Whakarewarewa Travel Guide
Rotorua
Visit Whakarewarewa
Popular places to visit
Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
Walk, cycle or ride a horse through this picturesque forest filled with a magnificent array of trees from around the world.
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.
Te Puia New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute
Discover more about the Maori people and the traditional arts and crafts that are integral to their culture.
Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve
Learn about geothermal activity and how the Maori people have been living in these intense surroundings for hundreds of years.
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.
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 Whakarewarewa
Rydges Rotorua
"It is what you would expect, decently clean and good service"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Alpin Motel & Conference Centre
"It was nice stay but only thing shower gel did not fill up properly .. Thank you"
Reviewed on 19 Apr 2026
Greenview Motel
"Great location, basic but had everything we needed. Would stay again"
Reviewed on 12 Mar 2026
Imperial Hotel Rotorua
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
"Stayed one night at Millennium Rotorua with the family. The location is definitely the best part — very close to Polynesian Spa and only about a 10-minute walk to the shops and restaurants. But honestly, the hotel itself just felt like a basic room for a very high price. I really don’t understand ..."
Reviewed on 17 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
Other neighbourhoods around Whakarewarewa
Fenton Park
Though Fenton Park may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village and Te Puia New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.
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.
Glenholme
Though Glenholme may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Rotorua Central Mall and Rotorua Night Market.
Victoria
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Victoria and surrounding area, you can visit Rotorua Central Mall and Rotorua Night Market.
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.
