DAY TRIPS FROM ROTORUA
More gems within easy reach
Make Rotorua your base and explore lakes, waterfalls, beaches and unforgettable stops just a short drive away.
Where will the road take you?
Easy day trips from Rotorua
From lakeside towns and powerful waterfalls to beaches and memorable roadside stops, there’s plenty to discover beyond Rotorua. Choose a direction and make a day of it..
Taupō + Huka Falls
Drive: Around 1 hour from Rotorua
Best for: Waterfalls, lake views and sightseeing
Don’t miss: Huka Falls, Taupō lakefront and the colourful geothermal stops along the way.
Tauranga + Mount Maunganui
Drive: Around 1 hour from Rotorua
Best for: Beaches, cafés and coastal views
Don’t miss: Mount Main Beach, Pilot Bay
Blue spring + Matamata
Drive: Around 1 hour from Rotorua
Best for: Scenic countryside and clear blue water
Don’t miss: Blue Spring at Te Waihou Walkway, plus Hobbiton or a Matamata café stop.
Tarawera Falls + Ohope Beach
Drive: Around 1 hour 15 minutes from Rotorua
Best for: Beaches, waterfalls and coastal exploring
Don’t miss: Tarawera Falls—a short forest walk reached by an unsealed forestry road.
Permit required: Collect from Kawerau i-SITE before entering the forestry road.
Access: Weekends and public holidays only.
