The highly popular Rotorua region at the heart of New Zealand's north island is a geothermal hot spot that offers a great example of all the best of the country's major highlights in a single, interesting and visually impressive location unlike few other places in NZ. Famed for its volcanic landscape, the region has been shaped by millions of years worth of activity that have given it its distinctive character. Rotorua is packed full of Maori history and culture that blends seamlessly alongside wonderfully scenic lakes while also providing opportunities for adventure and adrenaline for those wanting to kick things up a notch all while surrounded by its famously active geothermal features. The region is constantly steaming in many locations, with thermal reserves showcasing its various bubbling mud pools, hot springs and spouting geysers which make for some of the most surreal vistas in New Zealand.From the moment you arrive in Rotorua you'll know you're somewhere quite different.
There is a pervasive smell of sulphur, and at nearby geothermal hotspots there are spouting geysers, acrid-smelling mud pools bubbling and belching, and warm geothermal pools and ponds that create a kaleidoscope of colour.Visit Whirinaki Forest Park located 90 kilometres south-east of Rotorua, off State Highway 38. The park, known as a 'dinosaur forest', has many tall trees that are centuries old. Sights include giant podocarps, views of the river cutting through an ancient lava flow and caves with pumice deposits, remnants of the Taupo eruption nearly 2000 years ago.If nature doesn't provide enough excitement, then you can top-up with some man-made extreme adventure. Try rap jumping down a mountain face, jumping from a plane at 9,500 feet in a tandem skydive, sledding on a toboggan down white water rapids, jetboating, luging down a local mountain. Or you might fancy tumbling head over heels down a hillside inside a giant ball: a zorb.After a hard day's sightseeing or strenuous activity a dip in a thermal spa is totally relaxing. In the evening you may be in the mood to experience a taste of Maori culture at a performance of song and dance, followed by food cooked in a traditional hangi (an earthen oven).
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