Host the perfect stag or hen’s do in Rotorua!

Wedding bells are ringing, and exciting times lie ahead – but before the big day, there’s the all-important stag or hen’s do! Whether you’re about to tie the knot, or if you’ve been bestowed with the task of planning an epic event, Rotorua is the destination you’ve been looking for! Swap the standard party or drinks for a weekend away in the North Island’s adventure capital, for a getaway that the lucky couple will never forget.

Stay the weekend in style

Finding somewhere special to stay is the starting point for any successful weekend trip – and Rotorua has options for all budgets and group sizes. Whether staying in the centre of town or seeking out a luxury lodge amongst nature, you’re sure to find accommodation that will have plenty of room for the entire groom’s/bridal party, that’ll keep you celebrating long into the evening.

Rydges Rotorua caters specifically for stag and hen’s do’s with a hassle-free package complete with gourmet catering options and bubbles included, in the centre of the city. Searching for something a bit deluxe? Black Swan Hotel offers luxurious suites with all the fine touches that make for a truly memorable stay. Lap up the sophisticated serenity from a poolside or lakeside room, and relax the night away.

For the outdoorsy type, the Lakes Lodge Wilderness Retreat is a great off-the-grid escape, where you can add-on activities like a Lake Okataina boat cruise, trout fishing and claybird shooting. Or enjoy the serenity of the Treetops Lodge, set in a stunning location amongst flowing streams and lakes.

• 
• 

Get the party off to a flying start

Take the crew along to Velocity Valley for an adrenaline-filled start to the shenanigans! Lock arms with your groomsmen or bridesmaids and rip the cord on a giant Swoop swing, feel the rush of the high-flying Freefall Xtreme, or laugh and race your way around the Shweeb monorail track.

As the icing on the cake, the bride- or groom-to-be can take the ultimate leap of faith on the 43-metre-high Rotorua Bungy – completely free if 10 or more people take part in the 2-ride combo.

• 
• 

Upsize your thrills

For an additional blast of adrenaline, kick things up a gear with Kaitiaki Adventures! Wing your way to the Kaituna River for an epic rapids-filled whitewater rafting trip – featuring the-7-metre-tall Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world! Make a splash and experience the sensation of sledging down the river, as you ‘surf’ the rapids on your purpose-built board.

Or if you prefer to stay dry, join a guided hike of Mount Tarawera for an incredible immersion into its fascinating natural and cultural history. For something truly special, add-on a scenic helicopter flight with Volcanic Air to take in the vast beauty of the unique landscape.

Unwind, sooth and soak

Wedding season can be a stressful time, so work out those knots, unwind and enjoy some R&R at Polynesian Spa. Spoil the groom’s or bridal party with a rejuvenating spa experience everyone will love. Choose from a range of massage options, beauty therapies and geothermal hot pools to refresh the body and mind before the big day.

• 
• 

  Polynesian Spa

Tee off

Keep the par-tee going with a round of 18-hole golf at one of the region’s many spectacular courses. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the Arikikapakapa Golf Club or Lakeview Golf and Country Club – their picturesque greens are surrounded by geothermal activity and volcanic views. For a more low-key putting experience, test your hole-in-one skills out at Mini Golf Rotorua, abundant with playful bunny rabbits.

Wine and dine

Looking for somewhere to enjoy dinner and drinks with your groom’s or bridal party? Look no further than Eat Streat, a bustling array of restaurants and bars in Rotorua’s city centre. With a diverse range of cuisines down one street, you’ll find something to suit every appetite. Finish the evening with drinks and a boogie and you’ve got yourself a perfect night out.

So if you’re soon to walk down the aisle (or if you’re the best man/maid of honour making the magic happen), choose Rotorua as your stag or hen’s do destination. There are plenty of unique and memorable experiences on offer to create your very own epic weekend – as you celebrate the end of an era and the start of an exciting new chapter in life.