Hamurana Springs is so peaceful it literally made me cry, no joke. Tucked next to Lake Rotorua, this place is pure magic, where nature and culture blend for such a special experience. Entry is $18 per adult, but if you want to save a few bucks, book through BookMe, I got mine for $12 (highly recommend checking). The trail is an easy 700m loop, super flat and chill, but don’t be surprised if you take way longer than expected. I thought I’d be in and out in 30 minutes max, but somehow, I spent two hours just wandering, completely mesmerized by the crystal-clear springs, vibrant plants, and towering redwoods. It’s honestly breathtaking, and watching the ducks and swans glide through the water makes it even better.

This spot is sacred to the Ngāti Rangiwewehi people, so no swimming allowed, but with the water sitting at a brisk 11°C, you probably wouldn’t want to anyway haha. Pack a picnic blanket, your camera, and just soak it all in—this place is a dream!

Okere Falls is absolutely stunning, especially from the lookout. Now, if you’re rafting down them, you might describe them a little differently (cue the screams haha), but that’s a whole other story! It's actually the world's highest commercially rafted waterfall.

This spot is super popular for whitewater rafting and kayaking, but even if you’re keeping your feet dry, it’s so worth a visit. It’s a quick 500m walk along the Okere Falls Trail to reach the lookout, where you’ll get different vantage points of the falls. If you hang around for a bit, you’ll probably catch some rafting groups sending it down, which is always entertaining.

For a closer look, follow the path down and you’ll walk through narrow carved caves and tunnels, all covered in lush green moss, such a cool little section of the track. From there, you can either head back the way you came (500m return) or continue the full 2.4km loop for more of the beautiful scenery.

If you’re looking for a heart-racing adventure, Kaitiaki Adventures White Water Rafting in Rotorua will have you feeling like you're on the edge of your seat (and maybe even your stomach!) From the moment you hit the water, it’s an exhilarating experience that’s hard to beat. Led by local guides who have an intimate knowledge of the land, this tour mixes pure adrenaline with a deep respect for Māori culture, making it not just thrilling but meaningful too.

You’ll tackle the Tūtea Falls, the world's tallest commercially rafted waterfall at 7 meters tall, it’s a seriously wild ride and flipping your raft is definitely on the cards.  But it’s not all just about the drops. You also get the chance to swim down a 2-meter waterfall, where the currents make you feel the full force of nature. And for those craving even more excitement, you can take it up a notch with a sledging experience, where you’ll ride the rapids not in a raft, but on a bodyboard. It’s definitely one for the adventure junkies. 

The experience is priced at $139 for adults, but be sure to check the BOOKME app for deals and discounts that can save you some cash!

Rotorua is such a random place, it’s the kind of town where you can be walking through a lush redwood forest one minute, then suddenly stumble upon a geothermal hot spot in the middle of town the next. That’s exactly what Kuirau Park Footbaths are like. Located right in the heart of Rotorua, the footbaths are free, knee-deep pools where you can chill out and soak your feet in naturally heated mineral waters. Whether you want to sit in the shade or catch some sun, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.

The park is named after a mythical girl, and while some areas are boiling hot and fenced off for safety, the footbaths are nice and relaxing. On top of that, the park has sports fields, picnic areas, and even a farmers’ market on Saturdays, so there’s plenty to enjoy.

While you're in the town center of Rotorua, definitely take some time to wander around Government Gardens, where you’ll find Rachel Spring Whangapipiro, a deep, hot spring that’s pretty cool to check out. The spring is rich in minerals, and its warm waters bubble up naturally, adding to Rotorua’s unique geothermal vibe. As you stroll around, you’ll also pass some really cool sculptures and the historic Memorial Bridge, which adds to the charm of the area. It’s a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty, plus it’s right in the heart of the town, so it’s an easy stop if you’re exploring Rotorua.

Secret Spot Hot Tubs Rotorua is the ultimate place for some peaceful self-care or a romantic getaway. I absolutely loved the sense of seclusion here, unlike most hot pools in Rotorua, which can get crowded with tourists, these private cedar tubs are surrounded by trees and ferns, creating a super intimate vibe. Nestled in the stunning Whakarewarewa Forest, you can relax and soak while listening to the calming sounds of Puarenga Stream nearby.

At $43 per adult, you get your own hot tub for 45 minutes, and I highly recommend booking in the evening. There's something magical about stargazing while you unwind in the warmth of the water, surrounded by nature. It’s definitely the perfect spot to escape, recharge, and enjoy a little peace and quiet.