What to do in Ngongotaha Valley

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Emma McCarthy
Photo by Emma McCarthy
Photo by Emma McCarthy
Photo by Emma McCarthy
Photo by Emma McCarthy
Photo by Emma McCarthy
Photo by Jan Hammond
Photo by Jan Hammond
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Top places to visit

1. Skyline Rotorua

Skyline Rotorua cable car carries passengers up Mount Ngongotaha to a height of 487 metres (1,598 feet). Admiring the views isn’t the only thing to do at the summit. Sip a coffee in the café, fly over dense forest on the zip line or steer down the steep luge course.
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Skyline Rotorua

2. Polynesian Spa

Located adjacent to beautiful Lake Rotorua, the steaming baths of the Polynesian Spa are the perfect place to destress. Soak in steamy, cleansing water while you gaze out across the pristine lake. Escape to your very own private pool or play on the slides in the large family area.
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Polynesian Spa which includes a lake or waterhole

3. Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest

Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest is a tranquil woodland park crisscrossed by trekking and biking trails. Set off on a hike past thermal ponds and geysers or admire eucalyptus trees and immense Californian Redwoods while horseback riding.
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Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest showing forest scenes

4. Lake Rotoiti

Take in views of forest-fringed waters, shimmering glow worm caves and the Southern Alps at Lake Rotoiti in the Nelson Lakes National Park. Surrounded by towering mountains, all the lakes in this park were carved out by glaciers over thousands of years and have remained largely untouched. As well as making for a spectacular landscape, this has also allowed native wildlife to thrive.
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Lake Rotoiti featuring a lake or waterhole and tranquil scenes

5. Lake Rotorua

Visit Lake Rotorua and you will find no shortage of things to do. Swim in the calm, clear waters by the city’s edge or set off on foot in search of your own private bay. Kayak to mystical Mokoia Island or sit back and relax on a boat cruise.
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Lake Rotorua featuring a park and a lake or waterhole as well as a small group of people

6. Lake Tarawera

Watersports and jaw-dropping natural beauty feature at beautiful Lake Tarawera. This is one of New Zealand’s largest lakes and a superb place to enjoy boating, fishing and hiking activities. Once home to a collection of Māori settlements, tragedy struck Lake Tarawera in 1886 when the peaks of Mount Tarawera erupted and buried the communities. The eruptions rose the lake by around 39 feet (12 meters) and left behind an area of tranquil landscapes.
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Lake Tarawera featuring a beach and swimming as well as a small group of people

What to do in Ngongotaha Valley

Popular places to visit

Paradise Valley Springs

Explore the great outdoors at Paradise Valley Springs, a lovely green space in Ngongotaha Valley. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this family-friendly area.

Paradise Valley Springs

Velocity Valley

Bring the family to Velocity Valley and have a fun-filled day at this theme park in Ngongotaha Valley.

Velocity Valley

aMAZEme

Bring your family to aMAZEme and enjoy this exciting theme park in Ngongotaha Valley.

aMAZEme

Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre

Why not visit the native and exotic animals who live at Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre during your travels in Ngongotaha Valley? Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre

Day trip destinations from Ngongotaha Valley

Photo by Taylor Bank

Horohoro

Frequently asked questions

Is Ngongotaha Valley worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Ngongotaha Valley is explore Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre. Check this leading sight off your to-do list, then experience more of the area's nature and adventure sports.
How do I spend a day in Ngongotaha Valley?
Sulphur Point and Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre are two good places to kick-start your adventures. Remember to check out the dining and retail options in Ngongotaha Valley while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ngongotaha Valley?
Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre is one of the top tourist attractions in Ngongotaha Valley and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Ngongotaha Valley?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off popular city attractions, including Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre, Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre and Volcanic Hills Winery. The average stay in Ngongotaha Valley is four days. If you have the time to extend your holiday, Rotorua isn't far away.
Is Ngongotaha Valley a walkable city?
If discovering on foot sounds like your style of holiday, Ngongotaha Valley is a perfect destination. Find leading sights, such as Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre, a walkable distance from downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Western Heights, a cool neighbourhood located about 5 kilometers from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Ngongotaha Valley with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Ngongotaha Valley with kids.

What to do in Ngongotaha Valley for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or adventure seeker, there are loads of things to do in Ngongotaha Valley for adults including Volcanic Hills Winery.
Are there free things to do in Ngongotaha Valley?
In Ngongotaha Valley, Eat Street is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Ngongotaha Valley.