Hi - I'm researching Things to Do in Rotorua, New Zealand (I'll only be there for a day) and I could use some suggestions. Looking to explore Maori culture and hangi, and visit some geothermal wonders and bathe in some natural hot springs or mud baths. But there are so many options! Any advice? Maybe something off the beaten path where we can experience some of these things.
We spent a good part of a day at Te Puia which included a guided geothermal walk, a Maori village, a cultural show, and a meal which included hangi. Recommend it.
I was there in late 2019 - things can change, but with a quick look, major sites seem the same.
I also spent most of the day at Te Puia as did CJean above. It should provide everything you are looking for (except a bathing experience), even if not off the beaten path.
https://www.tepuia.com
The other major site which came highly recommended is Whakarewarewa. I didn't have time for both and found Te Puia with its kiwi conservatory more to my interests.
https://whakarewarewa.com
I didn't go to any of the thermal spa places.
We visited Rotorua and had a memorable Maori experience, we were on a tour that included this in the tour.
Do you have an overnight? Or just a portion of a day?
We'll just be there for the day. Has anyone been to Hell's Gate?
I will be there next month. Some advice says to use a swimsuit or clothing you can throw away if doing the full mud bath (because it’s so hard to get the smell out). Other activities mentioned , other than the good suggestions you have above, are the Redwood Treetop Walk - and on a lighter note, mini golf with rabbits. Or you could book a tour to Waitomo Cave. I haven’t used them, but Ready2Roll has been recommended.