Rotorua - Bay of Plenty

A geothermal wonderland of boiling mud pools and spectacular geysers awaits visitors to Rotorua, a dream spot for sightseeing and a region steeped in Maori legend, history and culture.

Its landscape is a mix of lush fields that support a thriving agricultural industry and beautiful lakes, and it seems everywhere steam rises from the ground, hinting at the active world beneath. In 1886 that world exploded into action with the deadly eruption of Mt Tarawera, which destroyed the famed Pink and White Terraces, blanketed the countryside in ash and created many new geothermal features.

Marvel at the natural wonders of Te Puia and explore its thermal valley of geysers, streams of boiling water and hot mud pools and get an insight into Maori culture through performance and traditional carving, weaving and art all created on site.Read More..

The Agrodome is one of New Zealand’s most loved attractions and is a fun window into the farming culture with a sheep show, shearing and dog trials. Native flora and fauna is on display at Rainbow Springs Nature Park, including New Zealand’s national icon, the Kiwi, where a special Kiwi Encounter lets visitors see the nursery and hatchery for these endangered birds.

En route to Rotorua you will journey through the rolling green fields of the Waikato, one of New Zealand’s prime farming regions and home to the famous Hobbiton set where movie magic was made for the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The Waikato also houses the country’s most spectacular glowworm caves – venture into the Waitomo caves to marvel at the incredible limestone formations and enjoy a boat ride through the glowworm grotto.Close..