Mid-range restaurant | USD 65.04 |
Apartment (3 bedrooms) outside of centre | USD 867.15 |
Imported beer at restaurant | USD 4.55 |
Water bottle (1.5 liter) | USD 3.04 |
Apartment (1 bedroom) outside of centre | USD 572.32 |
One-way ticket (local transport) | USD 1.73 |
Fitness club, monthly fee for 1 adult | USD 43.36 |
Lettuce | USD 2.60 |
1 Summer dress in a chain store | USD 43.36 |
Combo meal at McDonalds | USD 7.15 |
A trip to New Zealand would not be complete without visiting its natural thermal wonderland called Rotorua. Only a 2.5-hour drive from South Auckland, Rotorua has hot springs and geysers you'll surely marvel. As a matter of fact, many visit this area of New Zealand just to witness such a natural phenomenon.
Getting to Rotorua is easy with various transportation options. Cheap flights to Rotorua are available from Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. You can also check out trans-tasman cheap flights to Rotorua promos from Sydney. Professional cyclists would also find a haven in Rotorua as it has one of the best off-road bike tracks in New Zealand.
Don't miss the scenic Government Gardens and the city's museum. From there, take a stroll at the Motutara or Sulphur Bay to see natural sulphur vents, hot springs and waterbirds. Experience authentic and true blue Maori culture through cultural performances in Rotorua. One of the things you should check out is the glowworms in Mitai Village. As its name suggests, these species glow in the dark providing a beautiful view of natural streams. While in Mitai, also drop by the Fairy Springs, a natural wonder famous for its pure and clean spring water.
For the best geothermal wonder sightseeing, go to either Te Puia or Whakarewarewa Thermal Village. These attractions offer guided tour packages you can enjoy. You should also visit The Agrodome, an agricultural park featuring different rural life exhibits. Adventurous individuals can also take advantage of its Freefall Experience simulator which is considered as the island's highest bungee jump offering.
Aside from taking lots of photos, the best souvenir are Maori crafts you can find on sale on almost every tourist spot. Depending on your budget, you can pick from professional artworks to little trinkets that scream Maori.
For accommodations, backpackers can choose from the many inns and backpacker lodges. Hotels in Rotorua range from the budget-friendly to the most luxurious. There are also bed and breakfast choices for everyone.
To further enjoy Rotorua, be very sensitive about hazard signs and warnings. Because the place is oozing with geothermal activity, there's no room for tourists to be hard-headed and all.