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Getting Around Rotorua

Getting Around Rotorua

Bay Of Plenty New Zealand Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Baybus is Rotorua's public bus network, managed by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council. It provides services that cover the downtown, various suburbs, and some major points of of interest. It possesses a cost-effective way to get around if you plan to visit multiple points within the city's reach.

The main bus hub is the Rotorua City Centre Bus Stop on Pukuatua Street. Most routes start or pass through this central location, making it a good point to commence your bus journeys. Route maps are available on the Baybus website and at many bus stops, and at the Rotorua i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.

Ticketing & Accessibility

  • Cash Fares: Pay driver with exact cash (NZD coins or small notes).
  • Bee Card: Purchase for cheaper fares at i-SITE, libraries, dairies. Tap on/off.
  • Accessibility: All Baybus buses are wheelchair accessible with lower-level floors and ramps.
  • Hours: Generally early morning to late evening, reduced weekends/holidays.

Route Frequency

Main routes operate every 30-60 minutes on weekdays. Less frequent on weekends.

Real-time Tracking

Use Baybus web page or Transit app for real-time bus tracking and journey planning.

Confirm Stops

Confirm your stop with the bus driver if unsure about your destination.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services
  • Licensed taxis have roof signs and company branding.
  • Hail on street, find at stands, or book via telephone.
  • Accept cash and credit cards; fares are based on a meter.
Ride-Sharing Apps
  • Uber operates in Rotorua, often with competitive prices.
  • Download Uber or Zoomy apps prior to arrival.
  • Verify driver and vehicle details match the app before entering.

Typical Fares

Short City Ride

NZ$10-NZ$20

Airport Transfer

NZ$25-NZ$40

Taxi Metered

Fare based on distance and time

Carry Cash

Useful for smaller transactions

Rental Options

A minimum age of 21 is typically required to rent a car, with a few companies setting the age at 25. You need a valid driver's licence (and an IDP if if you have a non-english License) and a credit card for the security bond.

Car Rental

  • Major international companies (Avis, Hertz) and local ones (Jucy, Apex) operate.
  • Arrange your rental vehicle in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Consider purchasing full coverage or confirming personal travel insurance.
  • Pick up desks are at Rotorua Airport and in the downtown.

Bicycle Rentals

  • No city-wide bicycle sharing program.
  • Local bike shops and tour operators offer rentals.
  • Mountain Bike Rotorua is popular for rentals at Whakarewarewa Forest.
  • Helmets are legally mandatory and provided with bike rentals.

Driving & Parking

  • Roads in and around Rotorua are generally good.
  • Metered parking is common in central Rotorua.
  • Use parking apps like PayMyPark for payment.
  • Many hotels and motels offer no-cost parking for guests.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals are limited for general transport.
  • Specialty vehicle options like Quad Bikes are for off-road tours.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly

Downtown, Government Gardens, lakefront, and Kuirau Park are perfect for walking.

Walking Tours

Guided tours on Māori heritage and past, or self-guided maps from i-SITE.

Bicycle Safety

Rotorua has world-class mountain biking in Redwoods Forest. Dedicated cycle routes are growing.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Rotorua offers some unique transport experiences, mainly for tourism.

Tour & Water Transport

  • Local tour agencies offer bus tours to the main sights (Wai-O-Tapu, Te Puia).
  • No dedicated hop-on-hop-off bus service within Rotorua city.
  • Boat cruises and scenic tours on Lake Rotorua and Lake Tarawera.
  • These are for tourism and seeing the sights, not point-to-point travel.

Unique Local Transport

  • Skyline Gondola: connects base to Mount Ngongotahā summit.
  • It gives access to luge tracks, restaurants, and mountain biking trails.
  • Accessibility Services: Many attractions and hotels strive for accessibility.
  • Contact specific attractions to confirm their facilities for mobility needs.

Getting Around Safely

Pedestrian Paths

Follow marked trails and paths in geothermal areas for safety.

Prioritize designated routes

Cycling Safety

Always wear a helmet when cycling in New Zealand (legal requirement).

Head protection is mandatory

Urban Areas

Exercise caution on busy roads. Don't walk alone in dimly lit areas at night.

Be aware in unfamiliar urban settings

Driving Smarter

Navigation Tools
  • Download offline maps for consistent navigation.
  • Mobile coverage can be patchy in remote parts.
  • Using a local SIM card with navigation apps.
Rental Reminders
  • Always carry your physical home country license.
  • International Driving Permit is needed if your license is not in English.
  • Be aware of strict drink-driving laws.

Safety on the Go

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Do not leave bags unattended in public spaces.
  • Lock vehicles and keep valuables out of sight.
  • For spontaneous rides, the Uber app with a local SIM card helps.
  • Be cautious of rapid weather changes when planning outdoor activities.
  • Follow all safety warnings in geothermal areas.
  • Respect cultural sites and any modesty requirements.
  • Always declare items to biosecurity on entering.

Accessibility Focus

Many attractions and hotels in Rotorua have made efforts to offer accessibility features for travellers with mobility needs.

Public Transport Access

  • All Baybus buses are wheelchair accessible.
  • They showcase low floors and ramps for easy boarding.
  • Priority seating is available near the front of the bus.
  • Contact Baybus directly for specific accessibility inquiries.

Attraction Accessibility

  • Numerous contemporary attractions feature accessibility features.
  • Accommodations also strive to give accessible rooms and facilities.
  • Advise contacting specific sights in advance.
  • This helps confirm suitability for your specific needs.

Transportation Options Summary

Walking & Cycling

City center is walkable. Redwoods offers world-class cycling trails.

  • Pedestrian-pleasant zones abound.
  • Guided and self-guided tours possible.
  • Helmets are mandatory for cyclists.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing

On-demand transport for convenience, especially short distances.

  • Licensed taxis operate on meters.
  • Uber and Zoomy are available apps.
  • Verify driver information before entering.
Rental & Specialized

Car rentals for flexibility. Tour buses simplify sight-seeing.

  • Car rentals require valid license and credit card.
  • Tour buses provide transport to main attractions.
  • Skyline Gondola offers unique mountain access.

Important Travel Notes

Safety Reminders
  • Always exercise caution on busy roads.
  • Be mindful of traffic when cycling on public roads.
  • Follow marked trails in geothermal areas.
Driving Laws
  • Remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road.
  • Factor in fuel costs for self-driving trips.
  • Observe speed limits and road signs carefully.

Seamless Journeys

Navigating Rotorua is simple with diverse transport options.

Choose the best technique for your exploration, whether it's public transit, a rental car, or a purpose-built tour.

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