The insiders’ guide to Rotorua

Neat Places

14 Dec, 2024 06:00 PM5 mins to read

Whether you’re craving cronuts, craft beer or boutique treasures, Rotorua locals know the best places to find them. Photo / Neat Places

Skip the usual recommendations and tap into the true essence of Rotorua by exploring it like a local. The residents know all the hidden gems and unique spots that often go unnoticed by visitors.

Below are a reliable bunch of insights from those who know Rotorua best, compiling a list of local favourites for dining, shopping, and socialising. Whether you’re after the top fish and chips, charming shops, or popular places to grab your morning coffee, these are the must-visit places locals love.

No matter how long you’re staying, dive into the local scene – you’ll be greeted with open arms and a warm welcome.

River’s Catch

In New Zealand, every small town has a favourite fish and chip shop. For Rotorua locals, River’s Catch ticks the boxes of every classic fish and chip shop, but it’s just that little bit better. Founded by Filipino immigrants Izzy and Norman, this upmarket fish and chip shop stands out for its sustainable, seasonal ingredients and thoughtful menu. Not to mention the exceptional quality and taste of the food. Signature dishes like the “Tackle Box” feature fish and chips paired with Asian slaw, miso dressing, and homemade sauce, while items like Adobo fish tacos and smash burgers cater to a wider audience. Their goal is to serve comfort food with care, offering an elevated dining experience that celebrates both local and Filipino flavours.

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River’s Catch serves Filipino-inspired fish and chips, adding a unique twist to a Kiwi classic. Photo / Neat Places

Rotorua’s best-baked goods

City workers have two main pit stops depending on where their day takes them. Ciabatta Cafe and Bakery, a bustling bakery in an industrial area, draws in the crowd with its irresistible cronuts, tarts, croissants, and Swiss-style ciabatta sandwiches. With cosy seating tucked into various nooks, it’s always a hit. On the other side, near the hospital, Patrick’s Boutique Bakery offers its own selection of delicately handcrafted treats that keep the local crowd coming back for more.

For a sweet treat, head to Patrick’s Boutique Bakery. Photo / Neat Places

For a taste of Asia

Locals love Spa City Noodle Bar for its authentic Sichuan-inspired dishes and cosy, modern vibe. The noodle bar brings bold Asian flavours to Rotorua with homemade noodles, dumplings, and other Asian-infused dishes. Spa City Noodle Bar goes beyond the usual, aiming to elevate the local food scene with every dish. Another well-loved spot is Yamato, delivering no-frills, authentic Japanese food in a welcoming atmosphere. With dishes like hot sticky rice, udon noodles, and miso broth, Yamato delivers classic flavours that keep people coming back. The open-plan kitchen and U-shaped bar allow diners to watch chefs expertly prepare fresh sashimi and sushi, offering a true taste of Japan right in Rotorua.

Craving Asian? Yamato is the place to be. Photo / Neat Places

Stay caffeinated

Rotorua’s most well-known coffee roastery is Boasters, and there’s a reason for that. Owned by Bob and Rachael Bell, this family-run coffee roastery, cafe, and retail space offers a laid-back atmosphere with cosy seating, vibrant murals, and eco-friendly touches like compostable packaging and free coffee grinds for your garden. Just steps from the city centre is Zippy, a cafe evoking a nostalgic feel that keeps people coming back. Serving a menu packed with comfort food like nachos, mac ‘n’ cheese, burgers, and sweet treats, Zippy is a laid-back spot where the familiar feels just right. For those on the move, Eighty Six is a popular coffee container on Rotorua’s lakefront dishing out freshly made coffee and baked goodies. It’s the perfect spot to wrap up some exercise or soak up the beautiful views across the water.

Boasters Coffee offers eco-friendly options, including compostable packaging and free coffee grounds for gardening. Photo / Neat Places

Hit the shops

Locals love Juniper Art & Home for its unique blend of creativity and community, offering a cosy space where handcrafted candles, jewellery, art, and homegrown plants come together. Set in a 90-year-old building overlooking Lake Rotorua, the shop embodies resilience and beauty, much like its namesake, the hardy juniper tree. The shop’s connection to the local landscape and community spirit makes it a favourite among Rotorua residents.

Also locally owned, McLeods Booksellers offers an extensive selection of books ranging from fiction to sports, music, arts, and a particularly wide selection of Māori literature, all backed by exceptional customer service from passionate staff. Locals also adore ahu Boutique for its unique blend of contemporary fashion and deep-rooted Māori heritage, embodied in the designs of owner Adrienne Whitewood, who has been sewing since she was 8. The boutique reflects the town’s cultural identity, showcasing stunning pieces inspired by historic Māori art practices.

Okere Falls Store

For holidaymakers, commuters and those who just want a break from city life, there’s a little oasis on State Highway 33; whether it’s craft beer, espresso, pies or those essential grocery items you’re after, Ōkere Falls Store has you covered. Housed in an old petrol station, Ōkere Falls is a delicious combination of old meets new, where those who like a bit of nostalgia with their lunch will not be disappointed. There’s a huge emphasis on sustainability and a variety of different menu options catering to dietary requirements. There are also key grocery items in store, so you can pop in for your milk, butter, cheese, meat, canned goods and cleaning products. The garden bar out the back is a tucked away place to enjoy a cold one, and with plenty of big picnic tables to sit at and grounds to explore, Okere Falls Store is a neat option for those with small humans too. Don’t miss the compostable loo out back for a toilet experience that ticks all the sustainability boxes.