Luxury Travel to Rotorua and Taupo

Steaming mud pools, erupting geysers and Maori traditions all make Rotorua and Taupo a special area to visit – one that is distinctively unique to the rest of New Zealand.

You’re likely to smell the sulphur-rich geothermal playground of Rotorua before seeing it, with its endless volcanic pools bubbling throughout the city. This destination is one of the most popular tourist spots in the North Island thanks to its unique thermal activity and multitude of activities.

• Explore and wander around the assortment of geothermal parks.
• Venture into the native forests for hiking or mountain biking along numerous world-class trails.
• Soak up the scenery at one of the 18 freshwater lakes or tackle the swift river rapids in a raft.
• Get your adrenaline pumping with zip-lining, zorbing or even bungee jumping.
• Take inspiration from the locals and idly soak in the mineral-rich hot pools.

The region of Rotorua was revered by the Maori and it’s the perfect place to gain insight into this culture – from its many maraes (greeting houses) to sampling a traditional hangi feast, which is cooked in the steaming ground.

An hour’s drive south of Rotorua is its counterpart resort town, Taupo – resting on the northeastern shores of Australasia’s largest lake. Actually a volcano crater, the lake’s deep blue waters draw visitors with its idyllic swimming holes, reputable fishing and adventure sports. On a clear day, the views stretch out over the glassy water to the snowcapped volcanoes of Tongariro National Park in the distance. The country’s longest river, the Waikato, also flows out of here, crashing over the nearby and must-see Huka Falls.

• Paddle in one of the swimming holes of Lake Taupo.
• Try your hand at fishing on the banks of Waikato River.
• Enjoy a sunset cruise across Lake Taupo, with a refreshing tipple in hand.
• Set off on a walking route to the spectacular Huka Falls.
• Learn about the culture of the Maori by visiting Mine Bay to see the rock carvings.

A five-minute walk from the lake’s edge takes you to the compact, friendly settlement of Taupo, where New Zealand families gather en masse for their summer holidays.