A Guide to a Road Trip Around Rotorua and Taupō, New Zealand

Modified on Tue, 12 Nov at 3:56 AM

A Guide to a Road Trip Around Rotorua and Taupō, New Zealand

The Rotorua and Taupō region in New Zealand's North Island offers some of the country's most diverse and spectacular natural wonders, from geothermal parks and Māori cultural experiences to the stunning landscapes surrounding Lake Taupō and the Tongariro National Park. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this road trip will guide you through the top destinations, attractions, and experiences in Rotorua and Taupō.

This guide will cover everything from must-see sites, recommended routes, practical tips, and some hidden gems along the way, perfect for a multi-day road trip.

Overview: Rotorua & Taupō Road Trip

Total Distance: Approx. 200 km (125 miles) one-way.
Duration: 3–5 days (depending on your pace and stops).
Starting Point: Rotorua
Ending Point: Taupō (or vice versa).

You’ll drive along scenic highways, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the geothermal wonders, lakes, forests, and adventure activities that define this part of the North Island. Rotorua is known for its thermal activity, Māori culture, and outdoor pursuits, while Taupō is celebrated for its beautiful lake, nearby mountains, and adventure sports.

Day 1: Explore Rotorua’s Geothermal Wonders and Māori Culture

1. Start in Rotorua

Rotorua is one of the most famous geothermal hotspots in the world. Begin your road trip here, taking time to explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture that the city has to offer.
Te Puia: Visit the Te Puia geothermal park to see the Pohutu Geyser in action. You’ll also experience traditional Māori culture through the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, where you can watch local artisans create stunning carvings and textiles.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: This vibrant geothermal park is home to some of the most striking features in Rotorua, including the Champagne Pool, the sulfuric Devil’s Bath, and the colourful Artist’s Palette. It’s one of the most picturesque geothermal parks in New Zealand.

2. Relax in Rotorua’s Thermal Pools

After exploring the geothermal attractions, relax in the Polynesian Spa. With its thermal mineral pools overlooking Lake Rotorua, it’s the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of sightseeing.

3. Māori Cultural Experience

Tamaki Māori Village or Mitai Māori Village: Both offer fantastic cultural experiences, including a traditional welcome ceremony, performances of Māori song and dance, and a hangi feast, where food is cooked in an underground oven.
Optional Evening: If you’re not doing a village experience, explore Rotorua’s nightlife or enjoy a quiet dinner by the lake.

Day 2: Rotorua to Taupō (Approx. 1 hour)

Start your drive south to Taupō, taking the scenic route along State Highway 5, a lush and scenic drive with plenty of opportunities to stop and stretch.

1. Stop at Whakarewarewa Forest

Whakarewarewa Forest: Just a short drive south of Rotorua, you can stop and walk through the Redwoods Forest, where you can explore the towering trees on walking tracks or zip-line through the forest canopy with Rotorua Canopy Tours.

2. Huka Falls

As you approach Taupō, stop at Huka Falls, one of New Zealand’s most popular natural attractions. The falls are located on the Waikato River and are known for their striking blue water and dramatic cascade. You can walk along the Huka Falls Walkway to get closer to the falls or take a thrilling jet boat ride to experience the power of the falls up close.

3. Taupō Town

Once you arrive in Taupō, explore the town itself. It’s a charming lakeside town with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and waterfront parks.

Taupō’s Waterfront: Enjoy a walk along the Lake Taupō waterfront and visit Taupō’s scenic lakefront parks for views of the lake and Mount Ruapehu in the distance.
Optional Activity: For those seeking adventure, consider a skydiving experience over Lake Taupō or a relaxing lake cruise to the Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings.

Day 3: Taupō and the Great Outdoors

1. Lake Taupō

Water Sports: Lake Taupō is a mecca for water activities. You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, or even try fishing for the lake's famous rainbow trout.
Taupō Bungy: If you're looking for a thrill, Taupō is home to New Zealand's highest bungy jump. Take a leap off the Waikato River to experience an adrenaline rush.

2. Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon: A short drive from Taupō, the Craters of the Moon geothermal area is a fascinating place to explore. Walk through a landscape of steaming vents, sulfuric pits, and volcanic craters. It’s an otherworldly experience.

3. Optional: Tongariro National Park (1 hour drive)

If you're up for a longer excursion, take a day trip from Taupō to Tongariro National Park (about an hour's drive), where you can explore Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe (the famous Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings), and Mount Ruapehu.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing: If you're an avid hiker, tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand’s most famous day hikes. The 19.4-kilometer (12-mile) track takes you through dramatic volcanic terrain, including craters, lava fields, and alpine meadows. It’s a challenging hike but rewards you with incredible views.
Skiing/Snowboarding: If you’re visiting in winter (June to October), Mount Ruapehu offers skiing and snowboarding at the Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields.

Day 4: Taupō to Rotorua via the Waimangu Volcanic Valley (Approx. 1.5 hours)

On your return journey to Rotorua, consider taking a slight detour to explore the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, located just south of Rotorua.

1. Waimangu Volcanic Valley

The Waimangu Volcanic Valley is a stunning geothermal reserve created by the eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886. The valley offers several walking tracks, including the Inferno Crater and the Frying Pan Lake. The area is lush with native vegetation, and the geothermal features are impressive.

2. Lake Rotomahana

After exploring the valley, take a boat tour on Lake Rotomahana to get closer to some of the area’s geothermal hot springs, or enjoy a quiet afternoon by the lake.

Day 5: Final Exploration and Departure

Before wrapping up your road trip, make time for any final stops or activities in Rotorua or Taupō.

1. Whakarewarewa Thermal Village (Optional)

If you haven’t visited a traditional Māori village yet, consider stopping by the Whakarewarewa Thermal Village in Rotorua. Here, you can witness how locals use the geothermal resources for cooking and bathing and experience authentic Māori culture and cuisine.

2. Relaxing Afternoon

You may want to take one last opportunity to relax in Rotorua's thermal pools or enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the Rotorua Museum or Government Gardens, a beautiful historic park near the city center.

3. Departure

Depending on your plans, you can either head back to Auckland (about 3 hours north) or continue exploring other parts of the North Island.

Practical Tips for Your Road Trip

Accommodation: Both Rotorua and Taupō offer a wide range of accommodation, from luxury resorts and motels to campgrounds and budget-friendly hostels. In Rotorua, consider staying near the lakefront for scenic views. Taupō’s town center offers easy access to restaurants and the lake.
Rental Cars: If you're renting a car, make sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and school holidays). Both Rotorua and Taupō are easily accessible by car and well-connected by State Highway 5.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (December to February) is the best time for outdoor activities, especially water sports, hiking, and exploring geothermal parks. Spring and autumn (September–November and March–May) are also great times to visit, with mild weather and fewer tourists. Winter (June–August) is ideal for skiing in Tongariro National Park but can be cold and wet in the geothermal areas.
Driving Notes: The roads between Rotorua and Taupō are well-maintained, but some stretches, especially around geothermal parks, can be narrow or winding. Always drive carefully, especially when near geothermal features where the road can be wet.

Conclusion

A road trip around Rotorua and Taupō offers a fantastic way to experience New Zealand's North Island. From Rotorua’s geothermal marvels and Māori culture to Taupō’s tranquil lake and adventure activities, there’s something for every traveller. Whether you want to hike across volcanic landscapes, soak in thermal pools, or enjoy breathtaking scenery, this road trip will leave you with unforgettable memories.