Located in the dramatic geothermal landscape of Te Whakarewarewa Valley, Te Puia in Rotorua offers a unique family adventure combining natural wonders, Māori culture, and unforgettable experiences. Families visiting Rotorua will find a day filled with geysers, bubbling mud pools, native wildlife, and rich traditions that bring this living landscape to life.
At the heart of Te Puia is Pōhutu Geyser, the most active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. Watch as it erupts frequently, sending columns of steam and water high into the sky. Families can stroll through bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and native bush guided by storytellers who share the fascinating geology and Māori history of the valley.
Kiwi Conservation Centre — See New Zealand’s National Icon
New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute — Explore Māori Creativity
Experience the extraordinary Māori Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI) where skilled practitioners create carving, weaving, and traditional arts. Families can witness the dedication and artistry of master craftspeople, gaining insight into Māori culture and heritage. This immersive experience highlights the creativity and traditions that continue to shape Aotearoa today.
Te Puia
Family-Friendly Guided Experiences in Rotorua
Te Puia offers a variety of guided experiences suitable for families. Explore geothermal wonders on a guided walk, enjoy Māori cultural performances, or take an immersive tour that connects you with the stories of this whenua (land) and its people. Each experience is designed to engage parents and children alike in Rotorua’s unique cultural landscape.
Authentic Dining at Pātaka Kai Restaurant
No family adventure in Rotorua is complete without tasting kai inspired by Māori and New Zealand flavours at Pātaka Kai Restaurant, Bar and Café. Overlooking the geothermal valley and Pōhutu Geyser, the restaurant offers daily hāngī lunch and dinner buffets, featuring hāngī-cooked meats, locally sourced seafood, seasonal salads, and desserts. Families can enjoy dining indoors or on the terrace with panoramic views.
From freshly baked breads and soups to smoked meats, kai moana (seafood), and traditional sweets like pavlova, Pātaka Kai celebrates local ingredients with a cultural twist.





