Holdens Bay Travel Guide
Rotorua
Visit Holdens Bay
Popular places to visit
Polynesian Spa
Set among the serene Government Gardens on the shores of Lake Rotorua, these hot pools are an idyllic place to relax and unwind.
Skyline Rotorua
Take in the splendid scenery during a gondola ride and jump in a luge cart to navigate your way down the exciting mountain track.
Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
Walk, cycle or ride a horse through this picturesque forest filled with a magnificent array of trees from around the world.
Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park
Learn about New Zealand’s most famous bird as you explore this comprehensive wildlife park, complete with a lake full of trout and walk through aviaries.
Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village
You can find out about the history of Rotorua with a trip to Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.
Things to do
Cultural Experience & Seasonal Māori Cuisine at Te Pā Tū
Hobbiton Day Tour from Rotorua with lunch at Hobbiton
Rotorua Tour from Auckland with Optional Extras
Top hotels in Holdens Bay
Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort
"The staff were great, l also appreciated the location, hot tubs and room facilities. A good restaurant menu at reasonable prices and we thoroughly enjoyed our meals. The only improvements would be for one of the pools to be heated and better TV channel coverage but neither spoilt our stay."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Pullman Rotorua
"Quick and easy check in. Modern hotel with a very large room (king with lake view). Only parking option is valet so be prepared to pay for valet upon arrival. Within easy walking distance to more restaurants than you can visit. Disappointed that there wasn't a pool. Didn't like that price for breakfast ..."
Reviewed on 5 May 2026
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
"Staff were very friendly, the room was spacious and styles beautifully"
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Rydges Rotorua
"A wonderful stay, very helpful friendly staff. Easy parking and FANTASTIC breakfast buffet, had the most option of different food in any breakfast buffet we have had, highly recommend"
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Prince's Gate Hotel
"The staff were friendly and helpful. The onsite restaurant was great. The sauna and hot tubs were wonderful. Sandeep Kaur was especially helpful and pleasant. All in all a great stay"
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
"A great but short stay enjoyable 😷😎"
Reviewed on 26 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Holdens Bay
Hannahs Bay
While there might not be top attractions in Hannahs Bay, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Government Gardens and Polynesian Spa.
Owhata
If you're spending some time in Owhata, Lake Rotorua and Haiku Pathway are top sights worth seeing.
Lynmore
When in Lynmore, you can plan a visit to Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest and Polynesian Spa, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Ngapuna
While Ngapuna may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Polynesian Spa and Government Gardens.
Inner City
If you're spending some time in Inner City, Rotorua Night Market and Tamaki Maori Village are top sights worth seeing.
Fenton Street
You'll love the luxurious spas in Fenton Street, and you might want to stick around to check out Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre, a top place to visit.
