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If you’re road-tripping through the North Island and want to see something truly out of the ordinary, Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland is an absolute must. Just 30 minutes south of Rotorua, this place looks like something from a sci-fi movie (think neon green lakes, steaming craters, and bubbling mud) that blurs the line between beautiful and bizarre. 

Known as one of the most colourful geothermal areas in New Zealand, Wai O Tapu Rotorua is packed with natural wonders shaped by thousands of years of volcanic activity. Whether you’re here to snap epic pics of the Champagne Pool, catch the Lady Knox Geyser in action, or just stretch your legs on the scenic trails, it’s the kind of stop that’ll stick with you long after the steam clears. 

Tucked away between Rotorua and Taupō, Orakei Korako is one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary geothermal gems. Nicknamed The Hidden Valley, this otherworldly destination is the where people come to experience one of the country’s most active and untouched geothermal parks. 

And when we say untouched, we mean it! Unlike some of the more crowded Taupo geothermal attractions, Orakei Korako is only accessible by a short ferry ride across Lake Ohakuri, giving it that off-the-beaten-path feel. And with one of the only known geothermal caves in New Zealand, it’s easy to see why this park tops the list for travellers looking for the best geothermal parks NZ has to offer. 

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are among New Zealand’s most famous natural attractions. People visit this unique cave system to experience the soft blue glow of thousands of bioluminescent glowworms (Arachnocampa luminosa), found only in New Zealand. Inside the caves, visitors are guided through chambers filled with delicate limestone formations, underground rivers, and a glowworm-lit boat ride that resembles drifting beneath a starlit sky. 

Beyond the natural spectacle, the caves offer a chance to explore the region’s geology and cultural heritage. Guided tours include commentary on the caves’ history and formation, and many incorporate both walking and boating elements. This is one of the most accessible caving experiences in the country, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. 

For campervan travellers, a Waitomo cave tours makes for a rewarding stop along a central North Island road trip – particularly when paired with nearby attractions like the Ōtorohanga Kiwi House or the Mangapohue Natural Bridge. 

Whakarewarewa Māori Village is one of Rotorua’s most important cultural and geothermal attractions. As a living Māori village, it is home to the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people, who have lived on this site for generations. Visitors come here to experience an authentic, living expression of Māori culture – from traditional arts and performances to geothermal cooking and storytelling. 

Unlike recreated heritage sites, Whakarewarewa is a functioning village, where daily life coexists with the surrounding geothermal landscape. Guided tours introduce visitors to natural hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and geysers, while offering insight into how residents use geothermal energy to heat homes and cook kai (food) using steam boxes and thermal pools. 

The village is also one of the best places in New Zealand to see kapa haka performances, taste a traditional hāngī meal in Rotorua, and learn about Māori history from the people who live it. For those travelling the North Island by campervan, Whakarewarewa offers a culturally rich stop just minutes from Rotorua’s city centre. 

Huka Falls is one of the most-visited natural attractions in New Zealand, drawing travellers to witness the raw power of the Waikato River as it narrows dramatically from 100 metres to just 15.  

The resulting surge creates a powerful waterfall, where nearly a quarter of a million litres of water thunder over an 11-metre drop every second. Located just five minutes north of Taupō, this easily accessible site is a favourite for those interested in natural beauty, short walks, and jet boat thrills. 

Huka Falls is especially popular with campervan travellers exploring the central North Island. The site offers clearly marked walking trails, scenic viewing platforms, and easy access to adventure activities, including the well-known Huka Falls Jet Boat experience. For many, it’s a convenient and essential stop on the way through the region, often paired with nearby geothermal parks or lakeside stays in Taupō. 

Tongariro National Park is one of the oldest New Zealand’s national parks and the fourth oldest in the world. Recognised as a Dual World Heritage Site for both its cultural significance and volcanic landscape, it offers a rare combination of natural and spiritual experiences. At the heart of the park are the three towering volcanoes – Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngāuruhoe (Mount Doom), and Mount Ruapehu – each with deep ancestral significance to Māori. 

Travellers are drawn to this dramatic central North Island landscape for its world-class hiking, alpine scenery, and geothermal features. The most iconic walk is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, often considered one of the best hikes in New Zealand – and in fact, the world. Other visitors come to explore shorter walks, enjoy snow sports in winter, or visit cultural points of interest in places like Whakapapa Village. 

For those travelling by campervan, Tongariro National Park is a rewarding detour off the main highway, offering access to nature without needing to stray too far from the road. 

The Wānaka Lavender Farm is one of the most relaxing and visually stunning Wānaka attractions. Visitors come to walk through the vibrant fields of lavender in full bloom, breathe in the calming scent, and explore beautiful gardens that change with the seasons. Families especially love the friendly farm animals, including alpacas, sheep, and rabbits. 

The Wānaka Lavender Farm also offers unique experiences like sampling lavender ice cream, local honey, and herbal teas, and browsing the gift shop. It’s a must-see stop for anyone looking for fun things to do in Wānaka, and it’s open all year round (except Christmas Day).