Rotorua is an otherworldly place.
Nestled in the heart of North Island is a gorgeous city, with charm in spades – the only set back is the stench of rotten eggs which leaks into every corner of this beautiful region.
Due to its rich geothermal activity there are massive geysers, bubbling hot mud pools, acidic lakes and landscapes which look as if you could be on another planet.
All this beauty comes at a price however – the sheer amount of activity means that the sulphur drifts through the wind, making the whole city smell like eggs.
To experience these incredible sights for yourself, a visit to Hell’s Gate is absolutely unmissable.
Dramatic geysers of Te Puia, Rotorua Geothermal Park, New Zealand (Image: Getty)
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Acid lakes, geysers and mud pools await (Image: Getty)
This geothermal resort is also a spa and resort where you can bathe in mud pools. Prices vary depending on what you want to see, but they start at $35NZD (£16).
You can choose from a guided walk around the geothermal pools, including the largest mud volcano in New Zealand, reaching more than 3 metres high.
Rotorua was also one of the first places the indigenous Māori settled in Aotearoa (the te reo Māori name for New Zealand).
Known as Te Arawa, after the waka (canoe) they arrived on, this group now encompasses several iwi (tribes) in New Zealand – Ngāti Pikiao, Tūhourangi and Ngāti Whakaue.
The geothermal energy in the region allowed them to cook, clean and heat their homes and Lake Rotorua provided fresh drinking water.
Hell’s Gate also offers insight into the Māori life. You can try your own hand at traditional Māori carving or try a delicious traditionally cooked hangi – a meal cooked in the ground, using the geothermal heat.
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People visiting the Māori thermal village of Whakarewarewa (Image: Getty)
Another incredible thing to see in Rotorua is Te Puia – a traditional Māori village that is not only a major tourist attraction but also plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Māori culture.
Te Puia is a training ground for Māori youth in the traditional arts of carving, weaving, and performing arts.
If you want to visit this beautiful city, then don’t worry about the sulphuric scent.
I have been to Rotorua multiple times, I have loved it every single time – and after a couple of hours wandering through the city I promise you, you don’t notice the smell – there’s too much else to enjoy.