Western Heights Travel Guide
Rotorua
Visit Western Heights
Popular places to visit
Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
Walk, cycle or ride a horse through this picturesque forest filled with a magnificent array of trees from around the world.
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.
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.
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.
Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park
Learn about New Zealand’s most famous bird as you explore this comprehensive wildlife park, complete with a lake full of trout and walk through aviaries.
Things to do
Rotorua: Polynesian Spa Pavilion Hot Pool Bathing (12+ yrs)
Cambridge, Matamata, Waitomo: 1-Hour Ecological River Cruise
Rotorua Tour from Auckland with Optional Extras
Polynesian Spa Rotorua: Family Hot Pools and Freshwater Pool
Top hotels in Western Heights
Pullman Rotorua
Rydges Rotorua
"We loved the pool and games room"
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
"We enjoyed our 2 night stay. The room was very quiet. Beds are comfortable. Bathroom and shower were super clean. Front desk staff were cordial and very helpful. Convenient to the town center and Polynesian Spa and a bus that goes to the Redwood Forest. We’d happily stay here again."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
"I think the rooms need a bit of paint and new taps/showers and toilets"
Reviewed on 8 Jun 2026
JetPark Hotel Rotorua
"the room has got everything that would need for the stay. The bed is very confortable and room is very clean. Loction is very central too."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Prince's Gate Hotel
"Old building, well maintained. Comfortable bed, good continental breakfast"
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Western Heights
Inner City
If you're spending some time in Inner City, Rotorua Night Market and Rotorua Central Mall are top sights worth seeing.
Whakarewarewa
The panoramic lake views and luxurious spas are just a few highlights of Whakarewarewa. Make a stop by Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village or Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve while you're exploring the area.
Lake Okareka
Travellers like the parks in Lake Okareka, and Lake Tikitapu is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Owhata
If you're spending some time in Owhata, Lake Rotorua and Haiku Pathway are top sights worth seeing.
Ngapuna
While Ngapuna may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Polynesian Spa and Government Gardens.
