Hot Pools, Long Lunches And Lakeside Views: Here’s How To Spend 72 Hours In Rotorua

Are fluffy robes the best thing since sliced bread? We think so, and so do our pals at Rotorua NZ.

So much so, they’ve put together the official Robe Rules: Eat Well, Rest Easy, Stay. Which in our eyes double as travel gospel and the perfect excuse for a robe-based roadie.

So swap your waterproof jacket for a robe and hiking boots for slippers and check out how to spend a stress-free 72 hours in Aotearoa’s geothermal heart.

Day One:

First things first, take the Skyline Gondola up to Stratosfare Restaurant. One of the best buffets in the North Island, endless surf-and-turf, and a sparkling city view, it’s a Rotorua evening done right.

Next, it’s soak o’clock at Polynesian Spa. Mineral-rich, geothermal waters, 28+ pools, and Lake Rotorua views—your muscles will thank you. For full indulgence, treat your crew (or yourself) to the full-body polish and Aix massage, where a Vichy-style shower blasts away any lingering travel aches.

Check-in time? Head to On The Point, Rotorua’s luxe hideaway. 1930s charm, spa baths, lake views, and massages if you’re feeling fancy.

Dinner? This one is a non-negotiable. Head to Te Pā Tū and experience a full marae welcome before settling in for a multi-course feast that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients. Think hāngī-cooked vegetables, native herbs, charred meats and contemporary Māori dishes that honour tradition while pushing culinary boundaries. It's seriously a dining experience for the books. 

Day Two:

Wake up slowly. Brunch or breakfast, no judgment, but Eastwood is the place. Order their famous chilli eggs and secure one of the area's best flat whites. Soak it all in on one of the outdoor tables, and get some of that fresh morning air in your lungs.

Forgot your skincare? Make tracks to Hell’s Gates’ mud pools. Not only have they been used for generations by Māori to ease joint and muscle pain, but upon a visit to this special spot, you’ll also be treated to an up-close look at the region’s geothermal activity in the nearby thermal park.

Lunch calls at Okere Falls Store with rustic cafe vibes. Grab a snack, pie, or coffee, then wander the 2.8km Okere Falls track, with zero sensible footwear required.

After a quick bit of arvo shut-eye, you'll be well prepped for some glowworm kayaking with Taiao Adventures. Glide through glassy waters, look up at caves sparkling with glowworms, and float home under the Milky Way.

Night stay options? If you're in the mood to shake it up for night two, Toka Ridge is the place to book. Choose between one, two, three and four bedroom villas and prepare to soak up all the features that make Toka Ridge a true home away from home. Think, full kitchens, comfortable lounge areas inside and out, an indoor fireplace, a cedar hot tub just metres away, and beautiful views of the lake. 

Day Three:

Last day, let’s make this baby count, shall we? If you’re itching to try the forest-bathing trend, we know just the spot—Secret Spot Hot Tubs in the Redwoods. You’ll be wrapped by towering trees, birdsongs galore and a private cedar-wood tub.

Very much in the spirit of effortless adventure, step aboard The Airstream Project, a one-of-a-kind, hand-built, aluminium pontoon inspired by 1960s Airstreams, WWII aircraft, and Italian speedboats. Battery-powered and whisper-quiet, it glides across Lake Rotoiti, with fold-out sides and pivoting couches bringing you closer to the native bush, caves, and thermal waters. Perfect for private charters of up to 25 guests, it’s a floating work of art you’ll never forget.

We're back on land, and by golly, 72-hours is almost up. Depending on your flight or road-trip departure time, we suggest you sneak in a last cheeky sip at the tapas style Poco. Offering contemporary tapas and larger Mediterranean-inspired dishes, we recommend ordering the Salmon Crudi and the Harissa Grilled Eggplant alongside a series of locally inspired tipples. Name a better ending to your adventure, we'll wait. 

Feeling inspired to plan your Robe-trip? Get the low-down on every way you can stay, eat well and rest easy just a matter of hours from your hometown here.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Rotorua NZ and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why, read our editorial policy here.

Image credit: Supplied - On The Point Lake Rotorua,  Polynesian Spa, Hell's Gate.