Need a quiet space to unwind? A secret hideaway from the restless kids? How about a little spot of nature or a picnic-perfect park?
Lots of public places and spaces are easily accessible in Rotorua, and most are free. From the recently renovated (and caffeinated!) Te Aka Mauri Rotorua Library, to Sulphur Bay Wildlife Refuge, to many of our 18 lakes. Don’t forget our most-loved Whakarewarewa Forest, the geothermal Kuirau Park in the heart of town, and the rolling, tree-lined hills of Centennial Park. Such perfect antidotes if you’ve been on the go.
The listings below will provide you with some great ideas and many won’t cost a thing!
Lake Ōkāreka Walkway
Public Places & Spaces
Lake Ōkāreka is popular with water skiers, swimmers, boaties and walkers.
Lake Ōkataina
Public Places & Spaces
Lake Ōkataina is closed for one month effective from October 1st 2023. The name Ōkataina means "The lake of laughter", a shortened form of the original name Te Moana-i-kataina-a-Te Rangitakaroro.
Hinehopu Reserve
Public Places & Spaces, East
At the eastern end of Lake Rotoiti is Hinehopu Reserve, well-known for shoreline fishing.
Guy Roe Reserve
Public Places & Spaces, South
A popular location for fishing, picnics and boat activities.
Boyes Beach & Park
Public Places & Spaces, East
Boyes Beach is one of the largest beaches on Lake Ōkāreka and a great attraction during the warmer months, and popular for swimming, fishing and picnicking.
Lake Tikitapu
Public Places & Spaces, East
Lake Tikitapu, affectionately known as Blue Lake, is a local favourite and well known to regular visitors to Rotorua.
Lake Tarawera
Public Places & Spaces
One of the largest lakes in New Zealand, the picturesque Lake Tarawera (meaning ‘burnt spear’), is a firm favourite with boaties, and famous for the size and condition of its rainbow trout.
Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods) Mountain Biking
Public Places & Spaces, South
Whakarewarewa Forest, also known as the Redwoods, is a mecca for mountain bikers, with more than 180km of trails winding their way through native and exotic forest.
Sulphur Bay Wildlife Refuge
Public Places & Spaces
Explore an amazing geothermal area where threatened bird populations make their home.
Rotorua Museum: Outside the Walls Historical Government Gardens Tours
Public Places & Spaces
Discover Rotorua's rich culture, volatile landscape and legendary figures in this must-do FREE tour around the famous Rotorua Museum and Government Gardens.
Lake Rerewhakaaitu
Public Places & Spaces, South
Camping, picnicking, swimming and boating are all popular recreational activities at Lake Rerewhakaaitu Recreational Reserve.