Rotorua, New Zealand
Travelers Digest

Rotorua Tourism Information

 About Rotorua
Rotorua - one of the most famous destinations in New Zealand. Sitting on top of the most active thermals in the country it has a long history of drawing visitors of around the globe. From the first visual explosion to the last, it is an awesome place. The strong acid aroma of the sulfur is evidently and clearing present throughout the area and adds to its prehistoric origins.

scent of sulphur in the air, and at nearby geothermal hotspots there are spouting geysers, acrid-smelling mud pools bubbling and belching, and warm geothermal pools and ponds that create a kaleidoscope of colour. Rotorua's water organ and art gallery are worth a look (the art gallery building was a spa at the turn of the 19th century and is a site in itself.

Rotorua , located at the heart of the North Island of New Zealand, in the aptly named 'Bay of Plenty' region. Rotorua covers 261,700 hectares and has a population of almost 70,000 people. Rotorua , also part of the Central Volcanic Plateau. Rotorua is 297 metres above sea level. The city is also a center of Maori culture: Attend a Maori hangi (feast and concert) and tour the Ohineutu Maori village. Near the main entrance to Whaka is the Maori Arts and Craft Institute, a replica of a traditional Maori village (wood-carving and weaving demonstrations). 

 Attractions of Rotorua
The heartland of New Zealand, spiritual home to the Maori and host to some of the world's most incredible earth forces - Rotorua boasts an array of other icon experiences which together encapsulate the spirit of this remarkable country. There are a number of "must see and do" experiences - attractions and adventures that have become synonymous with Rotorua - for that matter New Zealand. Sightseeing takes new meaning in Rotorua - there is so much to see and do in such close proximity to the city centre. Within minutes of town - you can be in a giant Redwood grove - on a farm - amidst native forest, Trout sanctuary or wildlife reserve. 

Other attractions include flightseeing, the Agrodome (sheep-shearing displays, including a stage show that reminded us of a beauty pageant), Rainbow Trout Springs (trout, native birds and animals), a "hovershuttle" (small hovercraft that make trips across Lake Rotoiti) and two large mazes (one of hedges, the other an incredible three-dimensional wooden maze that has to be seen to be believed).

 Rotorua – Heartland of Maori Culture :
Rotorua, the heartland of New Zealand's Maori culture. Enveloping warmth, a proud spirit, a deep sense of history and a quick humour - you'll find all these qualities in your experiences with Maori culture. It's the sensation we call manaakitanga.

The Te Arawa people of Rotorua were New Zealand's first visitor guides, leading the way to the natural wonders that have been part of their home for more than 600 years. Their welcoming tradition has been carried on from generation to generation - and you'll find it expressed in Rotorua with true warmth and energy.

 Rotorua :Challenge your limits 
If you're looking for adrenaline-pumping action, Rotorua is the place to be. Opportunities come face to face with Maori culture abound in Rotorua - in performances and in expertly conceived displays, and in your encounters with the descendants of the original Te Arawa tribes. Our awesome natural setting provides thrills and adventure that will take you right to the brink.

Here you can run, slip and slide down the scree slope of an extinct volcano. Race along luge tracks down a mountain side - or take a more scenic route. Throw yourself from bungy towers, Rotorua style. Hurl yourself down white water rapids by raft or sledge, and try out the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the southern hemisphere. 

There are great forest trails for mountain biking or hiking - you'll see why Rotorua has become a mecca for mountain bikers. Take your chance to spy from the sky by helicopter, biplane, or floatplane - and maybe land on a dormant volcano - or an active one! Maybe even jump right out - try tandem skydiving! Of course, you can take in more leisurely pursuits - but we think you'll be tempted. Rotorua's range of adventure activities offers something for everyone. Whether it's a safe sight seeing you're after, or full-on heart-pumping action - Rotorua is sure to challenge your limits!

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