The first thing you'll notice about Rotorua is the air. The pungent smell of sulphur signals your arrival at this thermal city of geysers and bubbling mud. Fortunately, you become accustomed to the aroma fairly quickly and the natural wonders of this city are more than enough distraction. I recommend at least 2 full days, there is quite alot to see and do and at the end of it treat yourself to a soak in a hot thermal pool. Situated approx. 2 1/2 hr easy drive from Auckland, a stop at the Glow Worm Caves at Waitomo can be slotted into the itinerary if you have enough time and an interest in fluorescent worms. Rotorua is the home of the Maori Hangi, a traditional feast. Many hotels have nightly dinner shows and whilst the entertainment is excellent, traditional Maori food is an acquired taste.

If you haven't got the time to spend a couple of days exploring Rotorua then Great Sights have an excellent day tour departing and returning to Auckland that covers the major places of interest: Waitomo and Rotorua Experience.

3.5 Star
Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua, only 2 blocks from the shops and central business district. Excellent value for money with fantastic location.

4 Star
First built at the turn of the century, one of the finest boutique hostelries in town.

4.5 Star Apartment Style
Modern fully self contained apartments all with water views. Only 15mins from central Rotoura - great value for families.

Luxury Retreat
The place to stay preferably in the Tarawera Suite! Perched on the shores of Lake Tarawera with unobstructed views of green shoreline and deep blue waters. Exclusive and luxurious.

Whakawerawera Thermal Reserve
See boiling mud pools and shooting geysers. There are demonstrations of carving and weaving by Maori people. This is what Rotorua is most famous for and a great combination is with the Mt. Tarawera 4WD/Helicopter Tour.

Agrodome
This is a 50min sheep show! I'm sure I'm not the only one to have doubts about the interest I would find in a performance dedicated to this humble animal and I'm sure I'm not the only one to be thoroughly surprised at how entertaining and informative this is. Well worth a visit.

If you are interested in fishing this is the place to visit. I used this as a stopover on my way from Rotorua to Wellington. Whilst fishing is not my preferred leisure activity I did enjoy a couple of hours standing on the back of a boat whilst I held my rod and watched my companion reel in 3 trout! To the dismay of our guide we dutifully kissed all 3 before setting them free. This was a great experience but quite a costly one. Be prepared to pay well to be taken to the prime spots. Lake Taupo is a very pretty spot and has some lovely walks, the area has a real alpine feel.

3 Star
Set on the shores of Lake Taupo. The main lodge has a cosy feel with log fireplace and intimate restaurant. Accommodation is comfortable and the tariff includes meals.

5 Star Luxury Lodge
Set on 7 hectares of manicured grounds the 20 luxury suites all face the river. Guests are summonsed to pre-dinner drinks in the main lodge by a bagpipe player. Dinner is a 5 course event and guests have a choice of venue from the main lodge to al fresco on the terrace to the candlelit romance of the wine cellar. Huka is a member of the exclusive Small Luxury Hotel group.