New Zealand🇳🇿 | attractionsWai-O-Tapu Thermal WonderlandChampagne Pool, 10:15 a.m. geyser, Devil’s Bath lime water, silica terraces | things to do and best time to go

Rotorua city, about 30 minutes north by road, is the best base for backpackers because it holds nearly all the budget beds near the park.The lakefront and central streets around Tutanekai Street and Eat Streat put you within walking distance of dorm-style hostels, cheap bakeries, bars and the Redwoods-bound bike routes. Solo travelers meet people easily here, since hostel common rooms run group dinners, geothermal soaks and shared trips out to the park. Rotorua is also where shuttles and tour pickups depart, so you can arrange a ride without a car.Taupo, roughly 50 minutes south, is a calmer alternative … read more 👉

Rotorua city, about 30 minutes north by road, is the best base for backpackers because it holds nearly all the budget beds near the park.The lakefront and central streets around Tutanekai Street and Eat Streat put you within walking distance of dorm-style hostels, cheap bakeries, bars and the Redwoods-bound bike routes. Solo travelers meet people easily here, since hostel common rooms run group dinners, geothermal soaks and shared trips out to the park. Rotorua is also where shuttles and tour pickups depart, so you can arrange a ride without a car.Taupo, roughly 50 minutes south, is a calmer alternative with a lake-view hostel scene, outdoor activities such as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and easy highway access to the park. It suits you if you are driving between Auckland and Wellington.The Waiotapu area itself has only a handful of holiday parks and campgrounds, which are quiet, safe and good with a campervan, but social life is limited. Rotorua lakeside neighborhoods feel safe and well lit at night, though you should lock valuables in your vehicle in car parks. Book ahead in summer.