One of the most diverse and unusual geographical regions on Earth, the central region of New Zealand’s North Island is truly remarkable. A faint odour of sulphur greets you as you enter Rotorua, home to geothermal parks bursting with clouds of steam, bubbling pools of mud, sulphurous crater lakes of vibrant greens and orange, and geysers erupting 20 metres into the air. Here is also the heart of Maori history and the place to discover the fascinating traditions of this warm, proud culture.
The popular town of Taupo sits on the shores of New Zealand’s biggest lake of the same name. Mighty Lake Taupo is framed by a dramatic volcanic landscape, and is a hub for thrillseekers. Try your hand at whitewater rafting, jet boating or sky diving, or attempt one of world’s Top 10 one-day treks and climb lava flows and craters on the alpine Tongariro Crossing, spanning the length of Mount Tongariro.
The North Island’s central region also plays host to charming award-winning cities, unspoilt national parks, underground caves and the active volcano of Mount Ruapehu, which becomes a ski resort in winter months.
See our hand-picked range of Rotorua, Taupo & Central Region hotels.
Rotorua, Taupo & Central Region highlights
• Discover a geothermal wonderland – a ‘must see’ is the brilliant Champagne Pool at Wai-O-Tapu, or take a short boat ride across to the lesser known but utterly beautiful Orakei Korako, meaning ‘hidden valley’.
• Take to the skies for an adrenalin-fuelled tandem sky dive over Lake Taupo – a thrilling experience with mesmerising views of the land and ocean.
• Visit the Kiwi House – a Kiwi conservation and breeding centre dedicated to giving a helping hand to the country’s flightless bird and national symbol.
• Experience a traditional Maori evening, complete with storytelling, entertainment and a sumptuous Maori ‘hangi’ feast, where food is cooked in a pit oven.
• Take on the challenge of the incredibly scenic Tongariro Crossing, a world-class one-day trek.
• Venture to the Waitomo Caves and take a boat ride through an underground grotto lit by thousands of luminescent glow-worms.
New Zealand Tailor Made Holidays
Don’t forget that with Kuoni you can create your own dream New Zealand holiday by customising your trip, choosing different combinations of nights, hotels and resorts.
• Request a copy of our superb Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific brochure
• Call our Personal Travel Experts on 01306 747002 who will be happy to talk you through your requirements and provide a personalised quotation
• Request a quote online
New Zealand Facts
Find out more about the history and culture of this wonderful country by visiting our information and facts page.