Search Rotorua hotels

Top reasons to visit Rotorua

• Thermal Wonders: Discover Rotorua's renowned hot springs and geothermal parks, offering a unique natural experience.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Māori culture at local villages, showcasing traditional customs and performances.
• Adventure Activities: Thrill-seekers can enjoy exciting water rafting and zip-lining experiences amidst stunning landscapes.
• Scenic Views: Take a scenic gondola ride for breathtaking views over Lake Rotorua and the surrounding mountains.
• Relaxing Spas: Unwind at local spas, offering rejuvenating treatments in a serene environment.

Find great hotels in Rotorua

Rotorua offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, from cosy motels to charming bed and breakfasts, catering to every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking adventure, a family getaway, or a business trip, you’ll find plenty of hotels that provide the perfect base to explore the stunning Bay of Plenty region. Experience the unique charm and hospitality of Rotorua with a variety of hotel services tailored to enhance your stay.

• Rydges Rotorua: Rydges Rotorua is a 4.5-star hotel renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and luxury accommodations. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, this property is situated in the heart of Rotorua, making it an excellent choice for families and business travellers alike. The hotel offers a range of amenities tailored for children, including complimentary cribs and specially priced breakfast options. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms and the welcoming service, creating a relaxing environment for all visitors.
• Millennium Hotel Rotorua: Embracing a hot spring theme, Millennium Hotel Rotorua is a 4.5-star hotel that boasts a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. Nestled in Rotorua, this property features access to nearby natural hot springs, providing a unique relaxation experience. Ideal for adventure seekers, the hotel offers a variety of activities such as boat tours, kayaking, and hiking in the surrounding areas. With a focus on adventure and recreation, this accommodation is perfect for those looking to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the comfort of a luxury hotel.
• Novotel Rotorua Lakeside: Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, a 4.5-star hotel, stands out for its family-oriented amenities and stunning lakeside views. This property caters to both leisure and business travellers, offering features such as complimentary cribs and child-friendly breakfast options. Guests can unwind at the on-site pool, making it an ideal spot for families. The hotel's central location in Rotorua also provides easy access to local attractions, ensuring a memorable stay for guests of all ages.

Where to stay in Rotorua

Rotorua, nestled in the stunning Bay of Plenty Region, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. This getaway destination is perfect for romantic escapes or family-friendly fun, with friendly locals and breathtaking scenery. Explore the vibrant shopping scene and indulge in relaxation at local spas. Nearby attractions promise recreation and luxury, making Rotorua a must-visit for anyone looking to discover the heart of New Zealand.

• Lake Okareka: Nestled just a short drive from Rotorua, Lake Okareka offers a serene escape for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. This picturesque suburb is ideal for romantic getaways, with its tranquil lake, sandy beaches, and lush parks perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. While visitor numbers peak in the summer months of December to February, the area maintains a steady flow of tourists year-round. Popular activities include kayaking, fishing, and indulging in spa treatments, making it a versatile destination for relaxation and adventure alike.
• Whakarewarewa: A vibrant suburb located near Rotorua, Whakarewarewa is renowned for its unique geothermal landscapes and cultural significance. Families and couples alike are drawn to its outdoor recreational areas, shopping centres, and beautiful parks. The area offers a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a convenient base for exploring the nearby forest and lakes. As with Lake Okareka, visitor numbers peak during the summer, but Whakarewarewa remains an inviting spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy various activities.
• Owhata: Just a stone’s throw from Rotorua, Owhata presents a charming suburban experience that combines outdoor pursuits with local shopping options. Its scenic parks and proximity to the lake and beach make it a popular choice for couples seeking a romantic retreat, as well as families looking for fun activities. The suburb maintains a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, particularly during the warmer months. With recreational areas and shopping centres nearby, Owhata is an excellent base for those wanting to explore the Bay of Plenty region while enjoying a peaceful atmosphere.

Things to do in and around Rotorua

Shopping

In Rotorua, visit the local shops along Tutanekai Street for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out Bayfair Shopping Centre, located around 30 minutes away, offering a wide range of retail options, cafes, and dining experiences.

Recreation

In Rotorua, the Polynesian Spa offers a range of geothermal pools and luxurious spa treatments, set against beautiful lake views. For a unique experience, try the Arawa Spa, where you can enjoy traditional Māori healing therapies and relax in serene surroundings, enhancing your wellness journey.

Adventure

At Skyline Rotorua, enjoy breathtaking views as you ride the gondola, followed by thrilling luge rides. For an adrenaline rush, head to Adrenalin Forest, where you can navigate challenging zip lines and ropes courses in a stunning outdoor setting, located 46.7km from Rotorua.

Nightlife

Rotorua's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of experiences. Enjoy a local brew at the Pig & Whistle, or dance the night away at The Court. For a unique cultural experience, visit Tamaki Maori Village to immerse yourself in traditional performances and feasting under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rotorua

To save money on your Rotorua trip, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May and August to September for lower accommodation rates. Enjoy free attractions like the Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest and Government Gardens. Use public transport options like buses or even cycle to explore the area. Book your hotel about a month in advance and look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Remember that Tuesdays tend to offer cheaper rates, while Saturdays are pricier. Combining your accommodation with flights through package deals can also help you save.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in 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 in 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 in Rotorua is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Rotorua is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences such as budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find 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 Rotorua hotel accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Rotorua

Rotorua offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and relaxation for a romantic getaway. Key attractions include cultural villages, soothing hot springs, and the scenic cable car gondola. Don't miss the Rotorua Museum, explore various local attractions, and enjoy the stunning views around Lake Rotorua. This vibrant region caters to those seeking cultural experiences, wellness, and outdoor fun.

• Skyline Rotorua: Experience the thrill of a gondola ride offering breathtaking views of Rotorua and its stunning landscapes. With outdoor activities like luge rides, this attraction is ideal for families and adventure seekers looking for a day of excitement and fun.
• Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest: Immerse yourself in the beauty of towering redwoods while exploring an extensive network of walking and mountain biking trails. This forest provides a unique outdoor adventure experience, perfect for those who love nature and the great outdoors.
• Mitai Maori Village: Engage with the rich culture and traditions of the Māori people. Enjoy a captivating cultural performance, traditional feasting, and a glimpse into the customs that shape this vibrant community.

Best time to go to Rotorua

The best time to visit Rotorua can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Rotorua falls in January and February. February has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature in Rotorua falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
July	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rotorua

Getting to ROTorua is convenient with several nearby airports. Rotorua Regional Airport (ROT) is located 6.4km from the city and has excellent accommodation options such as the Pullman Rotorua, Silver Fern Rotorua Suites & Spa, and Regal Palms Resort, all within a short distance. Hamilton International Airport (HLZ) is 85.3km away, with notable hotels including Huntington Stables Retreat and Novotel Tainui Hamilton. For those considering Napier Airport (NPE), located 157.7km from Rotorua, Swiss-Belhotel Napier and The County Hotel are great nearby options. Each hotel offers easy access to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth travel experience.