10 Incredible Views Of Rotorua

Our top tips to find the most spectacular views in Rotorua.

Rotorua is high on the list of most visitors' plans when then come to New Zealand. It's easy to understand why with incredible natural geothermal attractions, Maori Cultural experiences, stunning lakes and the shear amount of fun activities to be had.

In today's world of instant photo gratification on photo sharing sites like instagram, we've put our own list of those must see places in Rotorua where you can just take in the view and click away.

1.  Te Puia

Head to Te Puia to see the largest geyser in the southern hemisphere.  Pohutu Geyser erupts up to 20 times a day and is the star attraction of Te Puia's 60 hectare thermal valley.2.  Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Formed from the volcanic eruption in 1886 of Mt Tarawera, Waimangu Volcanic Valley is a stunning geothermal park approximately 20 minutes from the centre of Rotorua.  One of the highlights is the incredible blue water of 'Inferno Crater'. 3.  Summit of Skyline Gondola

A family favourite with luge, flying fox and skyswing activities, the Skyline Gondola offers panoroamic views of Lake Rotorua on the way up/down.  Enjoy a lunch or dinner in the Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar to savour the scenic setting.4.  Lake Tarawera

Located 18 kilometres east of Rotorua, Lake Tarawera (in our opinion) is the most beautiful of the 16 plus lakes dotted around the region. During the summer it's a good spot for water activities and fishing.5.  Hells Gate

Kakahi Falls is the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere.  Visitors can catch the sight of these impressive falls with a visit to Hells Gate Geothermal Park and Mud Park and Spa.6.  Okere Falls

Okere Falls Scenic Reserve features four waterfalls over 11 kilometres of the Kaituna River and a series of Trout Pools. The emerald waters provide a thrilling experience for a number of rafting operators. From a viewing platform, visitors to the reserve can watch rafters surge over the seven metre Tutea Falls.7.  The Polynesian Spa

Relax and soak in the 26 hot pools of the Polynesian Spa and enjoy a glorious view of Lake Rotorua. Two nearby hot springs feed the therapeutic waters into this world renowned spa. 8.  The Redwoods

Situated in Whakarewarewa Forest, a few minutes' drive from the city centre, a visit to the The Redwoods is an opportunity to walk among towering Californian Redwoods.  A range of trails are available along with a decent visitor centre and gift shop.9.  Wai-O-Tapu

The 'Champagne Pool' at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is one of the most popular images of the Rotorua region.  The park is a popular attraction 30 kilometres from Rotorua and also features the Lady Knox geyser, bubbling mud pools and numerous richly coloured pools.10.  Rainbow Mountain

Rainbow Mountain Reserve Summit offers panoramic views of the region. The 3.5 kilometre Rainbow Mountain Summit Walk takes around 1.5 hours, from the car park to the top.  The walk is located in Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve, 26 kilometres from Rotorua and just off State Highway 5 as you head towards Taupo.