Rotorua
If it's your first time in Rotorua, some things might be new to you, like the public transport system and finding your way around the city. This can be exciting but don't worry if you feel a little homesick. That's natural, especially in the first 12 months of living overseas.
One of the best things you can do to feel at home is to explore and experience your city. Then the things that are new become normal as you create a great life here.
Been in Rotorua for a while? Scroll down and see if you've visited all the places and landmarks listed below!
Quick facts
Population
Rotorua has a population of around 71,877 people(external link that opens in a new tab).
Fun fact
It's nicknamed 'Roto Vegas' (like Las Vegas) by locals. There's still some debate on where this nickname came from, but it's been around since the 1980s. Some believe it's inspired by a row of motels on Fenton Street that remind locals of Las Vegas!
Living in Rotorua
There are many ways to describe life in Rotorua. Here are two important ones:
City of lakes
Rotorua's full name is Te Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe, which means ‘the second great lake of Kahumatamomoe’, (an early Māori explorer). The city is actually home to 18 lakes and three major rivers – that's a lot of water! So it's a great place for swimming, kayaking and cooling down in the summer.
In Rotorua some lakes are tapu (sacred) to Māori, so it's important to be respectful of local beliefs and find out which ones you can visit.
Also remember to keep yourself and others safe in the water.
- Never swim alone.
- Check the weather forecast before you leave.
- And if you want to feel more confident in the water, try a lesson at the local pool!
World famous spa destination
In this city, you can see the earth moving! It has volcanic crater lakes, geysers and mud pools. These are amazing to watch and often great for the skin (if you go to the right pools(external link that opens in a new tab)). But they come with a little bit of a smell.
Don't be surprised if you get off the bus or the plane and it smells like eggs. This is actually the smell of sulphur, it's natural and the reason many people from all over the world visit Rotorua as a spa destination.
Tip: Visiting a hot pool? Always keep your head above the water!
Get useful information and important updates to make your life easier while you're living and studying in New Zealand.
Useful Rotorua websites
Here are a few suggestions to help you have a great experience and a safe time in Rotorua.
Rotorua NZ - Where to learn:(external link that opens in a new tab) Find information on study, activities and support for students in Rotorua.
Rotorua NZ - Live and work in Rotorua(external link that opens in a new tab): Find events, festivals, day walks and great places to eat in Rotorua.
Rotorua Lakes Council(external link that opens in a new tab): Find out how local government works and important information to help you with daily life in Rotorua. For example information on local parks, museums, libraries, recycling and the location of public toilets and other facilities. You can also follow the local council on Facebook(external link that opens in a new tab).
Travelling around Rotorua(external link that opens in a new tab): Learn how to get around your new home and its surrounding suburbs on public transport. Rotorua is a great place for walking and cycling. If you prefer the bus, find out which one you need to catch and how your student ID might help you save money on fares.
Whakarewarewa - The Living Māori Village(external link that opens in a new tab): Experience the culture and lifestyle of the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people. Learn how local tribes use the land's geothermal qualities for cooking, bathing and heating.
The Arts Village(external link that opens in a new tab): Interested in writing? Painting? Photography? You'll find many opportunities to be creative and meet locals at Rotorua's Arts Village.
Rotorua Hospital(external link that opens in a new tab): If there's a medical emergency and you or someone else's life is in danger, go to the local hospital or phone 111 (this emergency number gives you access to police, fire and ambulance services). If it's not urgent, make a doctor's appointment or visit a walk-in medical care clinic like Lakes PrimeCare(external link that opens in a new tab), which is open until 9.30pm.
Civil Defence – Emergency Management Bay of Plenty (includes Rotorua)(external link that opens in a new tab): New Zealand is a very safe place, but like anywhere in the world there is a chance a natural disaster could happen. This could be something like a flood, tsunami or earthquake. Civil Defence have information on how to prepare for a natural disaster and you can follow them on Facebook(external link that opens in a new tab) to keep up to date on what's happening.
Trade Me - Rooms in Rotorua(external link that opens in a new tab): If you're not staying in a homestay, you might need to find a room to rent. You can try Trade Me to find a place to live. Make sure to check how far your new home is from important places, like your place of study or job (if you're working part time).
Hāngi meal at Mitai Māori Village(external link that opens in a new tab): A hāngi (earth oven) is a traditional method of cooking food in New Zealand. Try delicious food prepared in this authentic Māori way.
Rotorua Farmers' Market(external link that opens in a new tab): Held on Sunday mornings from 9am-1pm, the local farmers' market is a great place to buy a delicious breakfast or cheap fruit and vegetables.
Redwoods Tree Walk(external link that opens in a new tab): Explore Rotorua's Redwood forest from a series of bridges 6-20 metres above the ground. You can walk the forest path during the day or at night. As an extra treat, in the evening you'll be surrounded by magical, award-winning lighting design.
Velocity Valley(external link that opens in a new tab): New Zealand is often called 'the adventure capital of the world' and you'll see why at the Velocity Valley. If you like a physical challenge, you can try bungy jumping, jet-boating, "flying" in a wind tunnel and more. It'll definitely be an experience to remember!
