Don’t miss the chance to explore Rotorua’s stunning lakes, including the picturesque Lake Tarawera, the expansive Lake Rotoiti, the tranquil Lake Ōkareka, and the vibrant blue waters of Lake Tikitapu.
Discover the breath-taking beauty and thrilling adventures awaiting you in Rotorua, a destination renowned for its 18 magnificent lakes, three major rivers, and an abundance of ways to enjoy them – including at night.
By day, immerse yourself in a variety of water activities such as swimming, fishing, lakeside picnicking, stand-up paddle boarding, and other exciting water sports. Whether you’re setting sail with a boat, grabbing your floaties, or just looking to relax by the water, our beautiful lakes promise endless fun and relaxation.
For a truly unique experience, escape to one of Rotorua’s two secluded thermal hot water beaches – Hot Water Beach at Te Rātā Bay or Manupirua Springs Hot Pools at Lake Rotoiti – accessible only by water shuttles, water taxi, jet boat, floatplane, or a scenic hike along Tarawera Trail. Let the warm waters melt your worries away.
Thrill-seekers will find their paradise with exhilarating jet boat tours. Choose from a ride through a thrilling, man-made river course at Velocity Valley, or race across Lake Rotorua with Katoa Jet.
One of Rotorua’s world-famous adventures awaits adrenaline junkies. Kaituna River offers the opportunity to plunge over the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall with local whitewater rafting companies, or in a guided tandem kayak with New Zealand Whitewater Academy.
By night, venture out on a canoe with Waimarino Kayak Tours, or kayak or SUP with Paddle Board Rotorua tour across a serene lake to witness the magical glow worms illuminating the night.
Rotorua is a destination where natural beauty meets adventure, creating unforgettable memories for every visitor.
Lake Rotoiti
Lakes & Rivers
Lake Rotoiti is one of the three largest lakes in the Rotorua region. Surrounded by lush native bush, it also features glow worm caves and a secluded hot pool complex.
Lake Rerewhakaaitu
Lakes & Rivers, South
Camping, picnicking, swimming and boating are all popular recreational activities at Lake Rerewhakaaitu Recreational Reserve.
Lake Ōkataina
Lakes & Rivers
Lake Ōkataina is closed for one month effective from October 1st 2023. The name Ōkataina means "The lake of laughter", a shortened form of the original name Te Moana-i-kataina-a-Te Rangitakaroro.
Lake Ōkāreka Walkway
Lakes & Rivers
Lake Ōkāreka is popular with water skiers, swimmers, boaties and walkers.
Lake Ōkāreka
Lakes & Rivers
One of the smaller lakes in the Rotorua region, Lake Ōkāreka remains off the beaten path, tucked away off the main road accessing lakes Tikitapu and Tarawera.
Lake Atiamuri
Lakes & Rivers, West
When Lake Atiamuri is first seen, the water appears to be almost black although it is in fact clean and has good visibility.
Katoa Jet
Lakes & Rivers
Blast around Lake Rotorua with Katoa Jet on an adrenaline-infused jet boat ride.
Kaituna Cascades Rafting Company
Lakes & Rivers
Join the Original Kaituna Rafting Company for an unbeatable grade 5 white-water experience on one of New Zealand's most exciting and beautiful rivers!
Kaitiaki Adventures – Sledging the Kaituna River
Lakes & Rivers
Multi-award winning Kaitiaki Adventures is passionate about continually providing world-class adventure tourism experiences in Rotorua. They love to share Aotearoa’s stunning environment, history and unique Māori culture, all the while infusing your experience with the warm and caring manaakitanga (hospitality) Rotorua is renowned for.
Hamurana Springs Nature Reserve
Lakes & Rivers
Discover the beauty of Hamurana Springs at your own pace or be guided by a descendant of the Ngāti Rangiwewehi people who first migrated to the area in the mid-1300s. Enjoy the stunning natural elements and cultural stories that make this such a magical place.