Summer adventures in Rotorua

There is no place on Earth quite like Rotorua…

Where culture, history, and natural wonders blend so seamlessly. And there is no better place to explore during the warm New Zealand summer. Not just a place to pause en route to your next destination, Rotorua itself is worthy of an extended holiday. No matter your age or interests, there is much to experience. If you are one of the lucky ones visiting Rotorua for your next summer holiday, we recommend these adventures to make your time memorable indeed.

Immerse yourself in the Polynesian Spa

On the picturesque shores of peaceful Lake Rotorua is an authentic Polynesian Spa, where 28 natural mineral pools draw visitors to their steamy setting for their promise of relaxation, rejuvenation and—if you make it on a clear evening—truly breath-taking sunsets. The pools are fed by two natural springs with different restorative properties. While the water from the Priest Spring is said to soothe sore muscles, the water from the Rachel Spring works wonders for your skin.

No matter who your travel companions are, there will be an experience to suit you at the Polynesian Spa. Some pools are family-friendly while others are restricted to those 12 years and over. Book a private spa experience if you wish, or complement your soak with your choice of treatment at the day spa.

We recommend the 'mud indulgence' therapy which uses Rotorua’s world-famous geothermal mud to treat your skin to a mask and massage like no other.

Two people bathing in the Polynesian Spa

Dinner at The Regent Room

No holiday is complete without at least one outstanding meal—and The Regent Room Restaurant & Bar is just the place.

Enjoy chilled champagne, a selection of tapas, or a light Caesar salad in the courtyard while you listen to the fountain cascading into the heated pool below. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the meals here are fresh, delicious, and expertly prepared.

There is an outstanding plant-based menu which many regulars adore, and a seven-course degustation that will satisfy even the most critical of tastebuds.

An enviable wine list, comprehensive drinks menu, and dedicated choices for children’s menu ensure there is an option for every person and every occasion.

A main course at the Regent Room

Fly and land on Mt Tarawera

Many of our guests here at The Regent of Rotorua remark that their favoured way to appreciate the lay of the land is to see it from high above.

A scenic flight over Rotorua in summer will demonstrate just how diverse the Rotorua landscape is—from the towering trees to the bubbling mud pools and the mesmerising lakes. A memorable experience is to take a helicopter flight to Mount Tarawera, where you can land on the spectacular slopes.

Your guide will take you on a captivating walking tour, introducing some fascinating geological features including the craters and valleys formed by the historic 1866 eruption.

Photo above Mount Tarawera

Go sailing on Lake Rotoiti

On a warm summer’s day, board the luxury 53-foot catamaran Tiua for a day on the cool, fresh waters of Lake Rotoiti.

If you want to fill your time with adventure and exploration, you can fish off the boat for trout or dive off for a swim through shadowy caves. The crew would be delighted to show you the ropes and let you help sail the yacht, giving you a quick lesson on moving the sails to propel the yacht through the tranquil waters.

Alternatively, you can sit back and admire the sights from your comfortable spot on the spacious deck. A quintessential Kiwi BBQ lunch enjoyed while tucked away in one of the bays will be the cherry on top of what is bound to be a memorable day.

A boat on Lake Rotoiti

What our patrons say

“Great location, very clean. Suitable for family, couples or groups. Good parking. Our room exceeded our expectations. Location is great and close to the lake, Hospital, eat street. Rooms are very clean perfect for our requirements.”

“Thoroughly enjoyed our two nights at the Regent. Couldn’t really fault it. The swimming pool is lively and clean and warm. The hot tub a nice treat and the water lovely. The rooms extremely clean and in great condition. Bed is comfy enough. The towels, soaps etc are of reasonable quality and the dressing gown always a plus! We had breakfast both days and couldn’t fault the food. All the staff are super friendly and can’t do enough for you. Definitely can recommend !”

“We had lunch and dinner it was divine, top class service from all personnel, front desk team, cleaner restaurant staff and the maintenance man they all gave service with a smile. Highly recommend this fabulous accommodation the grounds were beautifully maintained and clean.”

“Walking distance to Rotorua's CBD and 2 minutes from Eat Street. Very friendly staff. Rooms are clean and well designed. We had a family room which had 2 comfortable double beds, a large bathroom with a rain shower plus a bath and a good range of toiletries. Despite visiting in the middle of winter the rooms were very warm. Did not use the bar or restaurant but both looked lovely; very clean and modern. The reception staff were marvellous:-). Also has an outside pool which looked great.”