Top Rotorua Sporting Events

Get a true adrenaline rush with this Rotorua karting and monster 4x4 experience. Based at New Zealand’s newest and longest kart sport circuit, take the wheel of a go-kart and race around the track, reaching speeds of nearly 100km per hour. Next, jump in a monster 4x4 as your professional driver takes you on an exhilarating journey through native forest.

Soar through a 1,000-year-old native New Zealand forest on six ziplines reaching speeds up to 37 miles (60 kilometers) per hour. Cross suspended swing bridges and explore treetop platforms while looking out for native birds such as toutouwai and kererū. This half-day guided eco-adventure includes free digital photos, wet-weather gear, and return transport, with every booking supporting forest restoration. Suitable for families and groups of all ages.

Treat yourself to a therapeutic mud bath and sulfur spa package at Hells Gate Geothermal Park. Located in one of Rotorua’s most active geothermal zones, Hells Gate features mud bath treatments that leave your body rejuvenated and skin smooth. You also have the option to cool off with a dip in waterfall pools after your treatment.

Blast around Lake Rotorua on a jet boat tour! An expert driver spins you around on an adrenaline-infused adventure and delivers you at top-speed to all of the iconic landmarks. Experience 30 action-packed minutes of family-friendly fun as you hear live narration on the history of the area. Select from multiple departure times; spray jackets included.

While in Rotorua, take a wild and wacky ride in an inflatable ZORB ball. Enjoy the thrill of rolling downhill inside an inflatable ball with water to make things more slippery and fun. After instructions from the knowledgeable team, experience the world’s longest zig-zag Sidewinder Track and the smooth-and-fast double Straight Track.

Get out of your comfort zone on this challenging bush safari outside Rotorua. This self-drive experience by 4-passenger 4WD vehicle takes you over steep climbs and descents, with guided instruction via 2-way radio as you navigate waterfalls, lunges, and tunnels. Safety briefing and equipment are provided so you can tackle the off-road trails confidently. This is a fun, family-friendly activity.

Enjoy the thrill of driving a 4-wheel drive through rugged New Zealand terrain with this experience. With a professional guide at your side, take the wheel and head though unique and challenging forest routes. Following this, get an adrenaline rush from riding in a massive monster 4x4, this time with your guide in the drivers’ seat.

Ride along dirt tracks and trails on a 30-minute or 1-hour 4WD adventure in Rotorua, and experience New Zealand off-roading. You’ll explore rolling farmland and scenic native forests with an professional guide who will drive you to a viewpoint overlooking Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island. This small-group 4WD tour is limited to five participants per buggy.

Understanding Māori culture takes more than a quick stop, and the stories tied to the land are best heard from the people connected to it. Join a guided half-day tour in Mourea, starting at the Rotorua Museum for regional context before traveling to local whenua (land). Hear the stories of the area and its people, and take in the views across this part of Aotearoa.

Enjoy an adrenaline rush from this 4-wheel drive adventure and kart racing experience in Rotorua. First drive a Suzuki 4WD through native New Zealand forest, with a guide at your side to help you navigate. Then enjoy racing around New Zealand’s longest karting track in a kart that can reach speeds close to 100km per hour.

Located just five minutes from downtown Rotorua, the Whakarewarewa Forest features 100 miles (160 km) of twisting mountain bike trails. Book your bike hire for a half-day ride through this redwood terrain, considered one of the region’s top trail networks. You’ll find a variety of paths for all abilities on this self-guided bike tour.