Rotorua’s natural beauty is unrivalled, with a landscape shaped by beautiful lakes and ancient forests that offer the perfect setting for relaxation and gentle exploration.
Whether you’re seeking peaceful walking tracks, refreshing swims, or even a glimpse into Māori cultural history, Rotorua’s lakes and forests provide the ideal backdrop.
Dive into the crystal waters of Lake Tikitapu
Lake Tikitapu (pictured at top), aka Blue Lake, is a Rotorua gem. Known for its brilliant azure waters, it’s a popular spot for a gentle swim or a peaceful lakeside picnic; the calm waters are perfect for visitors of all ages. The 5.5 km Blue Lake Track that loops around the roto offers a gorgeous place for active relaxers to unwind, and with around half of the track situated in the shade of the lakeside forest, it’s great for staying cool. Meanwhile, the beach and grassy verge are ideal spots to unwind and soak up the sun, and the playground is an added bonus for kids.Find peace and beauty at Lake Tarawera
Surrounded by lush native bush and stunning mountain views, Lake Tarawera is a haven to escape to. Tarawera is ideal for swimming or taking a leisurely stroll along the lakeside tracks. For something a bit more special, book a water taxi to take you across the lake to the famous Hot Water Beach, where warm geothermal springs bubble up through the sand – perfect for a hot soak. While the lake’s deeper history is tied to the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption, today it’s a place of relaxation, offering serene beauty and quiet reflection.Relax and unwind by the shores of Lake Ōkāreka
Nestled within a tranquil valley, Lake Ōkāreka offers a perfect blend of nature and serenity. Its shallow, clear waters are great for swimming, and the lakeside boardwalk provides an easy, picturesque walk through wetlands teeming with birdlife. The laid-back vibe of Ōkāreka makes it a popular spot for families and couples looking for a peaceful day by the water. The boardwalk, which follows the shoreline, is accessible and offers spectacular views of the lake’s calm surface and surrounding hills.Discover the heart of the city at Lake Rotorua
As the city's largest lake, Lake Rotorua holds deep cultural significance, with Mokoia Island at its heart, and the city’s birthplace along the picturesque shores.While swimming isn’t common in Lake Rotorua due to its geothermal activity along much of its shoreline, a stroll along the boardwalk just minutes from the city centre is a perfect way to catch stunning views of both the lake and island. Stop by the coffee cart Eighty Six or grab a bubble tea next door. Follow the boardwalk to your right to see the beautiful new Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa. Heading in the opposite direction, you’ll find two new epic playgrounds, lots of seating, cultural art, and the brand-new whare waka housing a hand-carved Te Arawa waka.
Another five to 10 minutes of walking will take you to Ohinemutu Village. Ohinemutu was discovered by the Ngāti Whakaue tribe, a sub-tribe of the Te Arawa waka which journeyed from the Pacific homeland of Hawaiiki to New Zealand around 1350AD. The location was chosen as a new settlement for its lakeside setting and abundant geothermal energy, used for cooking, bathing and heating.
Visitors are welcome to walk around this living village, at no charge. Remember to keep to the paths at all times and respect the locals who’ve lived here for generations – this is their home.
St Faith’s Anglican Church is located in the village and open for visitation as well as Sunday services.
Step into the tranquillity of Whakarewarewa Forest
Whakarewarewa Forest is a natural sanctuary. Fondly known as “the Redwoods” for its towering California redwoods, you’ll be strolling among giant trees around 70 metres tall and more than 100 years old. The redwoods stand proudly alongside New Zealand’s lush native bush and soft, fern-filled undergrowth lining the tracks. The serene atmosphere is perfect when you’re looking to reconnect with nature at your own pace.Eight clearly sign-marked walking tracks range from a 1.7km on up to a full-day circuit. The Redwood Memorial Grove (2km) and Puarenga Stream (1.7KM) tracks are popular for their gentle, mostly flat and wide trails under the canopy of native and exotic trees and understory plants. Both of these tracks have boardwalks and bridges over beautiful, clear streams to enjoy. Do keep an eye out for mountain bikers and even horse riders as some trails in the forest are multipurpose. Maps are available at the Redwoods isite on Tītokorangi Drive.
