Te Waihou Walkway (Blue Springs)
Begin with a gentle walk along the Te Waihou River to see water so intensely blue and pure it looks photoshopped. It supplies about 60 percent of New Zealand’s bottled water, but seeing it flow past vibrant green river weed is the real reward.
Cambridge Town Centre
Affectionately known as the 'Town of Trees,' Cambridge has a leafy, distinctively English charm without the stuffiness. Spend an hour browsing the exceptional antique shops, independent bookshops, and homeware boutiques along Victoria Street.
Alpino
Housed in Cambridge's beautifully restored solid-brick post office, Alpino serves modern Italian fare that easily rivals Auckland’s best. Order the hand-stretched woodfired pizzas or a plate of fresh pasta, paired with a crisp glass of Central Otago Pinot Gris.
Okere Falls Store
On the drive back to Rotorua, make a final stop at this eco-conscious local institution tucked into the forest. Grab a flat white or a pint of local craft beer to enjoy in their beer garden, then take the short path down to watch rafters tackle the world's highest commercially rafted waterfall.
