Rotorua Accommodation
Rotorua is halfway between Auckland and Taupo and is the accommodation centre for the region that has a unique culture and atmosphere. A slight scent of sulphur hangs in the air and steam floats out from the ground. Rotorua is the capital of Maori culture for the North Island and the City is surrounded by boiling mud pools and geothermal activity. Seventy five percent of the population are Maori and they have been sharing their heritage for over 500 years. Visits to geothermal parks and Maraes are within easy reach and there are many cultural performances and traditions to experience. Rotorua is situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua which is famous for its trout fishing. There are a total of sixteen lakes in the area and they are of all different colours and sizes. The rivers that flow from these lakes offer some of the best fly fishing in the north island. Private tours and helicopter transfers are also available for a touch of luxury. Kayaking, waterskiing and fishing are popular pastimes and the walks around the lakes are spectacular. Whakarewarewa forest has a terrific choice of mountain biking trails which undulate through redwood plantations and native forest by way of purpose built tracks. Entry is free and the trails provide hours of fun for beginners through to advanced cyclists. Cycle hire is available throughout the City. Spa treatments using mud packs and thermal hot pool soaks are among the best in the country. Action junkies will enjoy a ride down the luge at Mount Ngongotahu, or a sky dive over the City. White water rafting tours take place on three separate rivers with varying degrees of gradient and jet boat rides run on the lakes and rivers as well. There are wildlife parks where you can pat a lion cub, sheep shearing performances and even a buried village to explore which was covered in the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption. The streets of the City are beautifully paved and full of parks and gardens. There are a wide choice of dining options with some lovely cafes and restaurants around the waterfront parkland. Rotorua has won the most beautiful city award 4 times in the past 10 years.
Accommodation is easy to find and there are hotels and motels all along the main road into the City Centre. There are some beautiful retreats and lodges surrounding the City, many of them award winning and offering a total holiday package.
Tudor architecture defines the style of the city with the most notable the Polynesian spa. There are 26 separate pools and spas of various temperatures and the views are amazing. Spa treatments using mud packs and thermal hot pool soaks are among the best in the country and a must try before you go. There are Maori healing and wellness clinics throughout the Rotorua region. Excellent Rotorua can be found in local hotels, apartments and resorts.