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Rotorua and Taupo

Rotorua is the star of most North Island itineraries. It is a geothermal wonderland set at the heart of Maori culture. Fill your day with bubbling mud, shooting geysers, swimmable hot pools and rivers, and luxurious lakeside spas. Take a scenic flight over an active volcano. Then eat your fill at a Maori feast (called a Hangi) and catch an unforgettable cultural dance performance.

Got more energy? Go zorbing, mountain biking or whitewater rafting. Head to Taupo for world class fly fishing and kayaking to Maori rock carvings. Or head further south to Tongariro (known as Mordor and Mt. Doom of Lord of the Rings) for the best and most challenging day hike in all of New Zealand (and probably of Earth).

Top Activities in Rotorua and Taupo, NZ:

Visiting steaming, bubbling geothermal sites
Maori cultural performances
Zorbing

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