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Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

Rotorua, Taupo & Coromandel

A geothermal wonderland

Things to do in Rotorua, Taupo & Coromandel

Introduction

The North Island’s central region is shaped by millennia of volcanic activity. Summit volcanic peaks and dive down into tranquil troughs and sandy beaches as you take in a world of geothermal delights, from hot-spring beaches to hikes among still-smoking calderas.

Explore Rotorua's volcanic parks

And its geographic exuberance can be best experienced in Rotorua, where New Zealand’s position on the Pacific Ring of Fire – a horseshoe belt that hosts more than three-quarters of the world’s volcanoes – is most visible. Geysers spurt, natural hot tubs steam, mineral lakes glow bright orange and mud pools all but explode. It’s all steeped in tribal Maori mythology, manifested today in cultural performances, traditional villages and hangi feasts.


Champagne Pool, Rotorua, New Zealand

Hit the beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula

The volcanicity has also soared north to Coromandel, forming a central peninsular spine that rises to nearly 900 metres. This bush-clad divide separates a sublime ocean-thrashed west coast from the naturally heated beaches and cathedral rock formations of the idyllic east. Taken as a whole it’s a hiker’s paradise.


Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

Discover caves and calderas on the shores of Lake Taupo

Between the two regions, Lake Taupo stands as an oasis in a storm of topography. Despite its volcanic caldera origins, it’s a slice of pure relaxation, featuring serene waters, national park walks and some of the world’s best trout fishing. Waitomo, however, didn’t emerge so unscathed. Thousands of years of erosion have gutted its hills into some 300 caves, host to labyrinthine sinkholes and otherworldly limestone formations all lit by the surreal ghostly green of their resident glow-worms.


Lake Taupo, New Zealand

 

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Top itineraries in Rotorua, Taupo & Coromandel

Queenstown, New Zealand

Highlights of New Zealand

19-day tailor-made self-drive from £3,705 pp incl. flights

With boutique hotel stays and car hire included throughout, this curated road trip perfectly showcases the unique cultures and natural wonders of New Zealand's North and South islands.

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel, New Zealand.

Best of New Zealand's North Island

17-day tailor-made self-drive from £4,070 pp

Between stunning volcanic landscapes, sub-tropical beaches and world-class wineries, this fly-drive holiday showcases the best of New Zealand's North Island.

Rotorua, New Zealand

Cultural Highlights of New Zealand

19-day tailor-made self-drive from £4,425 pp incl. flights

A tip-to-toe tour of New Zealand, taking in the best of its landscapes and culture, and calling into filming locations from The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Wilderness Highlights of New Zealand

23-day tailor-made self-drive from £6,780 pp incl. flights

Discover the spectacular landscapes of New Zealand's north and south islands on this fly-drive holiday, which includes a journey across the Southern Alps aboard the iconic TranzAlpine Express.

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Top places to stay in Rotorua, Taupo & Coromandel

Thermal bathing near Solitaire Lodge, Rotorua

Solitaire Lodge, Rotorua, New Zealand

Small & intimate lodge

Originally built in 1980 as a luxury fishing lodge, Solitaire Lodge enjoys commanding views over beautiful Lake Tarawera and offers guests a stylish and relaxing base from which to explore.

Waterfall in the forest near Treetops Lodge & Estate, Rotorua

Treetops Lodge and Estate, Rotorua, New Zealand

Small & intimate lodge

Set amidst a beautiful forest just outside the town of Rotorua, just two hours drive from Auckland on New Zealand's picturesque North Island, Treetops Lodge and Estate is a haven of peace and tranquility, surrounded by sparkling streams and 800 year old trees.

Peppers on the Point

On the Point, Rotorua

Contemporary hotel

On the Point is a converted 1930s family mansion offering luxury lodge accommodation on the shores of Lake Rotorua, just ten minutes from the centre of town.

Kinloch Club grand room, New Zealand

The Kinloch Club, Lake Taupo

Contemporary lodge

Combining ultra-modern design with Scottish castle extravagance, this is a unique property with spectacular views over Lake Taupo and New Zealand’s only Jack Nicklaus golf course.

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When to go to Rotorua, Taupo & Coromandel

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Meet our Rotorua, Taupo & Coromandel experts

Speak to a tailor-made specialist on 020 7981 9996

Meet the team

Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7981 9996 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

Learn why Wexas is the leader in creating luxury holidays. What is tailor-made travel?

Expert advice & support

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Let our travel specialists curate the perfect holiday:

  • Inspirational ideas based on experience
  • Established for over 50 years
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Every step of the way

Every step of the way

Our services are with you from start to finish:

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  • Care and guidance pre, post and during holiday
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