Check out our family-friendly guide for things to do in Rotorua these school holidays!
The school holidays are the perfect time to embark on an unforgettable adventure with your kids, and there’s no better place to do it than Rotorua! Located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, our city offers a unique blend of adventure, adrenaline, fun, and relaxation for the whole family. We’ve got a few of Rotorua’s must-visit attractions and activities to kick-start your family adventure:
Soar through the trees with Canopy Tours
Start your Rotorua adventure by experiencing the breathtaking beauty of a native virgin forest with Canopy Tours. This eco-tourism company offers an awe-inspiring zipline experience that will have you and your kids flying through the treetops. Marvel at the stunning forest views, feed native birds, and create lasting memories as you conquer your fear of heights together. Canopy Tours provides a safe and educational experience that will leave you feeling more connected to nature.
Explore the geothermal wonders of Te Puia
No visit to Rotorua is complete without experiencing our famous geothermal vistas, and Te Puia is the perfect place to do just that. Explore this geothermal park, home to bubbling mud pools, a kiwi conservation programme, and the iconic Pohutu Geyser. Immerse yourself in Māori culture with their cultural performance and visit the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, where you can see master carvers and weavers in action. Te Puia offers a unique opportunity to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region as well as experience natural geothermal wonders.
Mountain bike through the forest
For the adventure enthusiasts in your family, Rotorua offers an extensive network of mountain biking trails. You can hire bikes from Mountain Bike Rotorua and embark on an adrenaline-fueled journey through the lush Whakarewarewa Forest. With trails suitable for all skill levels, it’s easy to choose the route that best suits your family’s abilities. Feel the rush as you navigate twists, turns, and jumps – it’s an adventure that will leave your family with unforgettable memories!
Have fun at Skyline
Get ready for some thrilling family fun at Skyline Rotorua! Hop aboard the gondola and enjoy a scenic ride to the top of Mount Ngongotaha. Once you reach the summit, unleash your inner speed demon on the luge tracks. The luge offers an exhilarating experience with different track options available – meaning you can choose the level of excitement that suits you on the day. Skyline also offers stunning panoramic views of the city, providing the perfect backdrop for some great family photos.
Take a break at Secret Spot
After all the adventure and excitement, unwind at Secret Spot Hot Tubs. Hidden beside the Whakarewarewa Forest, we offer a range of relaxing experiences, including cedar hot tubs amongst native ferns and free Shinny Dip foot soaks. Immerse yourself in the warm, soothing waters of the Hemo Spring and receive craft drinks delivered to you at the push of a button. The tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty of Secret Spot provide the a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to recharge and share stories of the day’s adventures.
We’ve got free live music on Saturday afternoons (weather-permitting) and giant lawn games to keep the little ones entertained!
Rotorua is a great destination for a memorable family holiday. From soaring through the trees with Canopy Tours to exploring the geothermal wonders of Te Puia, there’s something for everyone in Rotorua. Mountain biking through the forest, enjoying the thrills at Skyline Rotorua, and unwinding at Secret Spot complete an action-packed itinerary for an unforgettable holiday!
If you’re looking for more things to do in Rotorua these school holidays, check out our other blog posts or take a look at the Rotorua NZ website.
