Rotorua Lakes - Lakes near Rotorua New Zealand. Sometimes described as the Lakes District of the North Island, the Rotorua region has an abundance of picturesque waterways, including 16 lakes of varying sizes.

Rotorua Lakes

Sometimes described as the Lakes District of the North Island, Rotorua is a region of picturesque waterways, including 16 lakes of varying sizes, formed by the volcanic activity of the Central Plateau. The lakes range from magnificent Lake Rotorua, formed in a volcanic depression or 'caldera', to Lake Rotokawau, a small crater lake. The most magnificent example of bodies of water being volcanically sculptured is Lake Taupo, the largest lake in the North Island, the second deepest in New Zealand, and the enduringly beautiful leftover of a large scale eruption.

Activities are plentiful, as is the fishing! 15 of the region's lakes boast trout of three varieties, rainbow, brown and brook, and the lakes are abundant in great spots for picnics and swimming. From pleasurable cruises aboard vessels ranging from the spectacular Lakeland Queen to the fun WWII amphibious vehicle, the lakes of Rotorua offer visitors a diverse and enjoyable experience for the whole family.


The Lakes


Lake Rotorua

The second largest lake in the North Island, the city of Rotorua lies at its Southern-most point.

Lake Rotoiti, Rotoehu & Rotoma

Surrounded by native bush, these lakes are popular holiday destinations.

Lake Okataina

With sandy beaches and crystal blue sparkling water, this is one of New Zealand’s most magnificent lakes.

Lake Tarawera

The largest of the lakes that are nestled beneath Mount Tarawera, home to Hot Water Beach.

Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokakahi (The Blue and Green Lakes)

Tikitapu and Rotokakahi are two small lakes lying between Lake Rotorua and Lake Tarawera, nick-named for their brilliant blue and green hues.

Lake Rotomahana

The deepest of the Rotorua lakes, featuring steaming rock walls and the purest strain of rainbow trout in the world.

Lake Rerewhakaaitu

The only lake in the region surrounded by flat land and a popular camping destination.


See a complete list of the Rotorua region accommodation.

This week's featured accommodation at the Rotorua region is:

Featured Accommodation

Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort

Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort

Hotel, Luxury Accommodation, Luxury Resort, Resort - Rotorua

Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort - New Zealand's only Cultural Destination Spa Resort. Stay and indulge yourself in our 4.5 star luxury, lakeside Rotorua accommodation. After a long day of exploring Rotorua, pamper yourself in our internationally acclaimed Wai Ora Day Spa with complimentary use of hot mineral pools, and kawakawa infused sauna & steam room.

About the Resort

Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua, this luxury hotel is just a 3-minute drive from Rotorua Airport. A... More...

Hairy Berry Backpacker Hostel

Hairy Berry Backpacker Hostel

Backpacker, House Share, Student Accommodation - Te Puke

"Feels like home" So come Stay & Play in the Bay... clean, friendly, relaxed... peaceful & quiet, situated right on the corner No 1 Road, Te Puke and the Pacific Coast Highway, between Tauranga and Rotorua. Perfect if you are looking for comfortable budget accommodation. An ideal stop-over for individuals and groups of 12 - 60 people. Te Puke is one of NZ's best locations in the Bay of Plenty, if you want to get away from the Rat race but still be only a short drive to everything. We are... More...

Rainbow Holiday House

Rainbow Holiday House

Apartment Accommodation - Rotorua

Offering a garden and lake view, Rainbow Holiday House is situated in Rotorua, 2.3 km from Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park and 5 km from Polynesian Spa. The air-conditioned accommodation is 500 metres from Lake Rotorua, and guests benefit from private parking available on site and free WiFi. The apartment has 1 bedroom, a TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 1 bathroom with a bath or shower. Tamaki Maori Village is 5 km from the apartment, while... More...

The Barn in Rotorua New Zealand

The Barn in Rotorua New Zealand

Holiday Home Accommodation - Rotorua

Situated in Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty region, The Barn in Rotorua New Zealand features a mountain view. This air-conditioned holiday home comes with a kitchen, a seating area, a dining area and a flat-screen TV. Hiking can be enjoyed nearby. Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park is a 9-minute walk from the holiday home, while Polynesian Spa is 2.5 km away. The nearest airport is Rotorua Airport, 7 km from The Barn in Rotorua New Zealand. More...

Kowhai & Colonial Motel

Kowhai & Colonial Motel

Motel Accommodation - Rotorua

Guests at Kowhai and Colonial Motel can relax in one of 2 natural hot mineral pools or in the 10-metre heated swimming pool. Each studio and apartment includes digital satellite TV and free WiFi access. Located opposite the Kuirau Geothermal Park, this motel is only 150 metres from restaurants and cafes in Rotorua city centre. Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve is a 15-minute drive away. Heating and tea/coffee making facilities are included in each unit. Most also include self-catering cooking... More...


Panoramic View Apartment - Bed and Breakfast.

Located in Rotorua and only 2.3 km from Te Puia, Panoramic View Apartment provides accommodation with city views, free...

Waitomo Caves and Rotorua (Te Puia) Tour from Auckland in Small GroupsWaitomo Caves and Rotorua (Te Puia) Tour from Auckland in Small Groups - Day Tour - Auckland. Starting from $255.00 per person.

Visit two of the North Island's most popular attractions in one day. Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Rotorua (Te Puia...

 

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