Transport options in Rotorua
Located at the heart of the central North Island, Rotorua is easily included
in any North Island itinerary. Arrive by road, train or plane, then make use of
the region's excellent roads to discover geothermal, cultural and scenic wonders.
Getting to and from Rotorua
By Road
Three major state highways (SH5 and SH30 and SH33) intersect with Rotorua. The
region is 234 kilometres from Auckland and 457 kilometres from Wellington. Rotorua
is a key destination on the touring route known as the Thermal Explorer Highway.
Major coach companies provide daily services to Rotorua.
By Air
Rotorua is a 40 minute flight from Auckland, a 75 minute flight from Christchurch
and 2 ½ hours from Queenstown. You can also fly to Rotorua from many provincial
airports.
Air New Zealand will run a twice-weekly service between Rotorua and Sydney commencing December 19, 2009.
Getting around Rotorua
Driving yourself around Rotorua is an exercise in simplicity. Most of the major
attractions are within a few kilometres of the city - Waimangu Volcanic Valley
and Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland are two of the most outlying attractions at
26 kilometres away.
With one exception, all the major hotels are within walking distance of Rotorua's
city centre - five are right in the central business district.
If you prefer not to drive, there are shuttle services (free or nominal cost),
taxis and a good city bus service. Independent tour operators are also available
to take you wherever you want to go.
Within a 150 kilometre radius (two hours drive) are the surf beaches of Waihi,
Mt Maunganui and Ohope; the National Parks of Tongariro and Urewera; Lake Taupo;
and the cities of Hamilton, Tauranga, Taupo and Whakatane.
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