A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Torquay vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Torquay or Rotorua?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Torquay or Rotorua, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Torquay

Torquay is a laid back, hip, and thriving surf town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a world-renowned, diverse, and cultural town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Torquay and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Torquay or Rotorua?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Torquay. Although Torquay and Rotorua are both popular with visitors, Torquay has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Torquay is more popular for its beaches and small town charm, while Rotorua is known for its museums, food, and impressive beauty. Rotorua is more touristy than Torquay and is known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. Torquay is popular for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. It is also home to Bells Beach.

How is Torquay different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rotorua and Torquay. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Torquay or Rotorua?

Rotorua is great for its historical sights. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Rotorua can be an interesting and educational experience. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.

Is the Food Better in Torquay or Rotorua? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rotorua is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Rotorua has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Torquay or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Torquay and Rotorua.

If you're looking for night time activities Torquay has a few options to choose from. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Rotorua. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Torquay or Rotorua Better for Beaches?

Torquay is an amazing surf town to visit for the beach. However, Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Torquay is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Is Torquay or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Torquay and Rotorua are both places where visitors can find high quality hiking trails.

Many visitors go to Torquay for the hiking trails. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Rotorua is a popular spot for hiking. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Torquay or Rotorua?

If you're looking to go shopping, Torquay and Rotorua both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Torquay. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Many visitors go to Rotorua to go shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Torquay or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

Rotorua is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.

Is Torquay or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for couples.

Rotorua has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

Torquay is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

Is Torquay or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Rotorua is extremely popular for backpackers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Torquay is a good surf town to visit for backpackers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

Is Torquay or Rotorua Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Torquay and Rotorua both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Torquay offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Rotorua has a few public transit options. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Torquay or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Torquay is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Torquay is a very walkable destination. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

For even more information, also check out Is Torquay Worth Visiting? and Is Rotorua Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Torquay?

How long in Torquay or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Torquay and Rotorua. In our opinion, Rotorua has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Rotorua than Torquay. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Rotorua than Torquay. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Rotorua, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Rotorua than Torquay. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Rotorua that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotorua than Torquay if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Rotorua.

One day in Torquay or Rotorua?

In Torquay, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This surf town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Rotorua, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Torquay or Rotorua?

In Torquay, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Torquay has to offer.

In Rotorua, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rotorua has to offer.

Five days in Torquay or Rotorua?

Torquay is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Rotorua is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Torquay or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Torquay. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Torquay. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotorua. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rotorua. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Budget Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Torquay and Rotorua, we can see that Rotorua is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Torquay Expensive? and Is Rotorua Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Torquay or Rotorua?

Rotorua has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Torquay and Rotorua, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Torquay or Rotorua?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Torquay or Rotorua in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Torquay and Rotorua. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Torquay this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rotorua for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Torquay is much warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the summer temperatures in Torquay in January average around 26°C (78°F), and Rotorua averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Torquay gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Torquay usually receives more rain than Rotorua. Torquay gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Torquay or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Torquay as well as Rotorua. Many travelers come to Torquay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rotorua in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Torquay is generally a little warmer than Rotorua. Daily temperatures in Torquay average around 22°C (72°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Torquay usually gets more rain in April than Rotorua. Torquay gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Torquay or Rotorua in the Winter?

Both Rotorua and Torquay are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Torquay in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rotorua for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Torquay is much colder than Rotorua in the winter. The daily temperature in Torquay averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In July, Torquay usually receives more rain than Rotorua. Torquay gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Torquay or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Torquay during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Torquay for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Torquay is a little warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the spring temperatures in Torquay in October average around 21°C (71°F), and Rotorua averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Torquay usually gets more rain in October than Rotorua. Torquay gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Torquay