Accessible only on a guided tour, this small island at the centre of Lake Rotorua is rich in native birdlife and Māori history and culture. Rising some 180 metres (590 feet) out of the centre of Rotorua, the tiny Mokoia Island is the site of New Zealand’s most cherished love story and home to some of the country’s rarest birds. Visit the island to discover its rich Māori heritage, to explore the endangered wildlife sanctuary and to bathe in its geothermic waters. Mokoia Island is operated by the Te Arawa indigenous people and can only be accessed as part of a tour. Board the Mokoia Island boat in Rotorua township to speed across the lake’s glassy water in the direction of the island. Listen to tour operators as they tell the legendary story of Hinemoa and Tutanekai. Their families separated these two young lovers before Hinemoa swam across the lake so the couple could be together. Listen to the famous Māori song that tells their story. As you arrive you’ll receive a warm Māori welcome before being led onto the island. Bathe in the naturally heated pools located along the island’s shores for a truly relaxing experience. Sit back and gaze across the lake in the evening as the sunset provides glorious colours reflecting in the water. Bring your binoculars for some of the best bird watching in the area. The endangered wildlife sanctuary at the centre of the 1.4-square-kilometre (0.5-square-mile) island is home to rare species, including the North Island robin and the papango. Afterwards, take a guided bushwalk across the island to learn about the local flora and fauna. Back on the boat, enjoy circumnavigating the island to see its rocky shores and to capture photos of the island against the lake behind it. Mokoia Island is located in the centre of Rotorua and can be reached via boat. Sign up for the Mokoia Island Wai Ora Experience in Rotorua. A fee applies for the experience. Visit the island year-round.
Reviewed on 25 Mar. 2024
Reviewed on 26 Mar. 2024
Reviewed on 23 Mar. 2024
You can take time to visit Skyline Rotorua during your travels to Rotorua. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this family-friendly area.
Learn about the local history of Rotorua with a stop at Polynesian Spa. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.
Explore the great outdoors at Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest, a lovely green space in Rotorua. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.
^Savings based on all package bookings made with Flight + Hotel on lastminute.com.au from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2019, as compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings will vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and selected travel supplier(s). Savings not available on all packages.