Getting to and around Rotorua

Rotorua located in the Northland region of New Zealand is the most popular travel destination of the country. With majority of Maori population, Rotorua is famous for its warmth and hospitality. Getting to and around Rotorua is relatively easy, the city has wide spread road and railway network. With influx of tourists year round, transportation in Rotorua is never a problem.

Rotorua Airport is located about 10 kilometers east from the main city center. Rotorua airport operates daily connecting flights to and from main cities of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Taupo and Queenstown. Rotorua Airport supports domestic flights only, international travelers have to take connecting flights to Rotorua after flying to any of the major cities airport.

The railway station in Rotorua is located on the Lake Road, which is about 1 kilometer northwest of the town center. It is important to note that the station is open only at the time of arrival and departure of the train, so it is advisable to buy your tickets in advance. The main Geyserland train operates between the cities of Auckland and Rotorua.

Inter City Bus Service is the most popular bus service in Rotorua. Inter City buses run five times daily from Auckland and Rotorua. There are many other private tour operating companies providing services in Rotorua; Kiwi Experience and Magic Bus are the most popular one. Rotorua is considered as the transportation hub; it is easy to reach all the major cities in New Zealand, with the wide spread bus network available in Rotorua.

Road trip to Rotorua in car is a good experience. Rotorua is about three hours drive from Auckland. Roads in Rotorua are generally in good condition, and drivers follow the speed limits assigned by the city government. Traffic flow is usually higher in the morning and early evening hours. Most of the major tourist attractions are within few kilometers drive to the city. The majestic Waimangu Volcanic Valley and Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland are within the driving reach of about 26 kilometer.

You need to have a valid visa to visit Rotorua; however need for visa is waived on certain countries like USA, Australia Canada and France to name a few. It is however advisable to check on visa regularities for your particular countries before planning your trip to Rotorua. You can get complete information in this regard from the official government website.