruments, art glass,...
Reviewed By Burni61
If you enjoy browsing in Antique shops this shop is well worth a visit next time you’re in Rotorua. It is filled with a wide range of lovely antiques and collectables and you can spend ages browsing at the treasures within. The owner is very friendly and helpful and leaves you to browse at leisure making Shopping there a pleasurable experience. I look forward to visiting again in the future.
3. Lake Rotorua
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,055 reviews
The largest of a dozen lakes formed by volcanic activity, this clear, calm lake offers cruises, kayaking and sailing, as well as great trout fishing.
Reviewed By 716sachink - Plainview, United States
Lake Rotorua is a fabulous lake and can be reached by a short walk from the city center. It was a very pleasant experience just walking on the pathway at the edge of the lake and watching some interesting wild life including some black swans. Certainly would very highly recommend Lake Rotorua to any traveler.
4. Ohinemutu
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 203 reviews
Reviewed By klvmar
Ohinemutu is the site of a Maori village on the shores of Lake Rotorua. Two beautiful structures at this location face each other, the Tamatekapua meeting house and St. Faith's Anglican Church. Both buildings are predominantly white with red trim, and both are embellished with impressive Maori carvings.
5. Lake Rotoiti
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 114 reviews
Reviewed By buntys2 - London, United Kingdom
Yes, it’s a long way from anywhere but that therein lies its charm. With only the most basic facilities plus a charming water taxi service, this is an ideal place to swim,sail, walk, unwind. Only downside is the the presence of sand flies and some hungry ducks and seagulls. Bring a picnic and hang out with locals and visitors alike.
6. Kuirau Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,151 reviews
Reviewed By FoodObsessedLaura - Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Visited this place a few weeks ago and it was my first experience of Rotorua's thermal wonders. I was amazed at all of the bubbling mud pools and clear boiling water holes. There was informative signs all around the park, explaining the thermal occurrences and past stories/theories of how the lakes became boiling. At the end of the walk, I relaxed with my feet in the thermal foot spa. One of the best free things to do in Rotorua and definitely recommend going here.
7. Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,126 reviews
If you love the outdoors this area is for you! Escape into the beautiful Whakarewarewa Forest, one of Rotorua’s most spectacular natural assets. Famous for its magnificent stands of towering Californian Coastal Redwoods it is just five minutes drive from the city centre. Here you can experience some of the finest walking and mountain bike trails in the world. Not to mention taking in superb panoramic views of Rotorua City, Lake and surrounding district. Entry to the forest, tracks and Gift Shop & Visitor Centre is FREE. There is lots of parking and toilet facilities available. Gates open at 5.30am and close late. Maps and information is available at the Redwoods I-Site and Visitor Centre. Don't forget to also check out the Redwoods Treewalk. This is available at the Redwoods and provides an alternative way to experience the Redwoods both during the day and at night. It is a paid attraction see their listing for more details.
Reviewed By 648judyr - North Vancouver, Canada
Some Kiwi friends had recommended this walk through the woods while we were staying in Rotorua. Very glad we put one foot in front of the other and meandered through this magnificent grove of California redwoods. The trails had different levels of difficulty and also varying lengths of time, but all were clearly marked. A wonderful and peaceful walk in the woods that will get you back in touch with nature.
8. Hamurana Springs Nature Reserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 401 reviews
Get back to nature with the unparalleled peace and serenity that is Hamurana Springs. Feel the troubles of the modern world disappear as you journey through lush, untouched landscape on an easy, low impact streamside walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Originally a tribal settlement today it is an untouched nature park and wildlife refuge, which combined with the manaakitanga (hospitality) of the tangata whenua (people of the land) make Hamurana Springs a truly magical experience. Come and experience the culture, history, serenity and spirit that is Hamurana Springs.
Reviewed By sharonmartin2016 - Wellington, New Zealand
A lovely place to walk around and see beautiful scenery and lovely clear water. We were the only ones there so it was very peaceful and serene. The redwood trees were amazing to see alongside the clear water and springs. Well worth a visit.
9. Government Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,176 reviews
Reviewed By GaryandLesleyTravel - Auckland Central, New Zealand
These lovely grounds can easily be over looked but set sometime aside to enjoy the beautiful park setting and follow the path around the lakefront towards Sulpher Bay to experience the geothermal goings on and the mass of bird life. Inside the park don’t miss the Rachel Spring - hot water pool - by the historical blue baths.
10. St. Faith's Anglican Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 292 reviews
Reviewed By Sus1952 - Palmerston North, New Zealand
This is such a lovely church and it is open from 10am to 3pm each day. You just need to give a donation and enjoy. The Maori carving is gorgeous and the window with Christ seemingly walking on Lake Rotorua is gorgeous. The man who opened the church for us was most friendly.
