Planning your perfect Summer adventure in Rotorua

There is no place on Earth quite like Rotorua…

Where culture, history, and natural wonders blend so seamlessly. And there is no better place to explore during the warm New Zealand summer. Not just a place to pause en route to your next destination, Rotorua itself is worthy of an extended holiday. No matter your age or interests, there is much to experience. If you are one of the lucky ones visiting Rotorua for your next summer holiday, we recommend these adventures to make your time memorable indeed. 

Immerse yourself in the Polynesian Spa 

On the picturesque shores of peaceful Lake Rotorua is an authentic Polynesian Spa, where 28 natural mineral pools draw visitors to their steamy setting for their promise of relaxation, rejuvenation and—if you make it on a clear evening—truly breath-taking sunsets. The pools are fed by two natural springs with different restorative properties. While the water from the Priest Spring is said to soothe sore muscles, the water from the Rachel Spring works wonders for your skin.

No matter who your travel companions are, there will be an experience to suit you at the Polynesian Spa. Some pools are family-friendly while others are restricted to those 12 years and over. Book a private spa experience if you wish, or complement your soak with your choice of treatment at the day spa.

We recommend the 'mud indulgence' therapy which uses Rotorua’s world-famous geothermal mud to treat your skin to a mask and massage like no other. 

Dinner at The Regent Room 

No holiday is complete without at least one outstanding meal—and The Regent Room Restaurant & Bar is just the place.

Enjoy chilled champagne, a selection of tapas, or a light Caesar salad in the courtyard while you listen to the fountain cascading into the heated pool below. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the meals here are fresh, delicious, and expertly prepared.

There is an outstanding plant-based menu which many regulars adore, and a seven-course degustation that will satisfy even the most critical of tastebuds.

An enviable wine list, comprehensive drinks menu, and dedicated choices for children’s menu ensure there is an option for every person and every occasion. 

Fly and land on Mt Tarawera 

Many of our guests here at The Regent of Rotorua remark that their favoured way to appreciate the lay of the land is to see it from high above.

A scenic flight over Rotorua in summer will demonstrate just how diverse the Rotorua landscape is—from the towering trees to the bubbling mud pools and the mesmerising lakes. A memorable experience is to take a helicopter flight to Mount Tarawera, where you can land on the spectacular slopes.

Your guide will take you on a captivating walking tour, introducing some fascinating geological features including the craters and valleys formed by the historic 1866 eruption.  

Go sailing on Lake Rotoiti 

On a warm summer’s day, board the luxury 53-foot catamaran Tiua for a day on the cool, fresh waters of Lake Rotoiti.

If you want to fill your time with adventure and exploration, you can fish off the boat for trout or dive off for a swim through shadowy caves. The crew would be delighted to show you the ropes and let you help sail the yacht, giving you a quick lesson on moving the sails to propel the yacht through the tranquil waters.

Alternatively, you can sit back and admire the sights from your comfortable spot on the spacious deck. A quintessential Kiwi BBQ lunch enjoyed while tucked away in one of the bays will be the cherry on top of what is bound to be a memorable day

Posted by Megan Garland on January 30, 2023