When planning a North Island getaway, why choose between lake and ocean, bush and beach, or hot pools and saltwater — when you can have it all?
Just an hour apart, Rotorua and Papamoa offer two distinct but perfectly complementary travel experiences that you can enjoy easily on one trip. One is rich in geothermal energy, Māori culture, and forested adventure. The other is all sea breeze, sand dunes, and laid-back coastal charm.
Together, they’re the ultimate holiday pairing — and with Tasman Holiday Parks offering premium stays in both spots, it’s never been easier to do the best of both worlds in one easy trip.
🌋 Rotorua: Geothermal Magic and Cultural Richness
Start your journey inland in Rotorua, a place where the earth literally breathes. Geysers, mud pools, and natural hot springs define the landscape — while rich Māori heritage, thrilling activities, and lush forest tracks round out the experience.
Whether you're mountain biking through the redwoods, paddling across Lake Rotorua at sunset, or soaking in a mineral pool under the stars, this town is full of energy, history, and nature.
🏕️ Stay: Tasman Holiday Parks – Rotorua
Tucked away in a peaceful, park-like setting just minutes from the action, Tasman Holiday Parks – Rotorua offers the perfect balance of convenience and calm. Enjoy clean, modern facilities, your own on-site thermal hot pools, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels a world away — even though you're right in the heart of it all.
Accommodation ranges from powered and unpowered sites and cabins to comfortable family units — making it a great base for couples, families, or road-trippers looking to soak up Rotorua’s iconic experiences.
✅ Do: Top 5 Things to Do in Rotorua
- Te Puia – Explore geothermal wonders and traditional Māori arts at this must-visit cultural centre.
- Redwoods Treewalk – Walk or bike among towering Californian redwoods on stunning trails.
- Polynesian Spa – Soak in mineral-rich pools overlooking Lake Rotorua for the ultimate unwind.
- Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland – One of Rotorua's most essential attractions, it's an incredibly colourful grouping of hot springs, geysers, amd pools
- Hell's Gate Geothermal Park - Come and Explore New Zealand’s only geothermal mud spa complex!
🌊 Papamoa: Coastal Calm and Ocean Air
Once you’ve explored Rotorua’s steaming wonders, it’s time to head east. Just an hour away, you’ll swap hot pools for ocean waves and the geothermal scent for fresh sea air.
Papamoa, located in the beautiful Bay of Plenty, is one of New Zealand’s most relaxed beach towns. With long stretches of sandy beach, easygoing cafés, local markets, and scenic walking tracks, it’s the kind of place where time slows down — on purpose.
🏖️ Stay: Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach
Beachfront doesn’t get much closer than this. Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach sits right on the sand, offering sweeping ocean views, direct beach access, and a variety of stay options from powered and unpowered sites to beachside cabins - think beachfront resort paradise!
Whether you’re watching the sunrise with a coffee, setting up a family picnic by the dunes, or just letting the kids roam free, it’s the kind of place that reminds you what holidays are really about.
✅ Do: Top 5 Things to Do in Papamoa & Surrounds
- Papamoa Beach – Swim, surf, or unwind along this peaceful stretch of golden sand. It’s ideal for morning strolls, sunset watching, or a full day by the sea.
- Mount Maunganui (Mauao) – A must-do coastal walk. Hike to the summit for panoramic views, cruise the base track, or relax in the saltwater hot pools afterward.
- Papamoa Hills Regional Park – This local gem offers scenic trails with sweeping views across farmland, forest, and the coastline. Best enjoyed early morning or late afternoon.
- Kaiate Falls – A short bush walk leads to these spectacular multi-tiered waterfalls tucked away in native forest. A tranquil spot for nature lovers and photographers.
- Take a Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise – Head out from nearby Tauranga and spot dolphins, seals, and seabirds in the wild. A stunning way to see the Bay of Plenty from the water.
🚗 Why Rotorua and Papamoa Work So Well Together
- Two different vibes: Rotorua brings action, culture, and energy. Papamoa offers space, stillness, and sea air.
- Only an hour apart: A short, easy drive connects the two — ideal for weekend escapes or longer roadies.
- Tasman comfort at both ends: Stay with a trusted name, enjoy consistent quality, and relax knowing you’re in good hands — whether you’re inland or on the coast.
🌤️ All-Season Appeal
This duo works all year round:
- Summer: Beach days in Papamoa, forest adventures in Rotorua.
- Autumn: Crisp mornings, golden light, and quieter attractions.
- Winter: Hot soaks in Rotorua’s thermal pools, sunrise walks along Papamoa Beach.
- Spring: Blooming bush tracks, fewer crowds, and plenty of sunshine.
Make It a Two-Stop Trip
If you’re planning a North Island holiday, don’t just choose one — experience both steam and sea. Rotorua and Papamoa complement each other in every way. Soak, swim, explore, and unwind.
Rotorua and Papamoa — two destinations, one unforgettable holiday.
Start planning now:
🌋 Tasman Holiday Parks – Rotorua
🌊 Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach
