There’s no better place to be in the outdoors during winter than Rotorua. While many people prefer to hibernate during the cool months, we think winter is the time to feel alive. Brave the elements and wrap up warm to experience nature in all it’s beauty.
There are so many things to do in Rotorua in winter. The city’s beautiful forests, lakes and nature-based experiences make it the ultimate destination to get outside. And, its geothermal energy means that there’s always a naturally heated hot pool waiting for you after a day of exploring.
Top things to do in Rotorua in winter:
- Hot soak at Polynesian Spa
- Feel alive mountain biking through forest
- Native forest tour at Rotorua Canopy Tours
- Fill your tummy at Eat Streat
- Warm up with a walk
- Check out the 3D Trick Art Gallery
- See the geysers by night at Te Puia
- Discover the Buried Village
1. Hot soak at Polynesian Spa
It goes without saying that Rotorua’s hot pools are a real treat in winter time, especially at Polynesian Spa. It’s a pretty unique way to recharge weary bodies after a morning exploring the great outdoors. If you’re after relaxing things to do in Rotorua in winter you can’t go past the beautiful, naturally heated hot pools.
Book a zip and soak combo with Rotorua Canopy Tours and Polynesian Spa and save.
2. Feel alive mountain biking through forest
Winter means lush, emerald-green forests and trails without the crowds! With over 100km of trails to explore just minutes from the city. It’s no wonder Rotorua is developing a reputation as one of the best places to mountain bike in the world. There are a lot of different Rotorua mountain biking tracks to suit all abilities and it’s one of the most active things to do in Rotorua in winter.
3. Native forest tour at Rotorua Canopy Tours
Rotorua Canopy Tours is an amazing outdoor activity during the winter months. Winter is simply stunning in the native forest, with every fern, tree and plant at its lush green best. If you want fresh air in your lungs and an adventure you won’t forget in a hurry this is the activity for you.
This adventure is one of the things to do in Rotorua in winter that you won’t want to miss! And there are two incredible tours to choose from. Their award-winning Original Canopy Tour or their even higher and longer Ultimate Canopy Tour.
Photo: Fly through the lush rainforest with Rotorua Canopy Tours during winter. credit: Rotorua Canopy Tours
4. Fill your tummy at Eat Streat
Rotorua has undergone a resurgence in its restaurant scene which is driven by the high standards that are set on Eat Streat. Walk down the street and find a great bar or restaurant, warm the body up and taste what Rotorua has to offer. The thermally heated footpath will keep you warm while you enjoy the vibrant dining atmosphere.
5. Warm up with a walk
In winter, it’s a bit too cold to jump into a lake, but why not take a scenic walk around one? One of our favourite things to do in Rotorua in winter is the many amazing walks in the region. Follow the Lake Rotorua walking trail, visiting Sulphur Point and the Redwood Forest and see Rotorua at its geothermal best.
Photo: Walk around one of the lakes in Rotorua during winter for some beautiful scenery.
6. Check out the 3D Trick Art Gallery
Check out the indoor 3D Trick Art Gallery. Let your creativity run wild, have a laugh and take photos till your hearts content with over 50 pieces of life-size and super realistic murals inspired by New Zealand. You also don’t need to prebook. So, if the weather turns on you at the last minute this is a great option for things to do in Rotorua in winter.
7. See the Geysers by night at Te Puia
One of Rotorua’s newest experiences is the Geyser By Night. A multi-sensory and interactive experience you need to see. Guided by torchlight, you will begin your journey into Te Puia exploring the valley and visiting many of our world-renowned landmarks. Hear the stories of the past and feel the beauty of the world-famous Pōhutu Geyser, the largest geyser in the southern hemisphere!
8. Discover Rotorua’s Buried Village
Visit the Buried Village of Te Wairoa to learn about the history and the devastating 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera. The Buried Village is one of New Zealand’s most visited historic sites! Explore the archaeological site and walk the nature trails learning the stories of the past.
Photo: Buried Village is an incredible history lesson into the devastating 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera. credit: Get Your Guide
This geothermal city really does makes for the ultimate winter weekend away with great options for things to do in Rotorua in winter. Immerse yourself in nature with a forest canopy tour, a walk around the lake, or a morning of mountain biking followed with a soak in a naturally heated hot pool – bliss!
