Western Heights Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Western Heights
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.
Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
Walk, cycle or ride a horse through this picturesque forest filled with a magnificent array of trees from around the world.
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.
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.
Mitai Maori Village
For a great insight into Māori customs and way of life, sign up for this magical, entertaining and educational cultural experience.
Activities
Hobbiton Day Tour from Rotorua with lunch at Hobbiton
Rotorua Tour from Auckland with Optional Extras
Rotorua: Lake Rotorua Cruise with Buffet Dining Option
Our pick of the best Western Heights Hotel Deals
Rydges Rotorua
"It is what you would expect, decently clean and good service"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
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
Prince's Gate Hotel
"Good breakfast and staff polite and professional."
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
"Great location and across the road from Eat Street. Property has everything you need and a fantastic bar to relax in at the end of the day with fireplace"
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Marsden Stay Rotorua
"Cleaning of rooms don't happen everyday was not informed and the heat pump wasn't not working in room 41, room 42 the TV was not working, and the staff mentioned room 43 was lucky to have it clean by housekeeping staff, overall experience was poor"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Western Heights
Fairy Springs
While visiting Fairy Springs, you might make a stop by sights like Skyline Rotorua and Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park.
Mangakakahi
Though Mangakakahi may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Kuirau Park and Eat Street.
Koutu
While visiting Koutu, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Rotorua and Tribal Lights Cultural Theatre.
Kawaha Point
River views, spas and restaurants highlight some of the notable features of Kawaha Point. Make a stop by Lake Rotorua while you're exploring.
Utuhina
While Utuhina isn't home to many top sights, Rotorua Central Mall and Kuirau Park are some notable places to visit nearby.
Ohinemutu
Spas and lake views are notable features of Ohinemutu. You might consider stopping by Lake Rotorua while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
