We all love a bit of sunshine; however, a rainy day in Rotorua doesn’t have to ruin your plans. There are plenty of activities to enjoy when it’s wet, and some experiences are even better in the rain!
- Relax in a natural hot spring at Kerosene Creek
- Raft down the adrenaline pumping rapids with River Rats
- Zipline through native forest with Rotorua Canopy Tours
- Explore the lakes with Rotorua Duck Tours
- Take some photos at the 3D Trick Art Gallery
- Go for a walk in the Redwood Forest
- Enjoy a meal at Eat Streat
- Have some fun indoors at Motion Entertainment
1. Relax in a natural hot spring at Kerosene Creek
The best way to spend a cloudy, rainy day is by soaking in a hot spring surrounded by native bush with rain falling around you. Kerosene Creek is a freshwater, natural hot spring about 30 km south of Rotorua. The hot water from a natural spring bubbles up from the ground into the cool waters of the creek, creating the warm water – which is why locals often call it ‘Hot n Cold.’ This is one of the most relaxing free experiences to enjoy in the rain. As the rain hits the water, the steam creates a cosy and relaxed atmosphere. This geothermal-heated stream is perfect for unwinding and soaking up a slice of New Zealand’s natural beauty.
Photo: The natural hot spring at Kerosene Creek will keep you warm on a rainy day in Rotorua. Credit: nzherald.co.nz photo by Ben Fraser
2. Explore the lakes with Rotorua Duck Tours
Why not explore the beautiful Rotorua lakes under the cover of a vehicle that’s designed to get wet? Rotorua Duck Tours is a great activity for the whole family. You’ll explore Rotorua via land and water on board New Zealand’s only genuine WW2 landing crafts. As you admire the views, you’ll be kept nice and dry with their clear, plastic roll down windows and they are now heated to keep you warm too!
3. Zipline through native forest with Rotorua Canopy Tours
Soaring through lush native forest on a zipline is an unforgettable experience, and it’s even more magical in the rain. In fact, a ziplining tour with Rotorua Canopy Tours is even better on a rainy day! The forest sparkles in the rain, the smell of nature fills the air and the damp atmosphere makes you feel alive and fresh among nature’s creation. There are two tours to choose from. Both experiences will take you through the untouched native forest via a network of ziplines and walking bridges.
The guides will also educate you about the conservation efforts and history of this beautiful rainforest. The Rotorua Canopy Tours guides will make sure you are prepared and provide wet weather gear from head to toe so there is so need to worry about getting wet.
Photo: Ziplining through native rainforest with Rotorua Canopy Tours on a rainy day is an incredible feeling. Credit: Rotorua Canopy Tours.
4. Enjoy a meal at Eat Street
Head to the city’s cool little dining precinct on Eat Streat and warm up with some delicious food. This awesome eating spot has a great atmosphere and the covered walkway has a retractable roof, so it’s the perfect all-weather eating spot. Plus, you’ll be able to keep warm with a thermally heated footpath and enjoy some awesome lighting at night.
5. Raft down the adrenaline pumping rapids with River Rats
Don’t let the weather stop you from white water rafting down the rapids of the Kaituna River. River Rats take you on a guided white water rafting trip down rapids and over a 7 metre waterfall – it is the highest commercial waterfall in New Zealand! River Rats gear you up with wet suits to keep you warm while you’re having the time of your life riding down the adrenaline pumping rapids.
Photo: Don’t let the weather stop you from doing one of the most adrenaline pumping things in Rotorua credit: River Rats
6. Walk in the Redwood forest
Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you can’t get out in nature. Rainy weather can enhance the natural beauty of the Redwood Forest. The stunning colours of the Redwood Forest come to life in the rain and the canopy will help to keep you dry. Just make sure you take some decent shoes for the wet weather.
7. Take some photos at the 3D Trick Art Gallery
Stay dry and creative indoors at the 3D Trick Art Gallery. With over 50 life-sized murals inspired by New Zealand, this gallery is a fun spot to let your imagination run wild. No need to book in advance – it’s the perfect option if the weather takes an unexpected turn.
8. Have some fun indoors at Motion Entertainment
Motion Entertainment is New Zealand’s largest indoor entertainment centre and offers something for everyone. From escape rooms and mini golf to laser tag, trampoline parks, and bowling, there’s no shortage of activities. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the café to recharge.
