Rotorua is surrounded by beautiful places to see – here are some of our favourites for a weekend escape.
Tauranga
Surf, sand and beauty abounds here. There’s stately Georgian homes, an extinct volcano with scenic walking paths lots to see. There’s a scenic bridge over the harbour connecting Tauranga to Mount Mauganui, and the shore is dotted with great restaurants to try out.
Whakatāne
One of New Zealand’s most vibrant small towns, there’s opportunities here for an exciting historical and heritage tour including a look at a live volcano – from a safe distance. Try out Awakeri Rail Adventures – a quaint hobby railway with converted golf carts on a scenic track that’s heaps of fun.
Hamilton
Hamilton is a bustling town full of things to see and do. You can spend a whole day exploring the extensive Hamilton Gardens, which has a whole range of gorgeous themed gardens – from a traditional Japanese Garden to an Italian Renaissance re-creation. Visit the aikato Museum and marvel art and artefacts.
Napier
Napier’s picturesque streets showcase a lot of great public art from local sculptors, and the number of galleries and studios will please any culture lover. Visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand with its spectacular underwater tunnel and interactive encounter. For a spectacular walk try one of the tracks up to the lookout on Te Mata Peak for breathtaking views in every direction.
Taupo
Simply bursting with natural beauty, Taupo is a town that you can’t help but remember. The incredible crystal blue cascades of the Huka Falls is a scenic sight that will stay with you forever. For a surreal experience visit the incredible hot springs of Craters of the Moon reserve
Matamata
This charming town has plenty to offer and well-known for its rolling green hills, dairy farms and world famous thoroughbred horsesmost famous for being the site of Hobbiton from he Lord of the Rings films. Take a walk through the heart of the Shire and you’re sure to have a magical time.
