Lake Rotorua Tours and Activities

Lake Rotorua featuring a lake or waterhole and a park as well as a small group of people
Lake Rotorua
Lake Rotorua which includes windsurfing and a lake or waterhole
Lake Rotorua which includes a lake or waterhole, landscape views and a garden
Lake Rotorua featuring a lake or waterhole as well as a small group of people


One of the largest lakes on the North Island, this location offers an abundance of exciting activities as well as a fascinating geological and cultural history.

Visit Lake Rotorua and you will find no shortage of things to do. Swim in the calm, clear waters by the city’s edge or set off on foot in search of your own private bay. Kayak to mystical Mokoia Island or sit back and relax on a boat cruise.

With a surface area of approximately 54 hectares (133 acres), this is the most expansive of 16 lakes in the Rotorua region. It was formed in a crater following the eruption of a volcano around 200,000 years ago and remains a site of constant geothermal activity. Notice the milky hue of the blue water this is a result of high sulphur levels.

Amble through the Government Gardens just east of the town centre and look out across the lake. See if you can spot people fishing from boats or on the lake’s edge. Rainbow, brown and brook trout are frequently caught here.

Organise a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard trip or simply rent the equipment and explore independently. Paddle to hot pools and secluded coves and head to the small Mokoia Island in the centre of the lake. Maori folklore says that two young lovers from tribes based at either end of the lake met here on the island having long been forbidden from seeing each other. Today tourists stop here to soak in the natural hot pool.

If you want for a more luxurious vessel, try one of the spacious cruise boats that operate excursions on the lake. Spot pretty birds and fish from the deck as you eat lunch on board.

The southern end of Lake Rotorua borders the city with which it shares its name. Book trips and tours of the lake online or from lakefront operators upon arrival.

Plan a trip to see Lake Rotorua

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Ramada Resort By Wyndham Rotorua Marama
Luxury Golf-Side Lodge K Lodge Rotorua
On The Point - Lake Rotorua

Tours & day trips

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Adventure & outdoor

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Private & custom tours

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Water activities

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Spa & wellness

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Popular places to visit


Top Lake Rotorua Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Arawa Park Hotel

Arawa Park Hotel

4 out of 5
272 Fenton St, Rotorua
Arawa Park Hotel
Prince's Gate Hotel

Prince's Gate Hotel

4.5 out of 5
1057 Arawa Street, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Prince's Gate Hotel
On The Point - Lake Rotorua

On The Point - Lake Rotorua

5 out of 5
214 Kawaha Point Road, Rotorua
On The Point - Lake Rotorua
Marsden Stay Rotorua

Marsden Stay Rotorua

3 out of 5
273 Fenton St, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Marsden Stay Rotorua
Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Millennium Hotel Rotorua

4.5 out of 5
1270 Hinemaru Street, Rotorua
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Koura Lodge

Koura Lodge

5 out of 5
209 Kawaha Point Road, Kawaha Point, Rotorua
Koura Lodge
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside

Novotel Rotorua Lakeside

4.5 out of 5
9-11 Tutanekai St, P O Box 348, Rotorua
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
JetPark Hotel Rotorua

JetPark Hotel Rotorua

4 out of 5
237 Fenton Street, Corner Victoria Street, Rotorua
JetPark Hotel Rotorua
Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel

Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel

5 out of 5
171 Kawaha Point Road, Kawaha Point, Rotorua
Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Rotorua

Experience the best of Lake Rotorua with a range of activities including relaxing spa treatments and thrilling golf. Explore the stunning sightseeing spots, enjoy mountain biking trails, and discover friendly attractions that showcase the region's natural beauty. Don't miss the local tours offering unique insights into Rotorua's vibrant culture and landscapes, making it a perfect destination for adventure and relaxation.

Shopping

In Lake Rotorua, visit Eat Street, a vibrant public market just 6.4km away, offering a lively atmosphere. The Redwoods Gift Shop & Visitor Centre is also 11.3km away, perfect for unique souvenirs. If you’re up for a drive, Bayfair Shopping Centre is 211.3km away, featuring diverse shopping and entertainment.

Recreation

Experience ultimate relaxation at Polynesian Spa, where rejuvenating thermal pools and soothing treatments await you, only 8.0km from Lake Rotorua. For outdoor enthusiasts, Hamurana Golf Course offers a stunning setting for a round of golf, just 4.8km away, while Agroventures provides thrilling activities and wellness vibes, also 4.8km from the lake.

Adventure

At Skyline Rotorua, enjoy breathtaking views as you ride the gondola and experience thrilling luge rides. DriftKartz offers an exhilarating karting experience on unique drift karts. Meanwhile, Waimarino Adventure Park has a range of water activities, perfect for a fun-filled day with family and friends.

Nightlife

Experience the thrill at Luge Rotorua, only 6.4km from the lake, where you can race down scenic tracks. For a taste of culture, head to Tribal Lights Cultural Theatre, also 6.4km away, for an enchanting evening. For family fun, Game On Activities offers excitement 33.8km away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lake Rotorua

Lake Rotorua in New Zealand offers a diverse range of attractions, including cultural villages, urban parks, and event venues that cater to those seeking cultural and outdoor experiences. Explore the mystical Lake Rotorua, the stunning shores of Lake Tarawera, and the picturesque Lake Rotoiti, perfect for family outings. Whether you're interested in rich heritage or enjoying nature, there's something for every traveller in this beautiful region.

  • Mitai Maori Village: Experience the rich culture of the Māori people at Mitai Maori Village. Enjoy traditional performances, storytelling, and a delicious hangi feast, all while immersing yourself in the vibrant cultural atmosphere located just 4.8km from Lake Rotorua.
  • Hamurana Springs: A serene oasis, Hamurana Springs offers stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for families, this scenic spot is ideal for relaxing strolls and picnics, with friendly locals always ready to welcome you, just 4.8km from the lake.
  • Rotorua Energy Events Centre: Situated 8.0km from Lake Rotorua, this modern venue caters to various business events and conferences. With state-of-the-art facilities, it’s an excellent choice for professional gatherings while still enjoying the stunning backdrop of Rotorua.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Rotorua

To save money on your visit to Lake Rotorua, consider travelling during the off-peak months of May and August to September, when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can help you secure better rates, especially if you're flexible with dates—Monday is the cheapest day to stay, while Saturday is the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to find the best deals by sorting prices from lowest to highest and consider package deals to combine your flights and activities for additional savings. Explore the area on foot to enjoy free activities and local sights.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Rotorua are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Lake Rotorua about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lake Rotorua is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Rotorua is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To discover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Lake Rotorua hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.