East Coast and the Volcanic Zone Travel Guide

Guidebooks

Fodor's New Zealand
Trade Paperback

Photo: (c) Martinma | Dreamstime.com

When you get to Rotorua, after a trip through the rolling, sheep-speckled fields of the Waikato and the wild Mamaku Ranges, the aptly named "Sulfur City"—with its mud pots, geysers, and stinky air—comes as a complete surprise. Rotorua, the mid-island's major city and Maori hub, has been a tourist magnet since the 19th century, when Europeans first heard of the healing powers of local hot springs.

East Coast and the Volcanic Zone Hotels

Accommodations range from superexpensive lodges to multistory hotels and a great selection and price range of motels. Another excellent option is the bed-and-breakfast...read more

Fodor's Choice

East Coast and the Volcanic Zone Restaurants

Rotorua has the area's most diverse dining scene. You can find anything from Indian to Japanese fare, or try a Maori hangi (meal cooked in an earth oven...read more

Things To Do in East Coast and the Volcanic Zone

Explore the best sights, entertainment, and shopping with our top choices and insider tips.

$1298* -- New Zealand 'Spring' Fares from West Coast, R/T Air New Zealand

* Some taxes, fees additional

East Coast and the Volcanic Zone Experiences

Top Reasons to Go to the East Coast and the Volcanic Zone

Hiking and Walking: The eastern coast of the North Island has several excellent bushwalking trails, including the Tongariro Crossing, which brings... Read more
Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is the oldest national park in New Zealand and the largest on the North Island. Gifted to the nation by the Ngati Tuwharetoa... Read more
Te Urewera National Park

Te Urewera is New Zealand's fourth largest national park, and it protects the biggest area of native forest remaining on the North Island. The... Read more
The Hinemoa Legend

One of the great Maori love stories has a special local connection, because it takes place on Mokoia Island in Lake Rotorua—and it's a... Read more
Dinner on the Rocks

Rotorua, the cultural home of the Maori, is the best place to experience a hangi, a traditional Maori feast for which the meal-to-be is cooked... Read more
The Elusive Te Kooti

Of all the Maori leaders who opposed the early Pakeha settlers in New Zealand, Te Kooti was the most elusive and most awe inspiring. He was born... Read more

News & Features

News, Airlines

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US Airways launched a new app for passengers this week, letting them book flights, find airport maps,... Read more
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