Rotorua is a hub of activity that is perfect for a fun family getaway. From thrill-seeking adventures to stunning geothermal walks and cultural influences throughout the city, Rotorua will become a new family favourite adventure.
Please note: Venue information was correct at the time of publication. Please check with individual venues for the latest opening dates, times, prices, etc, before making plans.
Fun family experiences
Whether you’re looking for a fun family activity or cultural immersion, Rotorua caters for families with a huge range of of activities.
Fun for the whole family set high on the side of Mount Ngongotaha with extensive views. Relax as you glide to the top in the Gondola, take on the Luge track, ride the Zoom Ziplines, tempt the tastebuds in the Jelly Belly Store and more.
Enjoy a self-guided walk through geothermal activity and see the world’s largest hot spring (Frying Pan Lake) and the incredible Inferno Crater. Take the cruise on Lake Rotomahana to see native birdlife and hear stories of the lake and the Mount Tarawera eruption.
View some of Rotorua’s most spectacular scenery as you travel on land and lake in a genuine WW2 amphibious landing craft while enjoying the informative and entertaining commentary.
Discover Rotorua’s peaceful, ecological hideaway! Traverse the suspension bridges and platforms among the majestic trees of the Redwood Forest. Visit at night for a magical wonderland of colour and light.
Explore the canopy of a prehistoric native forest as you travel on a network of ziplines, swing bridges, cliff-walks, tree top platforms and more. Experienced guides will keep you safe, make you laugh and welcome you into this forest conservaton journey.
The Buried Village of Te Wairoa
Discover stories of the 1886 Mt Tarawera Eruption which buried the Te Wairoa village and nearby Pink and White Terraces. Walk the archaeological site and waterfall trail. Kids can grab a clue from reception and go on the hunt for more clues and even treasure!
See the powerful Pōhutu geyser and other geothermal wonders, then seek out Aotearoa’s national treasure in the Kiwi Conservation Centre. Learn about Māori history and culture as you watch master carvers and weavers from the NZ Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.
This is the place to get kids into art! Step right into the art itself and take those weird and wonderful photos that will have everyone scratching their heads. Part of the Heritage Farm Experience and the first of its kind in New Zealand, this is family fun dialed up.
Take an interactive tour of New Zealand’s most active geothermal reserve including an active mud volcano and a hot waterfall. You can also indulge by bathing in geothermal mud baths and sulphur spas to experience the healing properties.
Dive into a giant inflatable ball and roll down Mt Ngongotaha for an experience like no other! Four different tracks and add water for more hilarity, then relax in the hot tubs. Home to the world’s first ever ZORB site.
Free family activities
Even if you’re travelling on a budget, there are still so many experiences you can enjoy with your family.
An easy walk from the city centre, this public park has geothermal pools and mud, footpools and a kids playground. Also home to the council pools for a budget-friendly swim.
In the carpark there is a viewing point where you can see both the Blue and Green Lakes either side of you. The lake is popular in the summer for swimming and picnics.
The Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
Walk or cycle amongst the majestic Redwoods. There are many tracks including family-friendly short walks.
See birdlife and geothermal activity on this scenic lakeside trail beginning in the centre of the city.
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A delightful walk to see the magnificent waterfalls, plus keep an eye out for intrepid whitewater rafters and kayakers.
Beautiful gardens surround the stunning tudor-style spa bath house that graces so many postcards from Rotorua.
Just over half an hour south of Rotorua, Kerosene Creek is where a geothermal hot spring meets a freshwater creek. Bathe & relax while taking in the view of the waterfall and native bush.
Family friendly eateries
All the action that Rotorua has to offer can lead to growling tummies so it’s lucky there’s plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from.
Just five minutes walk from Kuirau Park and serving from breakfast to dinner. The menu is influenced by Mexican and Moroccan flavours and there’s tapas after 5pm. The kids menu includes options for the littlest ones too.
Sundaes, cones, shakes, smoothies and yum! Dozens of ice cream flavours to choose from. Just across the road from the Village Green.
Make up your own meal with Gengy’s buffet-style selection of meat, seafood, vegetables, sauces and spices, then have the chefs cook your combination right in front of you. Finish off with freshly made pancakes and ice cream with toppings.
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Open from 7am to 7pm, eat in or take out from the menu or the droolworthy ready-to-go cabinet food. Vegan, gluten-free and keto options available.
This iconic cafe is fun and quirky. Open for big breakfasts in the morning through to brilliant burgers and salads at lunchtime plus kids “snax” and sweet treats.
The iconic family restaurant has something for everyone. The special kids area features a large fish tank, toys and games consoles and the kids menu caters for all ages (including the famous traffic light drinks!).
Where to stay
For family friendly stays, we recommend checking out the below. Or search here for holiday parks and campgrounds.
Comfortable and modern accommodation for families. After an adventurous day out, enjoy a soak in the geothermally heated outdoor pool which is open year-round. The locally famous Chapmans Restaurant with its extensive buffet and a la carte options is on-site and kids stay and eat free (T&Cs apply).
Ideally situated for easy access to the attractions in Fairy Springs and the city centre, this contemporary hotel is the ideal base for exploring. Variety of guest rooms including family suites that sleep up to six, plus swimming pool and spa pool onsite.
Distinction Rotorua Hotel & Conference Centre
Minutes from the city centre and adjacent to the Whakarewarewa Forest. The hotel offers free WiFi, mountain bike facilities, a heated outdoor swimming pool, plus underground private grotto spas and four restaurants and cafes for delicious dining options. Family rooms and interconnecting rooms available.
Bring the whole family including the dog to this pet-friendly family hotel. Kids will love the play area, swimming pool and free WiFi and you will love that kids stay free with complimentary continental breakfasts for all. The family suites sleep up to four with children’s soft furnishings and toys for a home away from home.
Near to Te Puia, this hotel has 110 spacious rooms and suites. With a heated outdoor pool, gym, outdoor spas, and Jimmy Cook’s Kiwi Kitchen restaurant on site, plus Māori concert & feast nights, there’s plenty for the family to enjoy.
Quality, affordable accommodation located a short walk to the lake in a quiet street near to shops and restaurants. All suites have kitchen facilities and there’s a range of rooms including interconnecting suites and a large 3-bedroom apartment style family suite.
Main photo credit: Vaughan Brookfield
See more
- Discover more to do in Rotorua
- Find family-friendly fun all across Aotearoa
- Plan a trip to Taupo with our destination guide
- Richie & Gemma McCaw’s top tips for family travel
- Nature experiences around New Zealand that are made to share
Written by Kidspot New Zealand in partnership with 100% Pure New Zealand.
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