Thermal & Cultural Parks in Rotorua

Bubbling mud and steaming vents are commonplace in Rotorua – the geothermal capital of New Zealand. Explore one of the many thermal parks, many which are coupled with a Maori cultural experience. Ask at Tuscany Villas reception or contact us online for advice on which cultural or thermal park is best for your needs.




Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Known as the world’s youngest geothermal system, Waimangu Volcanic Valley was created when Mount Tarawera erupted in 1886, creating the 7 craters that make up the valley and exploding Lake Rotomahana to 20 times its initial size. The crater lakes, each a distinct colour create stunning photo opportunities, along with an abundance of pristine native bush to explore. Pack your walking shoes and your camera and visit during your next Rotorua holiday!


Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland
Wai-o-tapu, meaning sacred waters in Maori offers the ultimate Rotorua experience in geothermal wonders. Begin your journey with a visit to the Lady Knox Geyser which erupts daily at 10.15am. The geyser reaches 10 to 20 metres into the sky! In our thermal area, follow the well marked tracks around this naturally colourful area. Experience the brightness of the world famous Champagne Pool, the many different shades of green of the hot and cold pools and the steaming ground. Don’t forget to visit the Mud Pool before you leave and marvel at the bubbling and popping of the erupting mud.


Mitai Maori Village
Mitai Maori Village offers evening experiences, hangi meals, cultural performances (including tales, everyday ancient maori life and importance of dance, song, tattoos and carvings, see warriors traveling down the stream in a hand carved waka (canoe), visit the Fairy Springs and glow worms at night on a guided bush walk,


Te Puia / Te Po
Te Puia is home to the New Zealand Maori Art and Crafts Institute and also the Pohutu geyser. Learn traditional Maori weaving and carving; explore the thermal valley with mud pools and boiling waters, visit the Marae, the kiwi house, or Te Po – our evening cultural experience, including a meal, entertainment and cultural storytelling.


Tamaki Tours
Experience Maori culture and history live at Tamaki Maori Village. Sit back and relax as you enjoy the tales of first chapter in the Chronicles of Uitara, the Journey of Ages. Here you’ll experience ancient ceremonies, welcomes and farewells, song dance and more!


Buried Village
The Buried Village offers an insight into the lives of the people of the Te Waiora Village, which was buried by lava and ash when Mount Tarawera unexpectedly and violently erupted in 1886. Over 150 people were killed during the disaster and destroyed the pink and white terraces. The Buried Village offers a loop track which allows you to explore the excavated area which was once the Te Waiora Village. See the buried cottages, the Rotomahana Hotel which collapsed under the weight of mud, the whare (Maori meeting house) and the museum with hundreds of stories and artifacts.
N-Duro Winter MTB Series
New Zealand's most popular MTB series, back for it's 8th year. Race in the world famous Whakarewarewa Forest trail network.Open to all mountain bike riders. Do one or do them all.
Sunday June 13, Sunday July 11, sunday August 15, 2010
Two down, one to go.
Sunday August 15, 2010> read more


Spring Hotfest - Rotorua 2010
 Don't miss the fun as Rotorua celebrates it's super hot status with a week full of festive fun. A Spring holiday festival that's guaranteed to prove a hot  time,  From wine tastings to wall climbing, come join the fun and enjoy the daily events. September 24 - Thursday September 30 ,2010 <read more about Rotorua events