With its impressive volcanic landscape, living Maori culture, natural hot springs and opportunties for adventure, Rotorua is one of New Zealand's most famous travel destinations. Located in the central North Island, Rotorua is a leisurely three-hour drive from Auckland. You won't even notice the time passing as you meander through the spectacular countryside. We recommend pulling over your campervan rental vehicle occasionally to take in the scenery.

Rotorua is New Zealand's original tourist destination. In the 1800s people flocked to see the amazing Pink and White Terraces which were naturally occuring silica terraces that flowed into the volcanic lake. The local people known as Te Arawa, performed the role of tour guide and led many tour groups through this scenic area. Unfortuantely the terraces were destroyed in the 1886 erruption of Mt Tarawera but Rotorua's reputation as a tourist destination would continue to grow. To this day Maori guides take tour groups throughout Rotorua in the tradition of their ancestors.

The local Maori have a very strong spiritual connection with this area, this connection is based on five pillars or spirits.

The Maori Spirit

The spirit of the Maori culture is alive and well in Rotorua. For over 600 years the Arawa people have called this unique area their home. Witness the spirit of Maori culture, the authentic villages, traditional Maori feasts known as "hangi" and the beauitful song and dance performances that have been handed from generation to generation for centuries.

Immerse yourself in this ancient culture. Learn carving or weaving from master artists, sample contemporary food cooked using traditional methods or participate in Maori singing and dancing shows. Indulge in Maori hospitality and then retire with a smile on your face and with a full belly to the comfort of your motorhome hire vehicle.

The Earth's Spirit

The spirit of the Earth is alive in Rotorua. You know immediately when you arrive that this is a place like no other. Just minutes from the city centre you will find an amazing range of geothermal and volcanic activity. From hissing geyers, bubbling thermal springs, to mud and sinter formations, all of these things point to the incredible natural forces that are at work under the earth. It is worth taking the campervan hire vehicle on a tour around the lakes district which will provide spectacular views.

Nature's Spirit

The spirit of nature is alive and well in Rotorua. There are abundant natural resources available for your enjoyment. Rotorua's 15 fishable lakes provide anglers with superior trout fishing and the rivers and streams provide a wealth of freshwater activities. The lake chain was formed by volcanic activity in the region and provide the perfect spot for kayaking, waterskiing, and swimming, while the scenic tracts of bush and forest provide unparalleled hiking and mountain biking experiences. Why not take a scenic drive in your campervan rental vehicle and see with your own eyes the majesty and beauty of this region.

Renew your spirit

Rotorua provides visitors with many opportunities to renew and restore their spirit. For more than 160 years Rotorua has built a reputation as a natural spa destination. Soak in the healing waters of hot mineral springs or unwind with a therapeutic massage or mud wrap. Many of the local spa businesses services draw on the local mineral and geothermal resources.

Challenge your spirit

Challenge your spirit with a shot at some extreme activities such as sky-diving, jet boating and zorbing. What is zorbing you may ask? Designed in New Zealand a zorb is a large spherical enclosure that you climb into roll down hill inside of, in the most exhilerating way. Rafting, kayaking and sledging are also popular - trips on the Kaituna, Rangitaiki or Wairoa Rivers are a blast!

All of these rich experiences are within a very small area. And because of Rotorua's central location its a short drive in your Campervan Hire New Zealand vehicle to other North Island tourist attractions. Visit the sandy beaches at Mt Maunganui (1 hour), or take a stroll through Tongariro National Park (1.5 hours), bundle up against the cold at the North Island ski fields (2.5 hours) and stay the night in the wine region of Hawke's Bay (2.5 hours).

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