10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© Redwoods Treewalk - Destination Rotorua
10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids

20 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids 👪 [2024]

© Redwoods Treewalk – Destination Rotorua

The Top Family Activities in Rotorua

Plan at least a couple of days in Rotorua because the array of family-friendly activities is huge. Surrounding its lake are geothermal hotspots, amazing exotic and native forests, adventure activities, unique sightseeing tours and a hub for the Māori culture. See what are the best ways to experience it all as a family with this list of the best things to do in Rotorua with kids.

For more trip-planning advice, check out The Family Guide to Rotorua, as well as the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Rotorua.

1. Experience the Famous Sheep Show and Farm Tour of Agrodome

Something to Do in Rotorua with Young Kids

Let’s be honest, you probably told your kids that New Zealand is full of sheep before jetting off here. Make sure their expectations are lived up to by checking out the sheep show and farm tour at Agrodome! You’ll have the option to watch a show on sheep shearing and wool spinning or see the variety of New Zealand farming on the farm tour. Or you could do both! Farmers will introduce you to sheep, cattle, deer, llamas, alpacas, emus and ostriches to feed them, while you’ll also get a chance to feed yourselves with organic fruit orchard and honey tastings.

Location: 141 Western Road, 10 km (6 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© Agrodome Rotorua - Destination Rotorua

2. See the Forest From a Different Perspective on the Redwoods Treewalk

Daytime or under the beautiful night lighting, families can enjoy a unique eco-experience on the Redwoods Treewalk. Look out for native birdlife and see the forest from an unusual perspective on the 700 m (766 yards) long walkway with 28 suspension bridges taking around 40 minutes to complete. As long as your kids can walk, the experience is suitable, safe and fun for children. When you’re done, enjoy some of the family-friendly walks and bike trails of the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest (more on that in point #5).

Location: 1 Long Mile Road, 5 km (3 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© Redwoods Treewalk - Destination Rotorua

3. Meet the Kiwi Birds at the National Kiwi Hatchery

Something to Do in Rotorua with Toddlers

Learn more about nature, particularly New Zealand’s famous kiwi birds, at the National Kiwi Hatchery. A behind-the-scenes tour will give you the chance to see young kiwi birds before they are released into the wild as part of a conservation breeding program. Plus, seeing a kiwi chick is sure to put smiles on every family member’s face. Find out more about passes to the National Kiwi Hatchery on Viator or Klook.

Location: Fairy Springs Road, 5 km (3 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© NZPocketGuide.com

4. See Rotorua’s Sights and Lakes with Rotorua Duck Tours

A duck doesn’t care if it’s raining and neither does Rotorua Duck Tours! Whatever the weather, jump in one of these unmissable WW2 amphibious buses for a comprehensive tour of Rotorua’s city highlights, hot pools and historical sites, as well as into the famous natural attractions, the Blue Lake and Lake Orareka. Learn more about Rotorua Duck Tours on Viator or Klook. Plus, see more activities like this in the 15 Things to Do in Rotorua on a Rainy Day.

Location: Tours depart from 1241 Fenton Street, Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© Rotorua Duck Tours - Destination Rotorua

5. Do the Family-Friendly Walks or Bike Trails of the Whakawerawera Redwood Forest

There are plenty of natural attractions in Rotorua that you can enjoy for free, and the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest is a good place to start. There are two fantastic short walks for families, such as the Redwood Memorial Grove Track taking you on boardwalks over a thermal pond and the Waitawa Walk to spend more time among the giant Douglas firs and silver fern trees. Check out more walks in the 20 Best Walks in Rotorua, as well as the family-friendly bike trails in the 10 Best Bike Trails in Rotorua.

Location: 1 Long Mile Road, 5 km (3 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

20 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids 👪 [2024]© Graeme Murray - RotoruaNZ

6. Take a Day Trip to One of the Lakes of Rotorua

Something to do in Rotorua with Babies

Speaking of free things to do, a day trip to one of the 18 lakes surrounding Rotorua is also an option to keep things affordable for families. We like Blue Lake (Lake Tikitapu), which has good swimming beaches, an easy-going walkway and a children’s playground. Alternatively, Lake Okareka is a great place for a picnic and has a stroller-friendly boardwalk in the wetlands. See more walks in the 20 Best Walks in Rotorua, as well as day trips in The Best Day Trips from Rotorua.

Location: Blue Lake – Tarawera Road, approximately 10 km (6 mi) from Rotorua city centre. Lake Okareka – Acacia Road, approximately 12 km (7 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

20 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids 👪 [2024]© Destination Rotorua

7. See Natural Wonders at Rotorua’s Geothermal Parks

Of course, Rotorua is famous for its geothermal wonders, so don’t miss the geothermal parks like Wai-O-Tapu and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Wai-O-Tapu is one of the most popular geothermal parks in New Zealand, home of the orange-lined Champagne Pool, the vibrant green Devil’s Bath and the Lady Knox Geyser. A walking tour around Wai-O-Tapu is ideal for families on limited time.

Alternatively, enjoy the multitude of walks and even a boat cruise at the Waimangu Volcanic Valley with spectacular craters, huge steaming lakes, bubbling hot springs and much more. While families can enjoy a longer outing at this geothermal park, there is a bus running up and down the valley should you want to give the little ones’ legs a rest. See Waimangu Volcanic Valley’s page on Viator or Klook for more details and (sometimes) discounted tickets.

Location: Wai-O-Tapu – 201 Waiotapu Loop Road. Waimangu – 587 Waimangu Road. Check out more geothermal parks and their locations in the 10 Best Geothermal Parks in Rotorua and New Zealand.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© NZPocketGuide.com

8. Zip Through the Trees and Over Waterfalls

Something to Do in Rotorua with Teens

For families seeking adventure (and who have kids aged six years and above), try out Rotorua Canopy Tours. This small-group tour takes you on a thrilling experience ziplining on six huge ziplines through centuries-old forest. Not only will you soar some 22 m (72 ft) above the ground, but you’ll also learn about the forest on this educational eco-tour. Learn more about Rotorua Canopy Tours on Viator, Klook or KKday.

Alternatively, Rotorua Ziplines is Rotorua’s new kid in the trees, a series of exciting ziplines through native forest and over the tumultuous rapids of the Kaituna River and Okere Falls. The eco-tour also provides an educational experience in learning about the local flora, fauna and culture, as well as gives guests the opportunity to plant a tree to add to the natural beauty. Learn more about Rotorua Ziplines on Viator and Klook.

Location: Rotorua Canopy Tours – 147 Fairy Springs Road, approximately 5 km (3 mi) from Rotorua city centre. Rotorua Ziplines – 761 State Highway 33, approximately 21 km (13 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© Destination Rotorua

9. Get a Dose of That Famous New Zealand Adrenaline at Velocity Valley

New Zealand is famous for its adrenaline experiences, but there are not many places where you can experience them with the kids… Introducing Velocity Valley! This adrenaline-fuelled theme park features four family-friendly rides, as well as the “Rotorua Bungy” which is only suitable for those over the age of 10. Jump on the giant swing called “Swoop”, experience the thrills of skydiving at “Freefall Xtreme”, feel the speed and sharp turns of the jet boat “Agrojet” and race each other in the rail capsules of the “Schweeb Racer”.

Location: 1335 Paradise Valley Road, approximately 9 km (6 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© NZPocketGuide.com

10. Experience the Māori Culture

Another must-do in Rotorua is experiencing the captivating cultural performances of the Māori culture. Great options for families are Te Pā Tū (formerly Tamaki Māori Village) and Mitai Maori Village, which begin with traditional welcoming ceremonies before you’re allowed into their villages where there are various interactive workshops to learn Māori games, their tattoos and the infamous haka. After an enthralling cultural show, you’ll dine on traditional Māori food in a hāngī buffet. See more options for Māori shows in the 10 Best Māori Tours in New Zealand.

Location: Te Pā Tū transport departs from 1220 Hinemaru Street, Rotorua city centre. Accommodation pick-ups are available. Car parking is available at the attraction on 103 Highlands Loop Road, approximately 16 km (10 mi) from Rotorua city centre. Mitai Maori Village offers Rotorua accommodation pick-ups.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© NZPocketGuide.com

11. Race Each Other on The Luge

Something hilariously fun for all ages, The Luge at Skyline Rotorua is a must for families! Challenge each other to Rotorua’s three downhill Luge tracks in go-karts that are easy to use by simply running on gravity. There are plenty of twists, turns, tunnels and dips to keep the tracks exciting. Plus, if your little ones are too small to kart themselves, they can easily sit on Mum or Dad’s lap.

Location: 178 Fairy Springs Road, approximately 5 km (3 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© Skyline Rotorua

12. Roll Down a Hill in an Inflatable Ball

Another wacky family activity in Rotorua is the weird yet ridiculously fun Zorb. Your hollow inflatable hamster ball is filled with a little bit of water on the bottom, as well as several family members at once. Then your ball is unleashed to roll down a hill! Choose from different tracks for this nonsensical tumbling experience. Be aware, once you ride you’ll want to do it again and again… The rides are suitable for ages five years and up.

Location: 525 Ngongotaha Road, approximately 5 km (3 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© NZPocketGuide.com

13. Hit the Hot Pools

Rotorua is the place to be for unwinding in a naturally heated hot pool. The best hot pools in Rotorua for families include Polynesian Spa (more info on Klook or KKday) with its hydro slide and Waikite Valley Thermal Pools nestled in native bush. For families feeling more adventurous, seek out free natural hot pool spots like Kerosene Creek. We list those ones for you in 5 Free Natural Hot Pools in Rotorua, as well as paid hot pools in the 10 Best Hot Pools in New Zealand.

Warning: Don’t allow you or your kids to put their heads underwater at the thermally heated mineral pools, including the free hot pools. There is a risk of contracting amoebic meningitis. Additionally, test the temperature before throwing the kids into any of the free hot pools – there are some dangerously hot patches.

Location: Polynesian Spa – 1000 Hinemoa Street. Waikite Valley Thermal Pools – 648 Waikite Valley Road, Waikite Valley, approximately 29 km (18 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© Waikite Valley Thermal Pools

14. Let the Kids Loose at Motion Entertainment

Enjoy some quality time at Motion Entertainment. The all-in-one indoor entertainment centre is one of the ideal things to do in Rotorua on a rainy day or at night with an array of activities to get stuck into. Try the mini golf course, which takes you through mining tunnels, or work together to solve the puzzles of the escape rooms. Bowling, arcade games, a trampoline park, laser tag and a bar and restaurant are also on the entertainment menu.

Location: 346 Te Ngae Road, Lynmore, approximately 4 km (2.5 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© NZPocketGuide.com

15. Get Some Hilarious Photos from the 3D Trick Art Gallery

Speaking of indoor attractions, the 3D Trick Art Gallery isn’t just any old art gallery. Your family will become part of more than 50 pieces of art, from 3D wall murals to convincing portraits.

Location: 171 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, approximately 4.5 km (2.8 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© 3D Trick Art Gallery

16. Check Out the Bubbling Mud and Dip Your Feet in the Hot Pools at Kuirau Park

A free geothermal park right in the centre of Rotorua is Kuirau Park. Kids love checking out the steamy lakes, pools and bubbling mud. You can even bathe your feet in hot foot baths. Check out more attractions like this in the 15 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Rotorua.

Location: Kuirau Street, Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© NZPocketGuide.com

17. See the Glowworms of Lake Rotoiti in the Big Kanu

Suitable for all ages, the “Big Kanu Starlight Tour” with Waimarino Kayak Tours is a unique way to experience Rotorua’s lakes. The two-hour tour takes the family on the calm waters of Lake Rotoiti in a giant canoe where kids can be as involved in the paddling as they want. The destination is a cave with a magical constellation of glowworms.

Location: Pick-ups are offered from Rotorua accommodations.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© NZPocketGuide.com

18. Have a Soak at the Secret Spot

A hot pool experience with a difference, Secret Spot Hot Tubs is where you can treat the family to their own private hot tub – big enough for up to six people! Nestled in the lush forest of the Waipa Valley are 12 cedar hot tubs with fresh water, so you don’t need to worry about the whole “putting your head under the water” scenario, as mentioned in our listing for the other hot pools. Book your hot tub session on Viator or Klook.

Location: 13/33 Waipa State Mill Road, Whakarewarewa, approximately 5.5 km (3.4 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© Secret Spot Hot Tubs Rotorua

19. Play Mini Golf with Rabbits!

Certainly one of the quirkiest attractions on this list of things to do in Rotorua with kids, Rotorua Mini Golf is not just a mini golf course but an animal attraction. You’ll share the course with giant flemish rabbits that the kids will adore. Come after dark and the course is lit up with fairy lights.

Location: 152 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, approximately 4.5 km (2.8 mi) from Rotorua city centre.

20 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© Unsplash

20. See Awesome Birds of Prey at Wingspan

Finally, treat and educate the kids about some of New Zealand’s unique bird species by visiting rare birds at Wingspan, the National Bird of Prey Centre. Visit the aviary of these birds in rehabilitation close up, such as the New Zealand falcon and the dwarf owl called a morepork or “ruru” in Māori. Arrive at Wingspan at around 2 pm and you can even watch daily flight displays of New Zealand falcons.

Location: Paradise Valley Road, approximately 8.5 km (5 mi) from Rotorua town centre.

20 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids© NZPocketGuide.com

More About Rotorua for Kids

That’s it for the best things to do in Rotorua with kids. For more experiences that don’t necessarily fall under the “family” category but are just as wonderful, check out the following guides:

Finally, discover even more family activities in 20 Best Things to Do on the North Island with Kids and plan your family road trip with the North Island Family Itinerary: Two Week or North Island Family Itinerary: One Week.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura S.

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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