Located on Lake Rotorua on New Zealand’s North Island, Rotorua is a hot spot for volcanic landscapes, hot springs, outdoor recreation and Māori culture. If you are looking for a destination where you can spend most of your time outdoors, Rotorua is for you.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Although Rotorua Airport is the closest airport to the destination, there may not be many options for direct flights. Most visitors fly into Auckland Airport on major airlines from various destinations then take the 45-minute Air New Zealand flight to Rotorua Airport. While exploring the destination, visitors can get around by car, bus, walking or biking — Rotorua is known as a mountain biking destination.
LODGING
Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel
Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel’s goal is to share the New Zealand story with travelers. All nine guestrooms are designed to deliver a meaningful experience for guests.
171 Kawaha Point Road, Kawaha Point,
Rotorua, New Zealand, tel 64 7 346 3602
Hana Lodge
Located in the hills of Rotorua, Hana Lodge offers travelers a relaxing retreat to unwind in the tranquil location. Even though the lodge lies in a rural area, it’s still only a 15-minute drive from the city and attractions.
415 Hamurana Road, Ngongotahā,
Rotorua, New Zealand, tel 64 7 332 2222
For a boutique bed-and-breakfast experience, book Koura Lodge. The lakeside accommodation is just a quick drive to city center and many of Rotorua’s well-known attractions.
209 Kawaha Point Road, Kawaha Point,
Rotorua, New Zealand, tel 64 7 348 5868
DINING
Atticus Finch
Speakeasy meets metropolitan bistro at Atticus Finch. The menu is designed for guests to pass around and share the delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Gather with friends and linger over lively conversations.
3010/1106 Tutanekai St., Rotorua, New Zealand,
tel 64 7 460 0400
The Fainting Goat
The Fainting Goat is a classy gastropub that serves pizza by the foot, shared plates and more. After opening in late 2020, The Fainting Goat still managed to make a name for itself during a difficult time.
1154 Tutanekai St., Rotorua, New Zealand,
tel 64 7 348 8411
Stratosfare Restaurant
Not only does Stratosfare serve delicious food and beverages prepared by talented chefs, it also offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Rotorua. Book the Premium Dining Experience for a guaranteed window seat.
178 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua, New
Zealand, tel 64 7 347 0027
ATTRACTIONS
Polynesian Spa
Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua sits nature’s gift, Polynesian Spa. The geothermal bathing and soul-soothing retreat offers therapeutic benefits from the calming waters.
1000 Hinemoa St., Lakeside, Rotorua, New
Zealand, tel 64 7 348 1328
Velocity Valley
Take a ride on the wild side and spend the day taking on the thrilling attractions at Velocity Valley. From free falling to a Superman swing and more, this park is an adrenaline junkie’s dream.
1335 Paradise Valley Road, Ngongotahā,
Ngongotahā Valley, New Zealand,
tel 64 7 357 4747
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Connect with nature at the world’s youngest geothermal valley, Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Explore the volcanic craters, hot springs, geothermal features and more.
587 Waimangu Road, Rotorua, New Zealand,
tel 64 7 366 6137
Read This Next

Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
May 7, 2025Welcome Spring with The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park’s Picnic in the Park
There’s a lovely alchemy that takes place when you mix sunshine and a leafy park. Add a picnic basket full of goodies and you’re on your way to a memorable outdoor escape. At The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, guests can embrace springtime in the city with a gourmet picnic-to-go lunch in Central Park, featuring fresh fare thoughtfully curated by Executive Chef Andrew Burriesci.
Sponsored Content
Explore Europe with the Best River Cruise Line this November
Experience Europe from a fresh perspective with AmaWaterways, just awarded Best River Cruise Line by Global Traveler for the third consecutive year. Step aboard, unpack once and embark on a cruise through iconic capital cities and awe-inspiring landscapes. AmaWaterways' ships, which accommodate an average of just 156 guests, offer a spacious yet intimate setting. Throughout your journey, you'll enjoy exquisite farm-to-table dining; unparalleled service; and a variety of included excursions, from city tours for gentle walkers to thrilling bike rides along the rivers.
May 2025
May 7, 2025LEED Certifies a Growing List of Properties Worldwide
Surrounded by more than 200 acres of protected forest in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, Heritance Kandalama was the world’s first resort to be LEED certified, a feat accomplished in 2000 just two years after the U.S. Green Building Council launched the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification program. The 5-star property treats and repurposes 100 percent of its wastewater and effluents and works to achieve its goal of zero waste reaching landfill, among other sustainability efforts.
Daily
May 7, 20257 New York City Rooftop Bars to Add to Your Summer Plans
Warmer weather is upon us! Enjoy drinks and bites alfresco at these fabulous rooftop venues in New York City.
Sponsored Content
Sail Unique with Explora Journeys
SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.
eFlyer Reviews
May 7, 2025ZURiTO Review
Basque cuisine, known for its bold flavors and refined preparation, is wildly popular in cities across Europe, but has been slower to appear in the United States. However, Boston has just added its first Basque restaurant.
eFlyer Lead
May 7, 2025Chaos at Newark Liberty International Airport: What’s Causing Delays?
In the last week, Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey endured many major delays and cancellations, with predictions these may continue into next week should various issues and factors persist. The airport first suffered from a series of system outages April 28, in which air traffic control screens went dark for between 60 and 90 seconds.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination
Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.
Daily
May 7, 2025Introducing Aman’s First Global Wellness Advisor: Novak Djokovic
Aman welcomes tennis legend and 24 Grand Slam titleholder Novak Djokovic as its first Global Wellness Advisor. Djokovic will bring his unrivaled athleticism and dedication to wellbeing to Aman’s global properties through a series of wellness programs called Longevity Pathways.
ShareThis