Bring on the geysers! Bring on the mud baths! Bring on the hot springs!
We’re heading to Rotorua, New Zealand for a whole lot of fun in the land of mountains, lakes, and geothermal activity galore. Not to mention the lively traditional Maori culture.
Rotorua is a popular destination for national and international tourists alike. However, that doesn’t make it any easier to choose the best place to stay in Rotorua. Rotorua actually encompasses a rather large district, so your decision can change your whole experience.
Lucky for you, us expert travel writers went to work putting this Rotorua neighborhood guide together. With your Rotorua guide in hand, your life just got a whole lot easier. So wipe the sweat off your brow and crank your stress levels back down to zero: the hard works all been done for you.
Sit back, relax, and read our Rotorua neighborhood guide to choose the BEST place to stay in Rotorua for you. I’ve even broken it down into handy dandy sections based on your preferences, like budget, nightlife, and those essential cool vibes.
Happy Rotorua accommodation hunting, friends.
In a tizzy already? We’ll cut right to the chase to give you our top two highest recommendations for places to stay in Rotorua. If you’re keen on keeping the travel costs low, why not check out Rotorua’s best hostels?
Pohutu Studio | Best Airbnb in Whakarewarewa
This cute little studio has definitely made its way into our heats. Super chic and comfortable, the Airbnb feels like a proper home. It’s close to a lot of attractions and the main town. We have to say that getting around is easier with a car, but your host can help you with good rental services.
Rock Solid Backpackers Rotorua | Best Hostel in Rotorua
Rock Solid Backpackers is perfectly located in Downtown, where all the nightlife and fun is happening! If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, head on over to Rock Solid Backpackers for cheap rates and a friendly atmosphere.
The common space comes equipped with couches aplenty and a ping-pong table. You’re sure to make a few friends at Rock Solid!
Peppers on the Point, Lake Rotorua | Best Hotel in Rotorua
Peppers on the Point is located right on the shore of Lake Rotorua. The hotel has its very own private beach to enjoy. There’s also a glorious swimming pool, sauna, and on-site spa.
These facilities sure are luxurious! The rooms all come with a small kitchenette so guests can make their own tea, coffee, or snacks. Who doesn’t want some homemade popcorn after a long day at the beach?
Whakarewarewa
Staying in Whakarewarewa is sure to delight. It’s the home of the Living Maori Village, and is one of New Zealand’s most iconic attractions.
Ohinemutu
Ohinemutu is a suburb of Rotorua that actually has an official population of less than 300. It is over 80% populated by local Maori people, as it is a living Maori village and the original settlement of Rotorua.
Downtown Rotorua
Downtown Rotorua is definitely where to stay in Rotorua for nightlife. There is so much happening in downtown Rotorua.
Mourea & Okere Falls
If you’re seeking a secluded holiday or getaway, nestle yourself inside nature in Mourea and Okere Falls. Mourea and Okere Falls are situated right on the water and are hands down the coolest places in Rotorua.
Kawaha Point
Kawaha Point is just north of Rotorua city center, located only five minutes from Rotorua’s city center. Kawaha Point is where to stay in Rotorua for families as it is nestled near the Rainbow Springs Nature Park, and snuggled next to the Purakau Bay of Lake Rotorua.
If you’re backpacking New Zealand, take a few days to stop over in Rotorua. It’s an incredible city about 230km southeast of Auckland.
Its population clocks in at around 72,500 in the entire Rotorua District. The Lakes of Rotorua are a vast collection of lakes that are sprinkled throughout the Rotorua district.
Way back in the day, the 14th century to be specific, the Maori settled in the Rotorua area. And today, 34% of the population of Rotorua is Maori.
When visiting Rotorua, you can expect to see many cultural performances and dancing, and incredibly delicious hangi, which are traditional steam-cooked banquets.
But not everything in Rotorua is quite so appetizing. You know what geothermal activity means? Sulphur.
You know what sulfur smells like? Rotten eggs. Unfortunately, those luxurious hot mud paths and sparkling geysers come with a little bit of a price: smelly air.
The aroma of sulfur doesn’t saturate the entire city and area, but we wouldn’t want to leave something out of your Rotorua neighborhood guide that would catch you by surprise— a stinky surprise.
Regardless, there are many amazing areas of Rotorua to explore and lots of great areas of where to stay in Rotorua to choose from. Let’s dive in!
5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Rotorua
Rotorua is a large district that offers visitors lots of unique places to stay in that are specific to what your heart desires, whether it’s a happy wallet or a cool atmosphere, we’ll cover it all here in your Rotorua neighborhood guide. So let’s get started…
#1 Whakarewarewa – Where to Stay in Rotorua for Your First Time
Staying in Whakarewarewa is sure to delight. It’s the home of the Living Maori Village and is one of New Zealand’s most iconic attractions.
It is home to the T?hourangi Ng?ti W?hiao people, and you can take a guided tour with a local, enjoy a concert performance, and take part in a traditional feast.
Whakarewarewa is often simply called Whaka by locals. It’s a semi-rural geothermal area, that is home to 500 pools. What’s even cooler? Or should we say hotter?
Most of the 500 pools are hot springs! In Whakarewarewa, there are also around 65 geyser vents – and seven of the geysers are currently active and ready to dazzle you.
Whakarewarewa is one of the best neighborhoods in Rotorua to stay in as it’s full of bubbling mud, hot pools, geysers, and traditional Maori culture. Also, it is only a few minutes drive away from the city centre.
Pohutu Studio | Best Airbnb in Whakarewarewa
This cute little New Zealand Airbnb has definitely made its way into our heats. Super chic and comfortable, the Airbnb feels like a proper home. It’s close to a lot of attractions and the main town. We have to say that getting around is easier with a car, but your host can help you with good rental services.
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park | Best Hostel in Whakarewarewa
The Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park is nestled in the Whakarewarewa Forest in a park-like grounds location. It’s one of the coolest places to stay in Rotorua if you’re looking to stay in a natural setting in a budget-friendly hostel.
There are 6-bed dorms available, and guests are allowed access to park facilities like free hot thermal pools, outdoor swimming pools, and BBQ facilities.
Regal Palms Resort | Best Hotel in Whakarewarewa
Visiting Rotorua is the biggest delight when you’re staying at this resort. All guests have access to a fitness center, swimming pool, and BBQ area. Whether you choose the studios, suites, and apartments, everyone gets self-catering facilities which saves you a tonne on your food bill. With free parking too, it’s an easy solid choice.
Things to See and Do in Whakarewarewa
- Visit the Living Maori Village and catch a cultural dance and music performance and a traditional feast
- See all seven of the active geysers in Whakarewarewa, make sure to see Pohutu Geyser which erupts every hour and soars up to 30 meters high
- Take a dip in as many hot springs as you can
- Visit the NZMACI (NZ Maori Arts & Crafts Institute) and check out all the beautiful traditional art and craft displays
- Chow down on an enormous buffet meal at Chapman’s Bar and Restaurant
- Go biking in the famous mountain biking tracks in the Whakarewarewa Forest
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Ohinemutu – Where to Stay in Rotorua on a Budget
Ohinemutu is a suburb of Rotorua that actually has an official population of less than 300. It is over 80% populated by local Maori people, as it is a living Maori village and the original settlement of Rotorua.
Ohinemutu is home to four marae, which are communal or sacred spaces, used for both social and religious purposes. Visiting the marae, and being so close to Lake Rotorua make Ohinemutu a great area in Rotorua to stay in.
Just a few minutes walk away from downtown, Ohinemutu only has a handful of accommodation options, almost all of which are fairly budget-friendly.
If you’re not looking to live like a sardine in a hostel setting, then head over to one of the budget-friendly Rotorua accommodation options we found in Ohinemutu!
Cosy Studio Rotorua Bay | Best Airbnb in Ohinemutu
Choosing where to stay in Rotorua on a budget, in Whakarewarewa it just got easier. Staying in Rotura isn’t extremely cheap, but this Airbnb is definitely one of the more affordable ones. You’ll get your own private studio for a great price, with a kitchen and free parking. The hosts are kind and caring, so if you need help or advice, feel free to reach out to them.
Cosy Cottage Thermal Holiday Park | Best Hotel in Ohinemutu
The Cosy Cottage Thermal Holiday Park is perfect for travellers out there who are watching their budget. It has its own beach and outdoor pool and it’s perfectly located close to the shore.
If you were curious, the Rotorua International Airport is only a 15-minute drive away.
Bella Vista Motel | Best Motel in Ohinemutu
Cleveland Thermal Motel is budget friendly and recently renovated motel in Rotorua. The garden is an added bonus for those who want a little extra time in the sunshine. It’s walking distance to the geothermal springs and bubbling mud pools of Rotorua so it’s a perfect location for nature lovers too. Some rooms come with a kitchenette so you can cook your own meals too!
Things to See and Do in Ohinemutu
- Visit the four marae meeting houses and centers
- Stop by the Anglican Church for a beautiful photo opportunity, right on the lake
- Explore Kuirau Park and soak your toes in the geothermal foot baths or go for a long soak in the hot springs
- Bathe in the mud pools at Kuirau Park, what’s even better for those budget-friendly tourists out there? The mud pools and the entire park is free!
- Go fishing or boating on Lake Rotorua, or simply enjoy a long walk on the beach
#3 Downtown Rotorua – Where to Stay in Rotorua for Nightlife
Downtown is definitely where to stay in Rotorua for nightlife. There is so much happening in the city centre.
So for those who don’t want to have a sleepy vacation on the beach or a super active nature-based trip, but rather something in the middle, Downtown is the place for you.
With the highest concentration of hotels and hostels, you’ll find that most of your fellow travelers are staying right here in one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Rotorua— Downtown!
Enjoy a night out on the town at one of the many bars and pubs in Rotorua. From Bar Zazu to Sidepocket to Pig & Whistle Historic Pub, no matter the atmosphere you are looking for you, the bars are plentiful and the beer is flowing!
Central Cottage | Best Airbnb in Downtown Rotorua
If you’re a nightlife enthusiast, this Airbnb is the right one for you. The cottage is homey so it’s ideal to come back to rest your weary feet (and head), but close to the busy area and has every amenity you need. Start the evening in the garden with a few cans and ease up the morning after by the fireplace.
Rock Solid Backpackers Rotorua | Best Hostel in Downtown Rotorua
Rock Solid Backpackers is conveniently located in Downtown in a densely populated area with shops, bars, and restaurants. There is an excellent common space with a ping-pong table and tons of comfortable couches.
The rooms are nice and spacious, and as an added perk the bathrooms all come with hairdryers! Not always so common where hotels are concerned. What a treat!
Prince’s Gate Hotel | Best Hotel in Downtown Rotorua
Prince’s Gate Hotel is a very stylish and sleek 4-star hotel in Rotorua, right downtown.
Coming with a spa and wellness center, a Jacuzzi, and an outdoor heated pool that includes a mineral bath, you’re sure to have a delightful stay at Prince’s Gate Hotel. Sip a glass of wine at their in-house bar and restaurant and soak up the snazzy ambience.
Things to See and Do in Downtown Rotorua:
- Trek on over to Sulphur Point to see the formation of sulphur crystals
- Tour the Museum and Government Gardens (note that the inside of the museum is closed for renovations but the outdoor grounds are free to tour)
- Experience Maori culture at Tamaki Maori Village and try to catch a performance
- Sample culinary delights at the Rotorua Night Market, happening year-round on Thursdays but always check their Facebook page to be sure
- Walk the Geothermal Walking Track and see take in the natural beauty of Rotorua in all its splendor
- Drink a pint at the Pig & Whistle Historic Pub
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Mourea & Okere Falls – Coolest Place to Stay in Rotorua
If you’re seeking a secluded holiday or getaway, nestle yourself inside nature in Mourea and Okere Falls.
Mourea and Okere Falls are situated right on the water and are hands down the coolest places in Rotorua.
Mourea is situated on a small strip of land that sits between Lake Rotorua and Lake Rotoiti. What’s one lake when you can have two!
Okere Falls is one of Rotura’s best neighborhoods as it’s home to the famous waterfall–Okere–and is located on the shore of the Okere Inlet of Lake Rotoiti. Mourea and Okere Falls dwell directly next to each other and are around 20km from the Roturua city center.
While it may be a bit off the path, these two areas are full of all the solitude and serenity travelers could wish for!
They are some one of the best neighborhoods in Rotorua to stay in because of they are both quiet, tranquil, and brimming with the glory of nature.
All stirred up with quite a bit of luxury. Even if you are wondering where to stay in Rotorua for one night, put Mourea and Okere Falls at the top of your list. You’re sure to have a memorable stay.
The Love Shack | Best Airbnb in Mourea and Okere Falls
We’re not lying when we say that this Airbnb is a true gem. Check it out yourself! The location is very peaceful, but still within walking distance to the Okere Falls, shops and restaurants. You can explore the area around you or enjoy the stylish and modern inside of your home, which offers a comfy living space, a patio and an amazing view.
VR Rotorua Lake Resort | Best Hotel in Mourea and Okere Falls
VR Rotorua Lake Resort is pure luxury. This beautiful 4-star resort has all the amenities a guest could ever dream of. Enjoy the outdoor heated pool and the tennis courts, or take a relaxing break inside their sauna or Jacuzzi.
Rooms have private terraces to enjoy the views of both lakes, as VR Rotorua Lake Resort sits on the strip of land between Lake Rotura and Lake Rotoiti.
Kuirau Chalet Villa | Best Rental in Mourea and Okere Falls
This cozy and comfortable rental is available right on the shore of Rotoiti Lake. The rooms are furnished to make your lake stay as quiet and peaceful as possible. Take a break from busy hotel life and relax. There is also a swimming pool for those who want to take a break from the sand for a while. It’s fully self-catering to enjoy some home-cooked meals.
Things to do and see in Mourea and Okere Falls
- Visit Okere Falls and hike to Tutea’s Cave
- Feel the thrill of adventure and go rafting through Tutea Falls
- Fish for some beautiful New Zealand Rainbow Trout in Lake Rotoiti
- Hike around the mountains around Lake Rotoiti
- Sip afternoon tea and visit the beautifully restored Moose Lodge
#5 Kawaha Point – Best Neighborhood in Rotorua for Families
Kawaha Point is just north of Rotorua city center, located only five minutes from Rotorua’s city center. Kawaha Point is where to stay in Rotorua for families as it is nestled near the Rainbow Springs Nature Park, and snuggled next to the Purakau Bay of Lake Rotorua.
It’s a welcoming city, where you can pass the time by the water, taking scenic walks around the lakeshore.
There’s also an incredible cycleway that leads to Kuirau Park in one direction or the village of Ngongotaha in the other. What’s a better way to spend the day than exploring Rotorua on bike with the family!
Kawaha Point is one of the best places to stay in Rotorua to unwind in an impressive community that is modern and nature-focused. Families that visit will find plenty of attractions to enjoy, from the Skyline Rotorua to the Zorb Rotorua inflatable ballpark!
Hands down, Kawaha Point is where to stay in Rotorua with kids given all the amazing, kid-friendly attractions and activities!
Lakeview Retreat | Best Airbnb in Kawaha Point
This Airbnb is perfect for families in every aspect. With 5 bedrooms, there’s plenty of space for starters. The location is very peaceful, but still with great connections to the city and all the tourist hotspots including the Whakarewarewa thermal reserve. The garden is secured with fences so you can watch your kids play from the conservatory without any worries.
On The Point – Lake Rotorua | Best Hotel in Kawaha Point
Peppers on the Point is right on the shore of Lake Rotorua. It is definitely where to stay with kids who love the beach. Guests will enjoy the private beach and on-site spa.
There are also outdoor tennis courses and a swimming pool to enjoy. Oh yes, there is a sauna too. With a hotel this comfortable, you may never leave!
Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Kawaha Point
The Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel in Rotorua is famous for its luxury 5-star hotel amenities and ambience. This particular Rotorua accommodation has amazing activities for guests to enjoy from a golf course to a sauna to a heated pool.
You are sure to feel pampered at the Black Swan.
Things to do and to see in Kawaha Point:
- Stop by the 3D Trick Art Gallery to take a walk on the wild side of art
- Hop into a giant inflatable ball at ZORB Rotorua and get ready for the whole world to get turned upside down!
- Float away on the gondolas at Skyline Rotorua and watch the whole area unfold all around you
- Head over to Karenga Park and join in on the regularly hosted, free community events
- Have a glass of wine or a delicious meal at Peppers on the Point
- See the darling Kiwi birds at the National Kiwi Hatchery
- Zip away at Rotorua Canopy Tours and enjoy the scenic forest zip line courses as you fly through the air
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Rotorua
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Rotorua and where to stay.
What To Pack For Rotorua
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Rotorua
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Rotorua
Rotorua, New Zealand is a beautiful place to visit for nature lovers, adventurers, or explorers. If you don’t feel like Zorbing or rafting, you can always sink your feet into soothing hot pools or take a dip in a mud bath. The geothermal activity in Rotorua offers visitors quite the experience!
If you’re looking for the coolest place to stay in Rotorua, look no further than Mourea and Okere Falls. Peaceful lakeside hotels offer guests complete and total serenity. Our favorite is the luxurious VR Rotorua Lake Resort.
Craving a night out on the town? The area of Rotorua with the best nightlife is definitely Downtown. Staying at Rock Solid Backpackers hostel, you’re guaranteed to feel a part of the social scene.
Where to stay in Rotorua with families is definitely, absolutely, totally Kawaha Point. As one of the best neighborhoods in Rotura to stay in with kids, it is filled with fun activities for the whole family. Our favorite family-friendly hotel is On the Point.
Do you have any Rotorua travel tips to share? Share them here in the comments below!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around New Zealand.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Rotorua.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Oceania backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Photo: @themanwiththetinyguitar
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
