Looking for epic ways to get the whānau outdoors and into nature? Whether you’re chasing thrills, discovering new landscapes, or just want to see the kids light up with excitement, Rotorua is the ultimate playground for families. From soaring through the forest canopy to rolling down hills in giant inflatable balls, here are five unforgettable experiences that redefine what a family-friendly outdoor adventure can look like.
Here’s what’s on the list:
- Zipline Through 1,000-year-old Trees with Rotorua Canopy Tours
- Walk Among Giants at Redwoods Treewalk
- Roll, Bounce & Laugh at ZORB Rotorua
- Skyline Rotorua – Gondola, Luge & Views for Days
- Agrodome – Farmyard Fun with a Kiwi Twist
1. Zipline Through 1,000-year-old Trees with Rotorua Canopy Tours
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This isn’t just ziplining—this is a full-on journey into one of the last ancient native forests in the country. At Rotorua Canopy Tours, you’ll fly between towering rimu and tawa trees, edge your way across swing bridges, and hear the calls of native birds returning to a forest that’s being brought back to life.
It’s adventure with heart. Kids aged 6+ can join in the fun on the Original Canopy Tour, while the Ultimate Canopy Tour is designed for adventurers aged 10 and up. With two epic tours to choose from, there’s something to suit every kind of explorer. Expect plenty of laughs, a fair bit of wow, and a real sense of connection with Aotearoa’s natural world. If you’re looking for a family-friendly outdoor adventure that ticks the boxes for thrill, scenery, and sustainability—this is it.
- Ages 6+ welcome
- Ancient native forest setting
- Learn about real conservation work
- Two tour options: Original (3 hrs) & Ultimate (3.75 hrs)
- Run by passionate local guides who care
2. Walk Among Giants at the Redwoods Treewalk
Step into another world beneath the towering canopy of Rotorua’s famous Whakarewarewa Forest. The Redwoods Treewalk is a series of suspension bridges that weave through majestic Californian redwoods—and its all just minutes away from town.
This is an easy, accessible walk that even the littlest legs can enjoy. And if you can stay until sunset, the Nightlights experience turns the forest into a glowing wonderland of lanterns, shadow, and magic. Whether by day or night, it’s a peaceful yet awe-inspiring family-friendly outdoor adventure for all ages.
- Gentle adventure for all ages
- 700m-long suspended walkway
- Stunning by day, magical by night
- Forest bathing meets fairy lights
3. Roll, Bounce & Laugh at ZORB Rotorua
Get ready for some serious giggles. ZORB Rotorua is the only place on the planet where you can jump inside a giant inflatable ball and roll down a hill—just because it’s fun! Whether you’re racing each other or tumbling down solo, it’s a wild, wet, wonderful time.
The warm water inside means you’re comfy year-round, and there are four different tracks to choose from—some fast, some twisty, all hilarious. For kids and parents who love a bit of wackiness, it’s a unique take on the family-friendly outdoor adventure and guaranteed to leave everyone grinning.
- Ages 5+
- Four unique tracks
- Warm water = no cold splashes
- So much laughter your cheeks might hurt
Try it out →
4. Skyline Rotorua – Gondola, Luge & Views for Days
Skyline Rotorua is packed with family fun from top to bottom. Ride the gondola up Mt Ngongotahā and soak up the views before picking your luge track—whether you’re in the mood for something scenic or a bit speedier, there’s a track for everyone.
There’s also a Jelly Belly store (hello, sugar rush), a giant sky swing, and a mountaintop café with panoramic views that are worth every bite. It’s a thrilling yet accessible family-friendly outdoor adventure that blends heart-racing fun with stunning scenery.
- Suitable for all ages (luge has kid-sized carts)
- Gondola access = super easy
- Five luge tracks to mix and match
- Adventure + views in one epic package
Plan your visit →
5. Agrodome – Farmyard Fun with a Kiwi Twist
Perfect for animal lovers and curious kids, Agrodome offers a hands-on farm experience where the whole family can get stuck in. From watching sheep get shorn to bottle-feeding baby animals and meeting some seriously fluffy alpacas, it’s a chance to connect with rural New Zealand in a fun way.
Don’t miss the farm tour, where you’ll hop on a tractor and roll through fields, meet more animals, and even sample fresh honey straight from the hive. It’s the kind of family-friendly outdoor adventure that’s both wholesome and unforgettable—rain or shine.
- Rainy day-friendly
- Interactive and educational
- Meet lambs, cows, alpacas & more
- Great for all ages
Find out more →
Ready for Your Next Family-Friendly Outdoor Adventure?
There’s no shortage of family-friendly outdoor adventure in Rotorua—just endless ways to explore, learn, laugh, and connect. Whether you’re gliding through ancient forests, rolling downhill, or hanging with farm animals, these experiences are the kind of memory-makers that stick.
Grab your crew, pack your sense of fun, and get ready for a family-friendly outdoor adventure you’ll never forget. Rotorua’s wild side is waiting.