Rotorua is like stepping into another world – steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and the scent of sulphur wafting through the air. (Let’s be honest: it smells a little like eggs, but you get used to it!) What makes Rotorua extra special is the blend of wild adventure, natural beauty, and rich Māori culture – all of which can be experienced with surprisingly great gluten-free food options!
I visited Rotorua as part of a larger road trip, so if you want to see the ultimate NZ road trip route check out more of my blogs on NZ here.
🌿 Highlight: Te Pā Tū Māori Experience
THIS WAS THE HIGHLIGHT! Honestly, one of the absolute standouts in Rotorua – even the whole trip – was the Te Pā Tū Māori experience. You don’t just watch a performance; you’re welcomed into a living village, learn about Māori customs and stories, take part in poi dance and haka demonstrations, and finish with a feast that celebrates indigenous ingredients and cooking methods.
And the best part? They can cater for gluten-free diets – coeliac-safe included – and the food is seriously good. It’s more than a meal; it’s a meaningful cultural exchange and a memory that’ll stick with you. As most of the food is naturally gluten free, you get to fully partake in the experience, too!
🧖♀️ What Else to Do in Rotorua: Soak, Swing & Steam
Rotorua is a playground for anyone who loves a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation. We chose to do just that with a private hot tub, but here’s that and some other activities I think you’ll love too!:
- Secret Spot Hot Tubs – After a hike or bike ride through the stunning Redwoods Forest, book a private hot tub session at this hidden gem. You’ll be soaking in steaming water surrounded by nature – with drink service & gluten free cafe options, too.
- ZORB Rotorua – Did you know that this is the birthplace of zorbing! Climb into a giant inflatable ball and roll your way down a hill – silly, wet, and (probably) ridiculously fun.
- Luge Rides & Giant Sky Swing – Just like in Queenstown, Rotorua has its own luge track and a sky swing that’ll get your heart pumping.
- Glow Worm Kayak or SUP Tour – Head out at dusk and paddle your way through caves lit up with glow worms. It’s magical, peaceful, and one of the more unique things you can do here.
🍴 Where to Eat – (Gluten free & Coeliac-safe cafes)
We weren’t here for too long and so didn’t do too much taste testing! However, there were a good couple of cafes we passed with great gluten free, and keto options!?… is that a thing in Rotorua?
This cafe has a separate gluten free counter and menu, super knowledgeable about gluten free and cross contamination and is close to the meeting point for the Te Pa Tu experience!
Scope Café Scope is a cozy little brunch spot in town offering gluten-free options. It’s a great place to fuel up before a big day out. Their menu is clearly labeled, and the staff are helpful – especially if you let them know you’re coeliac. I had a keto breakfast here, the day after a FEAST at the Te Pā Tū experience… more on that below!
Final Thoughts
There is an abundance of things to do in Rotorua – this town is packed with experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world. From rolling down hills in a ZORB to paddling under glow worms, and relaxing in natural hot pools after learning about Māori traditions, it’s a place of contrasts in the best way. The only hard thing is choosing what to do! And with a strong showing of gluten-free eats, it’s easy to explore Rotorua without stress – just snacks.
