Ah, so you’re planning a trip to Rotorua? You've probably got your daytime activities sorted - geysers, mud pools, maybe a cultural performance or the Redwoods walk. All good choices.
But Rotorua’s pretty special after dark, too. The geothermal steam looks different at night, the temperature drops, and a completely different set of activities opens up. Some of them you won't find anywhere else in New Zealand.
I spend most of my evenings on the water, but I've lived here long enough to know what else is worth doing once the sun goes down. Here's what I recommend.
For the thrill seekers: Skyline Luge
If you’ve got kids (or you’re a big kid at heart!), you can’t beat the night luge. You take the Gondola up the side of Mount Ngongotahā and then hop on a small cart to zoom down the winding track, with the lights of Rotorua below you.
Quick tip: Weeknights are quieter than weekends and school holidays if you want to avoid queues.
Perfect for: Families, groups, or anyone who doesn't take themselves too seriously.
For a bit of enchantment: Redwoods Treewalk
Walking high among the giant redwood trees is special at any time, but at night it’s otherworldly. The Redwoods Treewalk is a series of suspended bridges that have been beautifully lit with dozens of specially-designed lanterns.
As tempting as it can be to speed along all the bridges, it’s not a race. The best part is finding a quiet platform, leaning against the rail, and just taking a moment to soak it all in.
Quick tip: The bridges do have a bit of a wobble to them, so make sure you wear comfortable, flat shoes.
Perfect for: Couples, solo travellers, and anyone who loves a quiet, immersive experience.
For a little magic: our glow worm kayak tour
This experience will always have my heart. If you want to swap the city lights for a canopy of stars and glow worms, this is for you. We leave the town behind and paddle out onto the calm, dark waters of the lake, and head into secret coves that are completely inaccessible by land.
The moment we get everyone to turn off their headlamps and just float in silence is magic - the only light comes from the thousands of glow worms on the cliffs around you, and they all reflect perfectly on the water. It’s a special chance to truly connect with the taiao (nature) and feel the wairua (spirit) of this place.
Quick tip: Don’t worry if you’ve never kayaked before (most of our guests are first timers!) We’ll teach you everything you need to know to be safe and comfortable.
Perfect for: Solo travellers, couples, and small groups who want something peaceful, unique, and genuinely memorable.
For the adrenaline junkies: night riding in the forest
Whakarewarewa Forest is a world-famous mountain biking destination, and for experienced riders, taking on the trails at night is the ultimate thrill. It’s an intense and hugely rewarding challenge.
Quick tip: You need powerful lights (helmet and handlebars), you need to know what you're doing, and you should never ride alone. But if you're confident on technical trails and you want something that'll get your heart rate up, this is it.
Perfect for: Confident riders who are comfortable on technical trails and want to push themselves.
For foodies and relaxation: Eat Streat
f your idea of a great night is more about relaxing, head to the city centre and you’ll find Eat Street - a covered street lined with fantastic restaurants and bars. It’s got a great atmosphere every night of the week!
After that, Polynesian Spa is open late. Soaking in a thermal pool under the stars is a solid way to end an evening, especially if you've been hiking or biking all day.
Quick tip: Go a little earlier if you want a calmer dinner, or later if you’re after a livelier vibe. Either way, the whole street fills up fast on weekends.
Perfect for: friends, couples, and anyone who wants good food without the fuss.
Whatever you’re after, you’ll find it here in Rotorua long after the sun has set. I hope this helps you discover a different side of our amazing home.
Noho ora mai (stay well),
Tom
Q: What are the top things to do in Rotorua at night?
A: The most popular night activities are the Skyline Luge, the Redwoods Treewalk Nightlights, and glow worm tours. For adventurous visitors, there's night mountain biking, and for those looking to relax, there are the thermal pools and the restaurants on Eat Streat.
Q: Is the Rotorua Luge open at night?
A: Yes, the Skyline Luge has dedicated night luge hours, which are a very popular and fun experience for the whole family. It's best to check their website for the current operating hours.
Q: Can you walk in the Redwoods at night?
A: Yes, the Redwoods Treewalk has a specific nighttime experience, where the forest and walkway are illuminated with beautiful lantern installations. It's a magical walk high up in the trees.
Q: What is the best way to see glow worms at night?
A: While you can see glow worms on some free walking tracks, a guided kayak tour (like with Taiao Adventures!) offers a far more immersive experience. It takes you to secluded, pristine locations on the water, away from any crowds, for a truly magical encounter.
Q: Are there relaxing activities to do in Rotorua at night?
A: Absolutely. Soaking in a geothermal hot pool at a place like Polynesian Spa is a fantastic way to relax under the stars. You can also enjoy a great meal and drinks at one of the many restaurants on Eat Streat.
Q: Is it safe to mountain bike in the Whakarewarewa Forest at night?
A: It is only safe for experienced mountain bikers who are well-prepared. It requires proper high-powered lighting systems, knowledge of the trails, and you should never ride alone. It is not recommended for novice or intermediate riders.
