Rotorua & Taupō

The geothermal heart of New Zealand, Rotorua is, quite literally, a hotspot of activity.  From bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers, steaming craters and redwood forests to ziplining, luging, zorbing and mountain-biking, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant, sulphur-scented town. Rotorua is also one of the best regions in the country to experience Māori history and culture, with an array of immersive and fascinating tours in and around Rotorua. Set along the shore of Lake Rotorua, with another 17 lakes in the region, there are also plenty of opportunities for fishing and water sports.

Just an hour’s drive south of Rotorua, Taupo sits beside a vast lake large enough to fit Singapore within its shores. An ancient volcanic caldera, Lake Taupo is surrounded by pristine landscapes with the mountains of Tongariro National Park on the horizon.  A short drive from town, the Waikato River – the country’s longest river – feeds the mighty Huka Falls where the river suddenly narrows forcing the water into a plunging cascade powerful enough to fill an Olympic size pool in under 15 seconds.