Adventure Tours

From mountain biking through giant redwoods to rafting down volcanic rivers—Rotorua is an adventure playground

Adventure in Every Direction

Rotorua's volcanic landscape creates the perfect backdrop for adrenaline-pumping adventures. Towering California redwoods, crystal-clear lakes, rushing rivers, and dramatic volcanic terrain offer endless opportunities for outdoor thrills.

Whether you're seeking heart-racing excitement or gentle nature exploration, Rotorua's adventure activities cater to all fitness levels and comfort zones.

Redwoods Forest: Mountain Biking & Treetop Adventures

Rotorua's Whakarewarewa Forest—known locally as "The Redwoods"—is home to towering California redwood trees planted over a century ago. Today, this magical forest offers some of the world's best mountain biking, with over 130 kilometers of purpose-built trails winding through the ancient giants.

Trails range from easy family-friendly paths to technical expert-level tracks. Beginners can cruise along gentle grade trails, while advanced riders tackle jumps, drops, and technical features. Bike rentals and guided tours are readily available, and the forest's volcanic soil provides perfect drainage year-round—no mud-slogging here.

For a more serene experience, the Redwoods Treewalk features 23 suspension bridges connecting platforms 12 meters above the forest floor. The 700-meter elevated walkway is magical during the day, but truly spectacular at night when hundreds of colored lights illuminate the giant trees, creating an otherworldly experience suitable for all ages.

Sunlight filtering through towering redwood trees on forest walking trails

Water Adventures: From Thrilling Rapids to Peaceful Lakes

The Kaituna River offers one of the world's most thrilling white water rafting experiences—including the highest commercially rafted waterfall at 7 meters. Plunging over Tutea Falls is an adrenaline rush like no other, and navigating Grade 5 rapids through volcanic gorges tests even experienced rafters. Don't worry—expert guides and full safety equipment ensure everyone stays safe while getting soaked.

For a gentler water experience, Rotorua's volcanic lakes offer pristine paddling. Lake Tarawera—a crater lake formed by the 1886 eruption—features crystal-clear waters perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The lake hides a secret: the Hot Water Beach, where geothermal springs bubble up through the lake floor, creating warm pockets perfect for a mid-paddle soak.

Sunrise and sunset tours are particularly magical, when mist rises off the water and Mount Tarawera's volcanic cone creates a dramatic backdrop. Guided tours share Māori legends of the area, while self-guided rentals let you explore at your own pace.

Kayaking on Lake Tarawera at sunset with Mount Tarawera in background

Skyline Adventures & Unique Rotorua Experiences

Skyline Rotorua gondola whisks you 487 meters up Mount Ngongotaha for breathtaking 180-degree views over Lake Rotorua and the city. At the summit, gravity-powered luge carts let you zoom down three different tracks—from the gentle scenic route to the advanced track with tight corners and steep drops. It's family-friendly fun with lake views from every turn.

Rotorua is the birthplace of ZORB—the experience of rolling downhill inside a giant transparent ball. Choose between dry ZORB (strapped in and tumbling head over heels) or wet ZORB (free-moving with warm water sloshing around). It's completely unique to New Zealand and guaranteed to trigger both terror and laughter in equal measure.

Rotorua Canopy Tours combines ziplines with conservation. This eco-adventure takes you through ancient native forest on six ziplines, swing bridges, and treetop platforms. Guides share conservation efforts to protect native birds while you soar through the canopy—it's adventure with purpose.

For off-road thrills, quad bike and ATV tours tackle volcanic terrain, muddy tracks, and steep hills. Whether ripping through farmland on a quad bike or exploring volcanic landscapes by 4WD, these tours get you deep into Rotorua's rugged backcountry with instruction and safety gear provided.

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