Going on the free Rotorua historical walking tour

Free historical walking tour Rotorua

Unknown by most tourists, there is actually of free historical  walking tour   organised by the local government and the museum in Rotorua, everyday at 11am and 2pm!

To join the tour, no need to register. Simply be in front of the Rotorua Museum Government Garden building, actually under renovation, on time for the tour, and follow the guide!

Rotorua Government Garden Museum

The tour starts of course with some explanations about the Rotorua Government Garden museum building, which clearly seems to be of Germanic inspiration.

The museum is actually closed for renovation, due to some issues discovered after the latest earthquake, called Kaikoura earthquake, and some cracks has been discovered in the building structure.

In any case, the building have first been constructed after another earthquake in the 19th century, which smashed what used to be New Zealand's main tourist attraction, a former natural wonder.

Therefore, in order to keep attracting European tourist, it has been decided to build a European like building that would hosts thermal baths, therefore leading to the creation of the thermal recreation area in Rotorua.

Rotorua Government thermal pools

We continue the tour by going around the huge public park that is in front of the museum. We stop not far to admire a beautiful sculpture which represents the Maori heritage.

And next to the park, we can see a mud pool, as there are many of them in the area.

However, this mud pool is special, as it is the main mud pool of the adjacent blue baths spa.

Right in front of us, a pool is secured with a small wall all around it.

An inscription on the side reminds us to stay away, as it reaches the temperature of 212°C!

Around the museum's park area, there are several thermal pools like that one, that are actually not opened to the public, but were formerly used as relaxation areas.

A bit further, a much larger sulfur pool is surrounded by sculptures, as the city hosts a sculpture competition around that pond every year. The winners are kept, and the other ones can be bought for about NZ$10000.

Rotorua museum gardens

We then continue the tour by going in the beautiful parks that are perfectly kept.

A tropical garden gives some shades from its trees, which are higher than most bushes in the park.

We slowly walk back towards the museum building, and pass next to more beautiful flowers, bushes... and some croquet fields, in use by some people that are taking advantage of the beautiful day to relax in the large government gardens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What historical insights and landmarks does the free Rotorua walking tour cover, and how does it enhance visitors' understanding of the city?

The tour covers Rotorua’s historical buildings, Maori culture, and geothermal history. It enhances understanding by providing context and stories behind the city’s development and cultural heritage.