New Zealand in March means autumn’s on its way, with milder temperatures and stunning landscapes dappled in shades of red and gold. It’s an excellent time to explore the bucketloads of ancient and natural wonders that this spellbinding country is known for.
Rotorua’s Geothermal Wonders
Rotorua – which is located on the North Island – is a geothermal paradise and a must-visit destination in March as the cooler weather is so good for exploring the region’s unique, atmospheric landscapes.
With its bubbling mud pools, spouting geysers and awesome hot springs, Rotorua is not only spectacularly beautiful, but is also perfect for learning about the raw power of the Earth and how it formed.
If you’re spending March in New Zealand, you absolutely have to visit the awe-inspiring Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. While there, you’ll see the multicoloured Champagne Pool, the steaming hot Artist’s Palette and the powerful Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts daily with the water soaring up to 20 metres into the air for up to an hour.
You can also visit the archeological remains of Te Wairoa Buried Village, which was buried in the 4-hour-long 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera, killing over 150 people. There’s also other tours to traditional Māori villages, where you can learn about the importance of the geothermal landscape to the local iwi (tribe) and experience a traditional hāngī meal. Afterwards, have a spa day at the Hell’s Gate Mud Bath & Spas to unwind.
Rotorua for Thrill-seekers
After experiencing the wonders of Rotorua’s geothermal attractions, why not try some of the exhilarating activities that the area is known for? Zorbing – where you roll down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball – is an activity as fun as it is unique, while white water rafting adventures on the Kaituna River provide an unforgettable rush, especially when going over the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, Tutea Falls.
Ziplining through the lush native forests makes you feel like you’re flying through the treetops and the Skyline Gondola & Luge gives you a relaxed ride up a scenic hill, followed by a heart-thumping downhill ride on a gravity-powered cart. Velocity Valley is all about the thrills, but if that’s not your thing, our Things To Do in New Zealand page has so much more.
