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Getting to Rotorua

Getting to Rotorua is a breeze, with convenient transport options that make reaching this iconic destination in New Zealand easy and enjoyable. Whether you're arriving from nearby towns or further afield, there’s a travel option to suit your journey.

By Air

The nearest airport is Rotorua Regional Airport (ROT), which offers regular domestic flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. The airport is just a short drive from the city centre, with rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services readily available to get you where you need to go.

By Car

Driving is one of the most popular ways to reach Rotorua. The city is well connected via State Highway 5 and State Highway 30, making travel from Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, and other nearby centres straightforward. Enjoy scenic routes through forests, geothermal landscapes, and rolling hills as you approach Rotorua.

By Bus

National bus services such as InterCity offer reliable connections to Rotorua from across the North Island, including Auckland, Hamilton, and Taupō. Buses arrive at central locations, with local transport and tour operators available to help you explore the city and its surroundings.

By Ferry

If you're travelling from the South Island, catch a ferry across the Cook Strait (via Interislander or Bluebridge) to Wellington. From there, continue by car or bus through the central North Island to reach Rotorua, enjoying stunning scenery along the way.

Rotorua, one of New Zealand’s most iconic geothermal and cultural destinations, is easily accessible from major cities across the country. Here are approximate travel times from some of the main centres:

Auckland to Rotorua:

By Car: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours (via State Highway 1 and State Highway 5).

By Air: Direct flights from Auckland Airport to Rotorua Airport take around 45 minutes.

Whakatāne to Rotorua:

By Car: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours (via State Highway 30).

By Bus: Bus services operate between Whakatāne and Rotorua, with travel times averaging around 2 hours.

Tauranga to Rotorua:

By Car: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours (via State Highway 36).

By Bus: Bus services run between Tauranga and Rotorua, with travel times ranging from 1.5 to 2 hours.

Wellington to Rotorua:

By Car: Approximately 6.5 to 8 hours (via State Highway 1 and State Highway 5).

By Air: Direct flights are available from Wellington to Rotorua, with a flight time of around 1 hour.