Located 221 kilometers from Auckland, Rotorua is a tourist city in the center of North Island. It is the Maori settlement and famous tourist destination with various outdoor activities. The annual temperature varies from the lowest 7 degrees in July to the warmest 24 degrees in January. There is not great day-night temperature difference in Rotorua. But it often rains, and May to August is the rainy season.
The name of Rotorua comes from Māori. The full name of Rotorua is Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe. ‘Roto’ means lake and ‘rua’ means two, so Rotorua means 'second lake'. Māori of the Te Arawa iwi initially settled in the area. During the New Zealand Wars of the 1860s, the lakeshore became a prominent site of skirmishes. In the 1883, people created a "special town district" to promote Rotorua's potential as a spa destination. In 1894, the Rotorua Branch railway and commencement of the Rotorua Express train was opened. So the town was connected to Auckland and the town was growing rapidly due to tourism from this time forward.
Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal activities, Maori culture and large number relaxation spas, like Wai-O-Tapu Thermal wonderland, Mitai Maori Village and Polynesian Spa. It boasts attractions and adventures to suit all ages and group sizes. Rich in history and culture, it offers you a unique and memorable travel experience.
There are top 4 reasons to visit Rotorua. Firstly, Rotorua is the heartland of Maori culture and its heritage. Along with the Maori people, it delivers you the best experience of the Maori world. Secondly, Rotorua is one of the most spectacular Geothermal wonderlands. You will be impressed and amazed by its geothermal features. Thirdly, centrally located in the North Island, Rotorua is well connected with other areas, which gives you the access to Rotorua from anywhere in New Zealand. Finally, Rotorua is world renowned for the spa facilities where you can get the best ever experience in thermal waters.