MAORI CULTURE
by kiwigal_1
Rotorua is considered to be one of the main centres of Maori Culture in New Zealand. For many years there were trained Maori guides who led tourists around the different natural sites surrounding Rotorua. Even today many guides in the area are ancestors of these people. The main tribe in the Rotorua area is the Te Arawa tribe. Most Maori are urbanised but traditionally they lived on Pa's communally. There are still a few Marae (meeting grounds) around the Rotorua area and at least two traditional villages (Ohinemutu and Whakarewarewa).
You Cannot Go Wrong
by Kakapo2 about The Lone Star
It is nearly impossible to critisize a lot in a Lone Star Café and Bar, and the one in Rotorua is no exception. Perhaps one thing: I was there in winter, and it was rather chilly in the restaurant, with an air draught, until the hot soup arrived and heated me up.
I would not call the food sophisticated, to challenge your palate, but hearty and authentic, and everything comes in huge portions. Many people ask for doggy bags... Especially after having had one of those huge loaves of bread as a starter.
Most salads are overpriced, whereas stuff like nachos and pizza are good value for money. Our vegetarian at the table was not delighted of the poor choice (only some salads on a cold day, and a vegetarian burrito at $24.50) but as he is not very picky at least he got satisfied.
Most mains slightly under $30, so you will not have a cheap evening at the Lone Star.
Maori Concert
by Imbi
Maori concert I is the main key feature when you visit Maori Arts & Crafts Institute. It runs through out the year and you could enjoy and learn about Maori cultural. But make sure that you get their before midday because there is only one show at midday every day.
Price
Adult £6
Kids £ 3
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
by Rodan44
The Rotorua area is well known for its geothermal activity, and the best place to experience these natural wonders up close is at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. The park encompasses a large area of impresive geothermal pools, rivers, geysers, and mud pools. Even before you enter the park you can see the steam rising from the earth and smell the sulphur in the air.
Once inside, you are free to explore unguided at your own pace. The most impressive site is the large champagne pool, with billows of hot steam and dizzying array of bright colors. There is also the Lady Knox Geyser which erupts daily at 10.15am. Just a short drive outside the park are the bubbling mud pools, which are also well worth a visit.
Kuirau Park
by kenmerk
Nice geothermal area on the north east side of town. A well manicured green park with you occasional boiling caudron interspersed.
Great place for an evening stroll waiting for the sun to set and the Rotorua night life to begin. (This park has the distinct advantage of being FREE, unlike many of the geothermal areas around Rotorua...)
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Outside the Top Ten site
View on the Lone Star
Fitzgerald Glade
Chicken Sandwich
