How to Spend THREE DAYS in Rotorua, New Zealand: The Best 3-Day Itinerary

Looking for the perfect 3-day Rotorua itinerary? You’re right where you need to be!

Rotorua is New Zealand’s geothermal and cultural heart, where steaming landscapes, bubbling mud pools, and Māori traditions meet lush forests, adventure activities, and soothing hot springs. With so much to do—from rafting waterfalls to ziplining through ancient trees—it can feel impossible to fit it all in. That’s where I can help! 

After living in New Zealand and spending plenty of time exploring Rotorua, I’ve crafted the perfect three-day itinerary to show you the best of it all. From adrenaline-pumping thrills to peaceful forest walks and delicious local food, this itinerary has a bit of everything to make your trip unforgettable. Here’s how to make it happen!

Itinerary Overview

Known as New Zealand’s geothermal and cultural heart, Rotorua is a place where steaming parks, erupting geysers, and vibrant Māori traditions sit side by side with lush forests and soothing hot springs. Over three days, you’ll strike the perfect balance between adrenaline-filled adventures—like whitewater rafting and ziplining—and slower moments spent wandering beneath towering Redwoods or soaking in mineral-rich pools. 

Along the way, there are plenty of great food stops to keep you fueled, from casual Kiwi comfort food to shared plates and local drinks. Getting around is easy, too! Many tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off, the central city is walkable, and taxis or shuttles cover nearby attractions. You can also rent a car if you’re exploring further afield.

Follow this 3-day Rotorua itinerary to make the most of your trip:

Day 1: Start with a half-day geothermal parks tour to Wai-O-Tapu and Waimangu, exploring bubbling mud pools, geysers, and steaming lakes. Ride the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views and lunch at Stratosfare, then end the day with a cultural evening at Te Pā Tū featuring a Powhiri, Haka, and traditional Hāngī feast.

Day 2: Enjoy a Parisian-style breakfast at Le Cafe de Paris before choosing between whitewater rafting on the Kaituna River or rolling downhill in a ZORB. Refuel at the historic Pig & Whistle Pub, then spend the afternoon soaking in mud baths and sulfur spas at Hell’s Gate. Finish with dinner and live music along Tutanekai Street and Eat Streat, plus a stop for ice cream at Lady Jane’s.

Day 3: Grab a classic Kiwi pie at Patrick’s Boutique Bakery before ziplining through a 500-year-old forest canopy. Stop for hearty comfort food at Number 8 Wire, then wander among towering Redwoods at Whakarewarewa Forest, or try the elevated Treewalk. End your trip with dinner at Urban Gusto, followed by a magical glowworm kayaking tour under the stars.

Day 1

Morning – Explore the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Instead of roller coasters and Ferris wheels, Rotorua’s version of an amusement park is powered by nature itself. This half-day geothermal parks tour takes you to two of the region’s most famous volcanic landscapes, giving you the chance to see bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and steaming lakes all in one morning. 

It all starts around 8 am, giving you enough time to enjoy breakfast at your hotel or grab a quick bite at a nearby café before being picked up right at your door. 

At Wai-O-Tapu, you’ll have about an hour to explore a landscape alive with bubbling mud pools, steaming hot springs, and the neon-green Devil’s Bath, a pool so bright it looks unreal. Just after, you’ll join the crowd to watch the Lady Knox Geyser erupt, sending water soaring up to 20 meters (66 feet) high in a dramatic daily display. 

The tour continues to Waimangu Volcanic Valley, where you’ll walk through surreal volcanic scenery unlike anywhere else in the world. Here you’ll find the steaming Frying Pan Lake, the largest hot spring on the planet, and the dazzling Inferno Crater Lake, whose deep blue waters shimmer against a backdrop of rising steam, making it an unforgettable sight.

This small-group experience lasts about five hours, so you’ll get dropped off around 1 pm with your morning packed full of Rotorua’s most iconic geothermal wonders. It’s the perfect way to dive straight into the region’s volcanic heart before shifting gears with a scenic gondola ride and a relaxed lunch overlooking the lake!

Afternoon/Lunch – Ride the Skyline Gondola and Luge

Ready to see Rotorua from above? Just a 5-minute drive from downtown, the Skyline Gondola glides up 900 meters (2,950 feet), giving you sweeping views of Lake Rotorua and the town below without the effort of a steep hike. The enclosed cabins accommodate up to eight people, allowing your entire group to enjoy the ride together without worrying about heights or feeling exposed, as on a chairlift—it’s smooth, comfortable, and relaxing.

At the top, you’ll find a mix of adrenaline and leisure. Adventure seekers can take on the luge track, a gravity-fueled ride that combines the fun of go-karts with the thrill of tobogganing. There are also ziplines, the Skyswing, mountain bike trails, and nature walks if you want to keep exploring. The luge is a standout—it’s fast, exciting, and addictive, with your first run often serving as a practice round before you really pick up speed.

Of course, this is also the perfect place to stop for lunch. The Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar is my top recommendation, not only for its delicious food but also for its unbeatable views. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase Lake Rotorua and the rolling countryside, making it a memorable spot to relax and refuel before the afternoon’s activities.

The Skyline Gondola operates daily from 9 am to 8:30 pm, with the luge and other attractions running on slightly different schedules. Be sure to check the most up-to-date hours here when planning your visit.

Dinner/Evening – Immerse yourself in Māori culture

No trip to Rotorua would be complete without experiencing Māori culture, and this evening tour at Te Pā Tū is one of the most authentic ways to do it. Rotorua has one of the largest Māori populations in New Zealand, and this is the best place in the country to immerse yourself in their traditions, stories, and hospitality.

The evening begins with a traditional Powhiri, a welcome ceremony that makes you feel like an honored guest stepping into the village. From there, you’ll move through a series of interactive experiences with village members dressed in traditional attire. 

You’ll see demonstrations of tools, learn about games that were once used for both fun and skill-building, and hear stories that have been passed down for generations. The powerful Haka performance is a highlight—watching the warriors perform it up close is something you’ll never forget!

Dinner is just as memorable. You’ll be treated to a Hāngī feast, a meal cooked underground using heated stones in the earth. The result is tender, smoky meats and vegetables with a flavor you can’t get any other way. It’s a communal experience too, enjoyed alongside other visitors in a setting that feels both warm and celebratory.

Tour options typically start between 5 pm and 7:30 pm, so you can choose the time that works best for your evening plans. With hotel transport, performances, and dinner included, this is truly a cultural highlight of Rotorua—it’s no wonder this tour has over a THOUSAND five-star reviews!

Related Read: Still need a hotel? My where to stay in Rotorua guide has advice on the best areas and great hotels for all budgets!

Day 2

Breakfast – Le Café de Paris

Kick off your second day in Rotorua with a hearty breakfast before the morning’s activities. A local favorite is Le Cafe de Paris, a cozy spot in central Rotorua with a relaxed Parisian vibe. The menu is full of French classics like crepes, almond croissants, and rich coffee that make it easy to linger a little longer. 

The friendly owners prepare everything fresh to order, so breakfast here is as much about slowing down and enjoying the atmosphere as it is about the food. Le Cafe de Paris is open Tuesday through Saturday from 7:30 am to 3 pm (opening at 8 am on Saturdays).

Morning – Choose your thrills

We have a couple of different options this morning, depending on the level of adrenaline you’re going for. If you’re craving a heart-pounding adventure, whitewater rafting will have you plunging down the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall. But if you’re after something a little more lighthearted (and hilarious), Rotorua’s iconic ZORB experience is just as unforgettable.

Experience the thrills of whitewater rafting

Rotorua is one of the best places in New Zealand to try whitewater rafting, thanks to the famous Kaituna River. Just 20 minutes outside of town, this river is home to Tutea Falls—the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall at 7 meters (23 feet). On this guided rafting tour, you’ll get the rare chance to paddle right over it!

The adventure lasts 2.5 hours, with about an hour spent on the water itself. Things start gently with calm stretches and smaller rapids to get you warmed up, but it isn’t long before you’re dropping over the falls in a rush of adrenaline. For even more thrills, you can even leap off a 3-meter (10-foot) cliff afterward!

Safety is top priority here, so you’ll be geared up with a wetsuit, helmet, and life jacket, and led by experienced river guides. Professional photos are available afterward if you’d like proof of your epic plunge. 

We recommend the 10:30 am departure, which meets up near the launch point for rafting. Just remember to wear a swimsuit, and pack a towel and dry clothes—you’ll definitely get wet! It’s no surprise this tour has racked up hundreds of glowing five-star reviews from travelers who call it the ultimate Rotorua adventure.

Roll around in a ZORB

For a more low-key but equally fun option, grab your swimsuit and head to the hillside where Rotorua’s world-famous ZORB was invented back in 1994. This one-of-a-kind activity lets you roll downhill inside a giant inflatable ball filled with warm water—it’s part waterslide, part rollercoaster, and completely ridiculous in the best way.

You can choose from three different tracks: a straight downhill run, a zig-zag course, or a twisting track that will leave you laughing the whole way down. Each ride lasts less than a minute, but the fun is addictive, and you can go multiple times if you want to try them all. 

Between runs, the staff keep things moving and the energy high, so the fun never really stops. You can hop into the hot tubs, grab a snack, or just chill out while you wait for your next ride.

This experience lasts about an hour, though you can stretch it out longer if you make use of the hot tubs. The park is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, but it’s best to go early enough to finish before lunch and be ready for the rest of the day. 

It’s also a great pick for families with kids over 5 years old, offering plenty of laughs without being extreme. Best of all, it’s only a quick 9-minute drive or taxi ride from Le Cafe de Paris, making it super convenient to slot into your morning plans.

Lunch – Pig & Whistle, Historic Pub

After returning to town from your morning thrills, it’s time to refuel, and The Pig & Whistle Historic Pub is the perfect spot. Set inside a 1940 building that once served as Rotorua’s police station, this pub is as full of history as it is hearty meals. You’ll even notice Māori design elements worked into the architecture, which was unusual for the era, and adds to the charm.

On the menu, you’ll find comfort food classics like burgers, pot pies, fish and chips, lamb shank, and brisket—generous portions that always hit the spot. Pair your meal with a cold pint from the bar, and you’ve got the ultimate midday break. The Pig & Whistle is open daily from 11:30 am until late, making it a convenient and tasty stop before heading into your afternoon plans.

Afternoon – Enjoy a geothermal Mud Bath

One of the most unique ways to spend an afternoon in Rotorua is at Hell’s Gate geothermal park, where dramatic landscapes meet cultural traditions and relaxation. Located about a 15-minute drive from town, it’s easy to reach by taxi or rental car, and with plenty of departure times available, we recommend booking this mud bath experience for around 2–3 pm so you have time to enjoy lunch before heading over.

Your visit begins with a geothermal walk that takes you past steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and otherworldly terrain that shows off the raw power beneath Rotorua’s surface. I chose the guided option, which included fascinating insight into the area’s history, Māori legends, and natural features, but if you’d rather go at your own pace, there’s also a self-guided option available. 

Along the way, you can try your hand at traditional Māori carving in the carving house, adding a hands-on cultural touch to the experience. After exploring the geothermal reserve, it’s time to unwind. Slip into the mineral-rich mud baths for a restorative soak, then rinse off in the warm sulfur spas. The combination leaves your skin silky smooth and your muscles completely relaxed. 

Whether you’re carving, exploring, or soaking, Hell’s Gate delivers an afternoon that’s equal parts cultural discovery and pure relaxation. It’s the kind of place where you can learn something new, feel completely rejuvenated, and leave with memories that stick long after your trip ends!

Dinner/Evening – Explore Tutanekai Street and Eat Streat

After a full day of adventure and relaxation, spend the evening exploring Rotorua’s lively dining and nightlife scene. The heart of it all is Tutanekai Street and the famous Eat Streat, a hub of restaurants, pubs, and cafes with a covered walkway that’s even heated for year-round outdoor dining. Here you’ll find everything from international flavors to hearty Kiwi fare, plus plenty of spots for a late-night drink.

For dinner, Atticus Finch is a local favorite, offering a stylish tapas-style menu with dishes meant for sharing—think dumplings, lamb, fresh fish, and pavlova for dessert. Another great option nearby is Ambrosia, where the retractable ceiling makes dining feel airy and relaxed, and on Fridays and Saturdays, live music adds to the atmosphere.

If you’re craving something sweet afterward, Lady Jane’s Ice Cream Parlor on Eat Streat is a Rotorua institution. Their famous Danish cone, a giant waffle cone piled high with ice cream, whipped cream, and sprinkles, is the perfect way to end the night. 

And if your visit happens to fall on a Thursday, don’t miss the Rotorua Night Market along Tutanekai Street. Running from 5–9 pm, it’s filled with food trucks, live music, and local artisans, giving you a taste of the community vibe that makes Rotorua so special. Just keep in mind it’s weather-dependent, so check the Rotorua Night Market Facebook page here for updates.

Related Read: If you find yourself with some extra time, see my top things to do in Rotorua blog for even more fun activities!

Day 3

Breakfast – Patrick’s Boutique Bakery

You’ve likely heard of the “New Zealand Pie”—they are classic! Having an NZ pie for breakfast is a rite of passage, so head to Patrick’s Boutique Bakery for arguably the best pies in the country.

Located in central Rotorua, this is an easy way to grab breakfast before heading out on an adventure. I love how down-to-earth this bakery is—the food truly speaks for itself! I can’t pick a favorite NZ pie, so just go with whatever sounds good. You really can’t go wrong!

Patrick’s Boutique Bakery is open 7 am to 2 pm, Monday through Friday, so if your visit falls on the weekend, plan to stop by earlier in the week.

Morning – Ziplining

One of the most exciting ways to kick off your final day in Rotorua is with this 3-hour ziplining adventure through an ancient 500-year-old forest. It’s only about a 10-minute drive from breakfast, making it a super easy next stop. Not only do you get to soar above the treetops, but you’ll also spend the morning surrounded by one of the most beautiful native landscapes in New Zealand.

Booking a slot between 8:30 am and 10 am ensures you’ll finish by around 1 pm with your morning full of thrills. With demand always high, it’s best to reserve early to secure your preferred time. 

The course itself begins on platforms perched 21 meters (72 feet) above the forest floor, gradually building in excitement as you work your way across six different ziplines. The longest stretches 220 meters (722 feet), giving you plenty of time to soak up the views and enjoy the feeling of flying through the canopy.

Between ziplines, you’ll cross suspension bridges and walk along forest trails that give you a closer look at the incredible native ecosystem that makes this setting so unique.

With round-trip transportation from Rotorua and professional photos included, all you need to do is enjoy the ride and relive the memories later. Blending heart-pounding adrenaline with stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder this award-winning zipline tour has earned thousands of glowing five-star reviews!

Lunch – Number 8 wire

After an adventurous morning, head back to town for lunch at Number 8 wire, a casual Rotorua eatery known for hearty Kiwi comfort food and generous portions. The relaxed, unfussy vibe makes it a perfect spot to recharge, with quick service that gets you back out exploring without a long wait.

On the menu, you’ll find crowd-pleasers like juicy burgers, loaded fries piled high with toppings, and flavorful grilled meats. It’s the kind of satisfying, no-fuss meal that hits the spot in the middle of a busy day, with plenty of choices to suit all appetites. Whether you go for something classic or more indulgent, you’ll leave full and ready for the afternoon ahead.

Afternoon – Walk in the Whakarewarewa Forest

After lunch, it’s time to stretch your legs in one of Rotorua’s most iconic natural spaces, the Whakarewarewa Forest—known locally as the Redwoods. Just a 5-minute drive from downtown, this forest feels worlds away with its towering trees and 160 kilometers (100 miles) of walking and biking trails. The mix of California Redwoods, Douglas Fir, Eucalyptus, and Larch creates a canopy that’s both diverse and awe-inspiring.

Plan to spend around two hours here, or longer if you’d like to tackle one of the more extensive trails. The Redwood Memorial Grove Walk is a beautiful short option, winding past a thermal pond and through larch trees on a 2-kilometer (1.25-mile) path dedicated to New Zealand Forest Servicemen who died in World War II. 

If you’re craving more of a challenge, the Tokorangi Pa Loop climbs 500 meters (1,640 feet) above sea level over 11.5 kilometers (7.1 miles), rewarding you with sweeping views of Mt. Ngongotaha and Lake Rotorua.

Another must-do is the Treewalk, a series of 28 suspension bridges that take you high into the Redwoods’ canopy. It’s designed to leave the environment undisturbed, so the trees continue to grow freely while you get the rare chance to walk at their level. The Treewalk takes about 40 minutes and, along the way, keep an eye out for information boards sharing the forest’s history, myths, and legends.

Dinner – Urban Gusto

Start wrapping up your final evening in Rotorua with dinner at Urban Gusto, a modern spot that combines a lively atmosphere with a menu full of comfort favorites. Known for its wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and seasonal mains, this is a place where the food feels both stylish and approachable—perfect for winding down after a busy day of exploring.

Pair your meal with a glass of New Zealand’s best or a local craft brew, and you’ve got the makings of a relaxed yet memorable dinner. With its upbeat vibe and consistently excellent dishes, Urban Gusto is a great way to toast to your Rotorua adventures. Making reservations here is recommended, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend. 

Evening – Kayak through magical glowworm caves

There’s no better way to cap off three days in Rotorua than with a night out on the water. This glowworm kayaking tour takes you onto a peaceful lake just outside the city, where you’ll paddle into hidden caves that come alive with thousands of tiny glowing lights.

Tours last around three hours, and with lots of departure times available from 5 pm to 10:30 pm, you can easily pick the one that works best for your schedule. Even better, the pickup point at the Rotorua Information Centre is just a five-minute walk from dinner in the city center, making it a seamless transition into your evening adventure.

Your evening begins with pickup and a short drive past the Redwoods to the lake. Once there, you’ll be outfitted with all the gear you need, followed by a safety briefing and quick paddling instructions—no prior experience necessary.

As the sun sets, you’ll glide along the shoreline, soaking up the last light of the day before following your guide into the caves. Inside, the glowworms sparkle against the dark rock like a living galaxy, and if the skies are clear, the return paddle gives you a second light show with the Milky Way overhead.

Small group sizes and experienced guides keep the trip safe and personal, whether you’re joining as a solo traveler, couple, or group of friends. From the peaceful water to the dazzling natural light displays, this experience feels like stepping into another world. It’s the perfect way to close out three unforgettable days in Rotorua!

Where to Stay in Rotorua

If you’re staying three days in Rotorua, you’ll need somewhere comfy to land! What’s great about this area is all the choices for accommodations – whether you are backpacking on a budget or looking for a luxurious place to call home for a few nights. If these hotels are still available when you’re ready to book, they are my top picks!

Luxury – $$$

Rydges Rotorua is a fantastic upscale option right on the edge of the Redwoods Forest with sweeping views over the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Reserve. This hotel blends comfort with convenience, making it especially appealing for families and couples alike. Rooms are modern, air-conditioned, and come with plenty of entertainment options.

Prices typically range from $130 to $580 NZD per night, with breakfast packages available. For a stay that combines comfort, fun, and a touch of luxury, this hotel is hard to beat. Check prices and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Alpin Motel & Conference Centre is a wonderful mid-range choice in Whakarewarewa, offering spacious one-bedroom apartments that each come with their own private outdoor hot tub—perfect for soaking under the stars after a day of exploring. Guests can also take advantage of a heated swimming pool, traditional sauna, free laundry facilities, and a BBQ area for casual outdoor dining. 

Rates typically range from $120 to $310 NZD per night. You can secure your stay at Alpin Motel here!

Budget – $

For those wanting a central stay that won’t break the bank, Sudima Lake Rotorua offers a solid balance of comfort, convenience, and affordability. Set right on the lakefront and next to the Polynesian Spa, the location couldn’t be better for exploring both the CBD and Rotorua’s thermal attractions. 

Rooms are simple yet well-equipped with tea and coffee facilities, TVs, and free Wi-Fi. The property also includes thoughtful extras, such as an outdoor pool, guest laundry, and on-site dining at the Okareka Restaurant and Bar.

Prices usually range from $150 to $460 NZD per night and can be booked in advance on Booking.com.

Thanks for reading!

Three days is the perfect amount of time in Rotorua. You’ll get your adrenaline pumping on ziplines and whitewater rafting, then relax in a geothermal mud bath – what more could you want?

If you need help planning the rest of your travels, check out my other North Island blogs. After traveling to nearly every corner of this island, I have plenty of resources to help you plan an epic trip. Here are a few related blogs to get you started:

Where to Stay in Auckland: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

10 BEST Things to do in Auckland, NZ

6 Best Things to do in Taupo, New Zealand