5 days in Rotorua & Taupo Itinerary

Surrounded by lakes and featuring impressive areas of geothermal landscape, the city of Rotorua offers an otherwordly landscape and a welcoming, peaceful environment, with the culture of the native Maori people very much in the foreground.

Start off your visit on the 20th (Tue): tour the pleasant surroundings at Papamoa Beach and then take in the dramatic scenery at McLaren Falls Park. Keep things going the next day: take a stroll through Eat Street, then catch some excitement at 3D Trick Art Gallery, then trek along Okere Falls Track, and finally glide peacefully along the water with some of the best stand-up paddleboarding in the area.

For ratings, reviews, where to stay, and other tourist information, use the Rotorua trip planner.

Auckland to Rotorua is an approximately 2.5-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a bus. When traveling from Auckland in December, plan for somewhat warmer days in Rotorua, with highs around 25°C, while nights are little chillier with lows around 17°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 22nd (Thu) so you can go by car to Taupo.

The resort town of Taupo lies on the banks of Lake Taupo, the largest body of water in the whole of Australasia.

Start off your visit on the 22nd (Thu): get some thrills on the water with a speed boat tour. On your second day here, take a memorable tour with Tours, take in the dramatic scenery at Huka Falls Walkway, then stop by Souvenir Outlet & Mountain Bike Hire, and finally witness a stunning natural landmark at Spa Thermal Park and Riverbank Recreational and Scenic Reserve.

To find other places to visit, photos, more things to do, and more tourist information, you can read our Taupo trip planning site.

Drive from Rotorua to Taupo in 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. On the 24th (Sat), wrap the sightseeing up by early afternoon so you can fly back home.