When the rain begins to fall and the skies turn grey, it can be tempting to stay indoors. But with a bit of planning and a spirit of adventure, you can turn a rainy day in Rotorua into a memorable experience. This vibrant city in New Zealand is full of indoor and outdoor activities that can be enjoyed come rain or shine. Here are our top eight tips to help you plan exciting things to do on a rainy day in Rotorua.
Relax in the Healing Hot Pools
One of the best ways to spend a rainy day in Rotorua is by soaking in one of the city’s numerous hot pools. These geothermal wonders are created by the area’s volcanic activity and are renowned for their therapeutic properties. The Polynesian Spa, with its 28 mineral pools, offers a serene and relaxing environment where you can let the warm waters soothe your body while you watch the raindrops dance on the surface. Another excellent choice is the Waikite Valley Thermal Pools, which features a unique ‘eco-trail’ leading to the source of the hot water.
Dive into Maori Culture
Immersing yourself in Maori culture is an enriching experience that shouldn’t be missed. The Tamaki Maori Village and Mitai Maori Village offer interactive experiences where you can learn about traditional Maori customs, enjoy a traditional hangi feast, and witness captivating cultural performances. The best part? These experiences are all under cover, so you can delve into New Zealand’s rich history without getting wet.
Witness Rotorua’s Geothermal Wonders
Despite the rain, exploring Rotorua’s geothermal wonders is a must. The city is home to several geothermal parks like Wai-O-Tapu and Hell’s Gate, where you can marvel at steaming fumarines, bubbling mud pools, and colourful sinter terraces. Remember to pack a raincoat or umbrella – the steamy spectacle is even more dramatic against the backdrop of the falling rain.
Indulge in a Winery Tour
For wine enthusiasts, a visit to the Volcanic Hills Winery is a perfect rainy-day activity. Nestled in the heart of Rotorua, this winery offers a unique tasting experience paired with stunning views of Lake Rotorua. Savour their selection of fine wines while watching the rain create a mesmerising tableau outside.
Seek Indoor Thrills
When the weather turns sour, Rotorua’s range of indoor entertainment options comes to the rescue. For families, Chipmunks Playland and Motion Entertainment offer a variety of indoor games and activities. For thrill-seekers, there’s the Dark Ride XD – an interactive motion ride, and Off Road NZ’s Raceline Karting – a thrilling indoor go-karting experience5.
Savour Delicious Local Cuisine
A cloudy day is the perfect excuse to explore Rotorua’s thriving food scene. The city’s famous Eat Street is a covered dining precinct that boasts a wide array of restaurants and cafes. Whether you’re craving traditional Kiwi fare, Asian cuisine, or gourmet desserts, you’re sure to find something to tantalise your taste buds here.
Roll Down a Hill in a Zorb
If you’re up for an adrenaline-pumping activity, try Zorbing. This quintessential Rotorua experience involves rolling down a hill in a giant inflatable ball, and the rain simply adds to the fun by making the ride more slippery and exciting.
Get Creative at the 3D Trick Art Gallery
Finally, for a dose of indoor fun, head to the 3D Trick Art Gallery. This unique gallery features five themed areas filled with large-scale artworks that create optical illusions. It’s a fantastic place to snap some fun photos and spend a few hours out of the rain.
In conclusion, Rotorua is a city that thrives even under a rainy sky. From relaxing hot pools and fascinating cultural experiences to thrilling adventures and delicious food, there are so many things to do on a rainy day here. So, don’t let the rain stop you from exploring this geothermal wonderland. Pull on your raincoat, grab an umbrella, and set out for an unforgettable day in Rotorua.
