Rotorua Museum

Rotorua doesn't figure on everyone's itinerary – particularly first-timers – but if you are based here for a few days, spend some time in the Rotorua Museum located near the re-developed waterfront. The Rotorua area is rich in Maori culture and history, and the museum's multimedia exhibitions are informative and well-presented.

There's a large collection of Maori treasure, including massive carvings, as well as a great art collection of fine art, largely by New Zealand artists. Don't miss the many representations of the Pink and White Terraces, an incredible terraced geothermal field with hot pools that was destroyed during a volcanic eruption in 1886. After a visit, take a stroll in the elaborately planted Government Gardens that surround the museum.