Located just 6km northeast of Rotorua City Centre, Rotorua International Airport is the gateway to this enchanting city rich in culture and natural attractions. The airport offers all basic amenities such as eateries, WiFi, currency exchange, and car rental services. Regarding the latter, several international and local providers have offices directly at the airport.
Car Hire at the Aiport
Fancy hitting the open road immediately? You can! Just remember, left is right! In New Zealand, they drive on the left side, opposite to the UK. Don't worry, though, it doesn't take long to get the hang of it.
Choosing the Right Car
From economy and compact cars to SUVs and minivans, your choice will depend largely on your itinerary and the size of your travel party. An SUV is ideal if you're heading into the rugged terrain, while a compact car will suit city commuting.
Gas Stations near the Airport
With your perfect car, you might need a fill-up soon. There are several petrol stations within a 10-minute drive from the airport. For instance, Z Rotorua and Mobil on Te Ngae Road are open 24/7.
Driving Routes and Accessibility
From Rotorua airport, a host of tourist-friendly cities, and captivating attractions are accessible. Highway 30A, conveniently located just outside the airport, connects you directly with Rotorua City Centre. It also links to Highway 5, leading to the popular tourist hubs of Taupo and Napier.
Climate and Weather
New Zealand has a largely temperate climate. In Rotorua, temperatures in summer (December-February) range from 21 to 29 degrees Celsius, while in winter (June-August) it can get as low as 9 degrees. We recommend checking the current weather forecast just before your trip, as conditions can change unexpectedly.
Currency Information
New Zealand’s currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), with coins from 10 cents to 2 dollars and banknotes from 5 to 100 dollars. Major credit and debit cards are accepted virtually everywhere. However, we recommend having some cash as smaller shops, markets or rural places may not have card facilities.
Surrounding Cities and Attractions
Start exploring right from Rotorua by visiting geothermal attractions like the Pohutu Geyser, the chilling Waimangu Volcanic Valley, or soak in a natural hot river in the Kerosene Creek. Farther afield, a two-hour drive will take you to the mesmerising Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and explore to your heart's content. Safe travels!
