Rotorua is a destination where nature’s raw energy meets rich Māori heritage, located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. From bubbling geothermal hot pools to mystical glowworm caves and rolling green farmlands, every corner of this region felt like entering another world.

A Cozy Stay at Holiday Inn Rotorua

My journey began at the Holiday Inn Rotorua, a perfect base with easy access to the city’s geothermal marvels. Waking up to the mist rising from nearby hot springs and the subtle scent of sulfur reminded me that I was in a place unlike any other.

Discovering the Enchanting Waitomo Glowworm Caverns

A short drive led me to the Waitomo Glowworm Caverns, where I embarked on a boat ride through a dark cave illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms. The glowing blue lights reflected off the water, making it feel like I was floating beneath a starry sky underground—a surreal, almost otherworldly experience.

Stepping Into a Fantasy at the Hobbiton Movie Set

As a devoted fan of The Lord of the Rings, visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata was a dream come true. Walking past the charming hobbit holes, the iconic Green Dragon Inn, and the rolling green hills felt like stepping into Middle-earth. Even if you’re not a Tolkien fan, the picturesque landscapes alone make this a must-visit spot!

Māori Culture at Te Puia: Hangi Dinner & Dance

Rotorua is the heart of Māori culture, and Te Puia offers an unforgettable experience.

• • I watched a traditional haka and poi performance, showcasing the power and grace of Māori storytelling.
  • Later, I indulged in a hangi dinner, where food is slow-cooked underground using heated stones. The smoky flavors of lamb, kumara (sweet potato), and corn gave me a true taste of New Zealand’s indigenous cuisine.

Stunning Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Park

No trip to Rotorua is complete without visiting Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, a geothermal marvel with colorful pools and geysers.

Top Highlights:

• • Painter’s Palette – A dreamlike collection of bubbling pools in shades of orange, yellow, and green.
  • Devil’s Pool – A mesmerizing neon-green pool that looks almost radioactive!
  • Lady Knox Geyser – Watching this geyser erupt high into the air was a thrilling reminder of the volcanic forces beneath Rotorua’s surface.

A Relaxing Soak at Waikite Valley Hot Springs

After a day of exploring, I unwound at the Waikite Valley Hot Springs, where natural mineral pools overlook rolling green hills. The warm, silky waters were the perfect way to recharge while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

1000s of Sheep & Rolling Farmlands

Driving through the Rotorua countryside felt like a classic New Zealand postcard—endless green fields, thousands of sheep, and hundreds of farms. Seeing newborn lambs bouncing through the pastures and shepherds guiding their flocks was a beautiful reminder of the country’s deep agricultural roots.