A Day of Relaxation in Rotorua

Day 10 – Wednesday

After yesterday’s adventures, today was all about slowing down and recharging. Rotorua, nestled in New Zealand’s Taupo Volcanic Zone, is world-renowned for its geothermal activity — a landscape shaped by bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and erupting geysers. Thera are also geothermal wellness experiences and the city is often called the “Spa Capital of New Zealand”

Soaking at the Polynesian Spa

We spent the day at the Polynesian Spa, a lakeside retreat that blends natural beauty with wellness. Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua, the spa draws from two distinct geothermal springs: the acidic Priest Spring, known for easing muscle tension, and the alkaline Rachel Spring, which nourishes the skin. The site has a rich history — it was first popularized in the 1800s when a Catholic priest reportedly found relief from arthritis after bathing here. Since its official establishment in 1972, Polynesian Spa has become a cornerstone of Rotorua’s wellness tourism.

Wooden deck with wet footprints overlooking stone wall, trees, water, and cloudy sky.

Warning sign for 100°C thermal pool advising no climbing, entering, or bathing posted by Rotorua Lakes Council.

We tried several of the pools, each offering a different temperature and mineral composition. Despite the rainy and overcast weather, the warm waters and serene lake views made it the perfect place to unwind.

For those seeking something truly unique, Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa offers New Zealand’s only outdoor mud baths. Rich in minerals and steeped in Māori legend, these therapeutic mud treatments are said to ease aches and pains. We tought about driving there, but decided to just stay in town to day.

Dinner at Eat Street

In the evening, we wandered down to Eat Street, Rotorua’s vibrant dining precinct at the lake end of Tutanekai Street. This covered, thermally heated laneway is packed with restaurants, bars, and even an iconic ice cream parlour. Whether you’re craving tapas, steak, Indian, or Italian, Eat Street has something for every palate. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming — ideal for a relaxed dinner after a day of soaking. Naturally, we wrapped up the evening with our traditional card game session

Tomorrow, we’re heading to the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves.