New Zealand is an Antipodean land which attracts lovers of vast spaces and wild nature. Though it is mostly mountainous, the country has a diverse range of landscapes and environments: icy summits, plains with mirror-like lakes, wild coastline licked by the Pacific waters... The nature here is absolutely majestic. And fortunately ecology takes pride of place here.

New Zealand, an intense natural paradise

A lively town, surrounded by dozens of volcanoes and black sand beaches.

Oceania

Welcome to the New Zealand travel pages. In this faraway country, you can expect a harmonious mixture of lakes, mountainous and volcanic landscapes, and tropical vegetation... New Zealand is isolated in the middle of the ocean and is located halfway between the South Pole and the Equator. Even though it’s small in area (about the size of the UK), it has extremely diverse flora and fauna. Nature lovers are in paradise here. But this paradise is earned: you’ll have to spend long hours on an airplane to get here, and you can count on having 10 to 12 hours of jet lag once you arrive, depending on the season... But this land, which the Maori first called “Aotearoa,” the land of the long white cloud, is really worth the trip: abundant and diverse nature, beautiful landscapes, and outdoor activities… It’s all convenient for travellers: one of the advantages of this destination is the small size of the country, which makes all this beauty accessible, starting from your first trip to New Zealand. Your hunger for the great outdoors and desire for peace and serenity will be satisfied.

New Zealand

Auckland

Taupo is a small, lively town best known for its lake, which bears the same name and is the largest in New Zealand.

Taupo

With three active volcanoes, the Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park is a must for any hiking fan or visitors interested in exploring a volcanic landscape.

Tongariro National Park

Not far from Wellington, Martinborough is a city dedicated to wine. 

Martinborough

Sitting by a lake in a region steeped in Maori culture, this town is a hive of geothermal activity.

Rotorua

Samoa

Fiji

Europe

Central America

Africa

North America

South America

Asia

Middle East

The first thing that struck me when I arrived at Rotorua was the smell of sulphur. It reminded me of rotten eggs and it permeates the town. Signs of volcanic activity are everywhere - hot springs burst through the ground and mud pools bubble. Take a stroll around Government Gardens, strewn with flower beds and thermal pools. A walk around Lake Rotorua is also enjoyable and easy on the legs. It's a colorful place, thanks to the intense geothermal activity around it. You'll see lots of warning signs, so make sure you stay on the paths and avoid dangerous zones. Bearing in mind the extreme environmental conditions, I was surprised to see magnificent black swans on the lake. Another defining characteristic of Rotorua is its Maori cultural heritage. Go to the Ohinemutu side of the lake and visit St.Faith's Church. You'll see an image of a Maori Christ who appears to be walking across Rotorua's water, as well as several edifices and Maori sculptures. It's also worth noting that there are some interesting geothermal sites outside of Rotorua, as well as numerous spas. Unfortunately their prices were too prohibitive for my limited budget.

Sitting by a lake in a region steeped in Maori culture, this town is a hive of geothermal activity.

What's most fascinating about Rotorua, are the volcanic phenomena. Wai-O-Tapu is perhaps the best-known and most visited site, but the landscapes remain fascinating, except for Lady Knox geyser, which was a big disappointment for me and isn't worth the wait! Otherwise, there are other parks to discoverin the vicinity, and my favorite is Waimangu Volcanic Valley. But Rotorua is also home to the Zorb where you go down a hill in a huge pastic ball! And going down while rafting or on a jet boat. Not to mention natural hot water spas and mud baths to recover from a day of adventure. Finally, the city has a large Maori population and several shows help you discover a little of the culture and traditions of these people, folksy, but likeable.

The South Island may have Queenstown for activities and adrenaline, but the North Island has Rotorua! Best known for its geothermal and volcanic phenomena, it is a dynamic city, and the Maori cradle of culture. 

Rotorua Vacations

Rotorua: How to get there?

Rotorua: See when to go ?

Rotorua: For how long?

Rotorua: What to see nearby?

New Zealand: our articles for your vacations