Nature lovers who love to get around on foot, find great delight in the dozens of trails through beautiful forests and around tranquil lakes
Call in to see the friendly staff at either of our i-SITE locations for information on trails, as well as camping sites, huts and other great attractions, or speak to a Department of Conservation (DOC) consultant, located at our Fenton Street i-SITE.
Download and save the PDF guide for Walking and hiking in Rotorua here:
Walking and hiking in Rotorua (PDF) or check out these 10 wonderful walks.
Tarawera Trail is a fan favourite. This 15-kilometre advanced tramping track has everything from bridges and natural springs, to native bush and gorgeous views of two lakes. At the end, your efforts will be rewarded with a natural hot water beach, so make sure to include your swim suit when you pack your backpack.
If the return trip by foot is too daunting, pre-book a water taxi to take you back to the start.
Whirinaki Forest Footsteps
Walking & Hiking, South
A majestic, ancient and spiritual realm. Whirinaki Forest Footsteps is a guided cultural walking tour into the heart of a vast, Jurassic, podocarp native rain forest less than an hour from Rotorua. Hear stories from our Māori guides, as you embark on a healing journey full of discovery.
Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods) Walking Trails
Walking & Hiking, South
The Whakarewarewa Forest or Redwoods walking trails all start at the Redwoods isite, where you can pick up a map before heading to explore the forest walks.
Lake Tikitapu
Walking & Hiking, East
Lake Tikitapu, affectionately known as Blue Lake, is a local favourite and well known to regular visitors to Rotorua.
Tarawera Trail
Walking & Hiking, East
The 15km Tarawera Trail is a beautiful native bush walk that follows the contour of Lake Tarawera to the popular Te Rātā Bay and Hot Water Beach.
Sulphur Bay Wildlife Refuge
Walking & Hiking
Explore an amazing geothermal area where threatened bird populations make their home.
Rotorua Museum: Outside the Walls Historical Government Gardens Tours
Walking & Hiking
Discover Rotorua's rich culture, volatile landscape and legendary figures in this must-do FREE tour around the famous Rotorua Museum and Government Gardens.
Rotorua Lakefront
Walking & Hiking
Walking, running or cycling along the Rotorua lakefront is a great way to enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful setting.
Quarry Lookout Track
Walking & Hiking
Enjoy a 4.8 km walk through the thick forest of Redwoods. Requires a reasonable level of fitness and sturdy footwear.
Ōhinemutu Māori Village
Walking & Hiking
Connect with the culture, people, history and landscape that have made Rotorua the incredible place it is today.
Mt Ngongotahā Nature Loop Track
Walking & Hiking, North
Mount Ngongotahā is a volcanic dome that sits 757 metres above sea level and overlooks the city of Rotorua.
Maunga Kākaramea (Rainbow Mountain) Summit Track
Walking & Hiking
A 2.5km walk or mountain bike ride to the top of Mt Kakaramea rewards you with breathtaking 360° views.
Totally Tarawera
Walking & Hiking
Guided cultural and geothermal tours to Te Rātā Bay and Hot Water Beach, including a natural hot pool soak.