As the Gateway to the Bay of Plenty Region, Rotorua International Airport (ROT) brings you close to some of New Zealand's most stunning landscapes and Maori culture. Located just 6 kilometres northeast of downtown, the airport accounts for around 150,000 passengers annually.
Car Rental Stations at the Airport
- Avis: Open daily from 8 am to 8:30 pm.
- Budget: Open daily from 8 am to 9:30 pm.
- Hertz: Open daily from 8 am to 9 pm.
Car Class Recommendations
For couples or solo travellers, a compact or economy car is ideal. For families or groups, a minivan or SUV might be more suitable. If you plan to explore off-road trails, consider a 4WD.
Fuel Stations Near the Airport
- Z Energy Rotorua: Located just 6.8 km from the airport.
- BP Rotorua: Located approximately 7.3 km from the airport.
Getting Around
Once you've rented a car, Rotorua itself is easy to navigate with well-signposted roads. Just remember to keep left!
Local Climate
The region enjoys a mild, temperate climate. The summer temperatures average from 21 to 29 degrees Celsius, while winter temperatures rarely fall below 9 degrees Celsius.
Local Currency
The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.
Surrounding Cities
Notable nearby cities include Tauranga (84km away), and Auckland (235km away). Both are just a drive away and can be worth incorporating into your itinerary.
Insider Tips
Stroll around Rotorua's lakefront area, experience Maori culture at Tamaki Maori Village, or venture to the geothermal reserve, Wai-O-Tapu. For adrenaline junkies, try 'Zorbing', a unique activity where you roll down a hill inside a giant plastic ball!
Remember
Driving is on the left side in New Zealand and all distances are listed in kilometers. Now, strap yourself in, hit the road, and get ready to explore Rotorua!
