Western Heights Travel Guide
Rotorua
Visit Western Heights
Popular places to visit
Polynesian Spa
Set among the serene Government Gardens on the shores of Lake Rotorua, these hot pools are an idyllic place to relax and unwind.
Skyline Rotorua
Take in the splendid scenery during a gondola ride and jump in a luge cart to navigate your way down the exciting mountain track.
Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
Walk, cycle or ride a horse through this picturesque forest filled with a magnificent array of trees from around the world.
Eat Street
During your trip to Rotorua, you can enjoy retail therapy at Eat Street.
Mitai Maori Village
For a great insight into Māori customs and way of life, sign up for this magical, entertaining and educational cultural experience.
Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village
You can find out about the history of Rotorua with a trip to Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.
Things to do
Rotorua Tour from Auckland with Optional Extras
National Kiwi Hatchery - Kiwi Encounter Guided Tour
Cambridge, Matamata, Waitomo: 1-Hour Ecological River Cruise
Top hotels in Western Heights
Rydges Rotorua
Tired, old property, buffet dinner overcooked, soggy, poor replenishment, limited salads, no dessert 1hr+ before closing, not worth the cost. AC in room loud. Shower in bath, no walk in shower. Ended up eating down the road at Eastwood
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Stayed one night at Millennium Rotorua with the family. The location is definitely the best part — very close to Polynesian Spa and only about a 10-minute walk to the shops and restaurants. But honestly, the hotel itself just felt like a basic room for a very high price. I really don’t understand ...
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Pullman Rotorua
Quick and easy check in. Modern hotel with a very large room (king with lake view). Only parking option is valet so be prepared to pay for valet upon arrival. Within easy walking distance to more restaurants than you can visit. Disappointed that there wasn't a pool. Didn't like that price for breakfast ...
Reviewed on 5 May 2026
Prince's Gate Hotel
Good breakfast and staff polite and professional.
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
Nice location, room was good, but bathroom could do with a refurbishment as grout between tiles a bit moldy & a fixed showerhead over a bath is a bit dated (and slightly dangerous without a non slip mat) and don't like fighting with a wet shower curtain. Carpet in some areas of the Hotel was a bit ...
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
Marsden Stay Rotorua
Staff really helpful had an issue with my TV and they immediately sorted, couldn’t fix TV so found me another room. Would recommend!!
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Western Heights
Fairy Springs
While visiting Fairy Springs, you might make a stop by sights like Skyline Rotorua and Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park.
Mangakakahi
Though Mangakakahi may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Kuirau Park and Eat Street.
Koutu
While visiting Koutu, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Rotorua and Tribal Lights Cultural Theatre.
Kawaha Point
River views, spas and restaurants highlight some of the notable features of Kawaha Point. Make a stop by Lake Rotorua while you're exploring.
Utuhina
While Utuhina isn't home to many top sights, Rotorua Central Mall and Kuirau Park are some notable places to visit nearby.
Ohinemutu
Spas and lake views are notable features of Ohinemutu. You might consider stopping by Lake Rotorua while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
