A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zhengzhou vs. Rotorua for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Zhengzhou or Rotorua?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Zhengzhou and Rotorua can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Zhengzhou or Rotorua?

Zhengzhou

Along the Yellow River, a city from the future and the past resides. Ancient pagodas, futuristic domes, verdant gardens - Zhengzhou is a myriad of many worlds in one urban area. The provincial capital of the Henan Province, Zhengzhou is the encapsulation of a perfect city from its delicate balance of the natural and urban spheres. It was born during the Sui Dynasty, and its actual location was in the modern-day Chenggao. Moreover, Zhengzhou works as the political, economic, technological, and educational center of the province. The city is also one of the eight great ancient capitals of China, with a collection of architecture and art originating during iconic dynasties. These relics of the old world include the Shaolin Monastery, Henan Museum, the Pagoda Forest, the Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory, the Songyue Pagoda, the Emperors of Yan and Huang, and the scenic views of the Yellow River. With over nine million inhabitants, Zhengzhou continues to grow at a thriving rate. It also should be noted that in June 2012, Greater Zhengzhou was named one of the thirteen emerging megacities in China according to the Economist Intelligent Unit. Known internationally for its amazing culmination of culture and history, Zhengzhou is the ideal city for travelers and inhabitants alike.

Rotorua

Located on the banks of Lake Rotorua, Rotorua is famous as the thermal wonderland of New Zealand. The area has a variety of geothermal sights, but it is also close to several lakes and has more traditional activities as well, including fishing, boating and white water rafting.

Rotorua is located in the Taupo Volcanic Zone, which is the largest volcano in the area. There are four major volcanic calderas that now have lakes, and several other volcanoes in the area. Rotorua sits on top of a thermal hot spring, and there are many vents and hot pools throughout the area. Many of the hot pools and sights are located within parks, with some of the best being Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Rainbow Springs Nature Park, and Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.

Rotorua has a warm, temperate climate. Because of the area's inland location, it has less wind than many places in New Zealand. Temperatures during the winter months can fall to below freezing, but snow is incredibly rare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Shanghai, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Rotorua or Zhengzhou?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Zhengzhou is $98, while the average daily cost in Rotorua is $93. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zhengzhou and Rotorua in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zhengzhou $36
    Rotorua $48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zhengzhou $72
    Rotorua $96
Compare Hotels in Zhengzhou and Rotorua

Looking for a hotel in Zhengzhou or Rotorua? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Zhengzhou


Hotels in Rotorua


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Rotorua Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zhengzhou $63
    Rotorua $5.01

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:

  • [Airport Transfer] Zhengzhou Xinjiang International Airport Zhengzhou City Transfer There is a reputation for high service! : $27
  • Private Guided Tour/Transfer to Shaolin Temple: $98
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $31
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $53
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $65
  • Zhengzhou Special Car Service, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
  • Zhengzhou Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
  • Private transfer to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $108
  • Private Transfer to Shaolin Temple or Dengfeng from Zhengzhou Train station: $132
  • Private Transfer to Guoliang Village and Tunnel from Zhengzhou: $160
  • Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes : $95

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotorua

Also for Rotorua, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Rotorua to Auckland Afternoon Transfer with Waitomo Glow Worms: $180

Is it cheaper to fly into Zhengzhou or Rotorua?

Prices for flights to both Rotorua and Zhengzhou change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Zhengzhou $28
    Rotorua $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zhengzhou

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zhengzhou.

  • Zhengzhou Erqi Square and Night Markets Private Tour including Dinner: $145

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rotorua

For Rotorua, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Mitai Maori Village: Cultural Experience and Dinner Buffet: $92
  • Te Pa Tu Māori Cultural Experience with Dinner: $154

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zhengzhou $8.18
    Rotorua $34

Tours and Activities in Zhengzhou

Here are a few actual costs in Zhengzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Guoliangcun from Zhengzhou: $265
  • All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $275
  • All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Yuntai Mountain from Zhengzhou: $265
  • All inclusive Anyang Yin Xu ruins and Character Museum day tour from Zhengzhou: $209
  • Full-Day Private Kaifeng Highlight Tour from Zhengzhou: $248
  • Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $188
  • Kaifeng City Highlights Independant Tour from Zhengzhou: $80
  • Private Day Tour to Guoliang from Zhengzhou: $268
  • Private Day Tour to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $210
  • Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Songyang Academy from Zhengzhou: $233
  • Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou with Flexiable Departure Time: $198
  • Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple with Kungfu Class from Zhengzhou: $287

Typical Entertainment Prices in Rotorua

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Rotorua's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Lunch Out for Two
    $27

Tours and Activities in Rotorua

For Rotorua, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Jade Carving Experience at a Local Studio: $21
  • Mountain Jade Highlights Tour: $21
  • Government Gardens Walking Tour: $23
  • Geothermal Mineral Baths Experience: Pavilion Pools for 12+: $27
  • Whakarewarewa Village Guided Tour: $27
  • Geothermal Adults Only Mineral Bathing - Pavilion Pools Bathing Ticket: $27
  • Whakarewarewa Village Guided Tour: $27
  • Agrodome Farm Tour with Show and Produce Tasting: $29
  • Agrodome Farm Experience including Farm Show and Farm Tour - Rotorua: $30
  • The National Kiwi Hatchery Tour: $35
  • National Kiwi Hatchery - Kiwi Encounter Tour: $37
  • Velocity Valley Ticket: $39

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zhengzhou $6.31
    Rotorua $12

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rotorua

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rotorua:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $11


When comparing the travel costs between Zhengzhou and Rotorua, we can see that Zhengzhou 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. Even though Zhengzhou is in Asia and Rotorua is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Zhengzhou or Rotorua?

Zhengzhou has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Zhengzhou 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 Zhengzhou or Rotorua?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rotorua is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Zhengzhou has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Zhengzhou or Rotorua in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zhengzhou as well as Rotorua. Also, many visitors come to Rotorua in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zhengzhou is generally much warmer than Rotoruain January. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 28°C (83°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Zhengzhou receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zhengzhou usually gets more rain in July than Rotoruain January. Zhengzhou gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Zhengzhou 28°C (83°F) 
    Rotorua 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Zhengzhou or Rotorua in the Autumn?

Both Rotorua and Zhengzhou are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Zhengzhou is around the same temperature as Rotorua in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zhengzhou averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in April.

In October, Zhengzhou usually receives more rain than Rotoruain April. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F) 
    Rotorua 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Zhengzhou or Rotorua in the Winter?

Both Rotorua and Zhengzhou during the winter are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zhengzhou can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zhengzhou is much colder than Rotorua. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zhengzhou in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Rotorua averages at about 26°C (79°F)in July.

Zhengzhou usually gets more rain in January than Rotoruain July. Zhengzhou gets 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Zhengzhou 1°C (34°F) 
    Rotorua 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Zhengzhou or Rotorua in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zhengzhou and Rotorua. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

In April, Zhengzhou is generally cooler than Rotoruain October. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 16°C (61°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In April, Zhengzhou usually receives more rain than Rotoruain October. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F) 
    Rotorua 19°C (66°F)

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Zhengzhou

Zhengzhou Rotorua
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
May 22°C (71°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Jun 27°C (80°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Jul 28°C (83°F) 137 mm (5.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 121 mm (4.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 24°C (75°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (61°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)