Web Only: Rotorua Weekender

FOLLOW OUR TRAIL TO ROTORUA, CLOSE TO LAKE ROTOITI AND THE MUCH-LOVED HOLIDAY HOME OF THE REYNOLDS FAMILY, WHO FEATURE IN 'LITTLE SHACK ON THE LAKE' (ISSUE 23).

Words by Sharon Stephenson  Photograph by Tessa Chrisp

DID THE EARTH move for you? Maybe that’s because in Rotorua – or, as some like to uncharitably call it, Rotovegas – the geothermal activity that characterises the whole region means there’s a whole lot of shaking going on just under the earth’s surface.

Go

Located in the middle of the North Island, where four State Highways – 5, 30, 33 and 38 – converge. It’s about a three-hour drive from Auckland but your nasal passages will alert you to its presence long before you arrive... that sulphur smell is still as strong as ever!

Play

The Agrodome: Townies get a taste of rural New Zealand with this hour-long live sheep show that includes a display of 19 popular sheep breeds. www.agrodome.co.nz

The Zorb: NZ again leads the world in bizzare holiday activities with this ‘sport’ that lets you, and a bucket of water, roll down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball. www.zorb.com

Tamaki Maori Village: Travel back to pre-European times with a visit to this traditional Maori village set deep in the forest, 15 minutes south of Rotorua. Enjoy a traditional welcome and the delicious hangi. www.maoriculture.co.nz

The Luge: You can’t come here and not try the Luge, which was designed and built in Rotorua. There are three routes to chose from – and you’ll be rewarded with awesome views across the region. www.skylineskyrides.co.nz

Eat

Capers Epicurean, 1181 Ererua Street: With a string of awards its name – including Rotorua Café of the Year 2002, 2003, 2006 and 2007 – this licensed and BYO café is well worth a try. www.capers.co.nz

The Pig and Whistle, 1182 Tutanekai Street: Housed in the historic old police station, this beautiful bar/cafe serves Swine larger and food a notch above your average pub grub. www.pigandwhistle.co.nz

The Landing Café, Lake Tarawera: One of the few spots in the region where you can dine at the water’s edge. Enjoy one of their famous pizzas and a glass of red while you take in the stunning marine views. www.thelandinglaketarawera.co.nz

Sleep

Distinction Rotorua, 390 Fenton Street: A refurb last year tidied up this hotel and conference centre, and the suites now provide kitchen facilities for self-catering. There’s also a Japanese restaurant and heated pool. www.distinctionrotorua.co.nz

Broekhaven Country Cottage, 44 Kaska Road, RD2: Only 500m from Lake Rotorua, this self-contained country cottage is set on a two -acre lifestyle block near Hamurana Springs. www.broekhaven.co.nz

Treetops Luxury Lodge and & Estate, 351 Kearoa Road, RD1, Horohoro: Push the boat out with a stay at these luxurious suites and villas. Your wallet will take a pounding - but the accommodation and award-winning cuisine is worth saving your pennies for. www.treetops.co.nz