Stay at the only hotel which overlooks the main geothermal area in the city. (the Quality Geyserland Hotel)  It is a great view and ask for rooms which face over the area. At night you can hear the mud bubbling and hear as well the hissing of the main geyser!

Rotorua is the main tourist destination in the North Island. There are several things which attract people here; hunting,shooting and fishing, thermal activities (on one golf course you get a free drop if you hit your ball into a fumerole!), and Maori culture. Visit one of the  villages , and have a hangi ( maori meal ) at another. Also attend a Maori concert.