Rotorua among NZ's best getaways

Rotorua has been named one of the top five North Island travel destinations over the recent school holidays.

Online travel website Wotif.co.nz has released the top five holiday spots in the North and South islands, with Rotorua coming in at No3 in the north behind Auckland and Wellington. The list is rounded out by Taupo and Hamilton.

Queenstown and Christchurch came out on top of the South Island during the school holiday break.

Wotif.co.nz product director Donna Rodios said while the top three South Island destinations were consistent with last year's Wotif.co.nz annual Top Destinations list, there was one notable new entry.

"Hanmer Springs proved to be a hit these school holidays and pushed Nelson city down to No5," she said.

"Auckland, as usual, was an attractive holiday spot with great activities for all ages, such as the Rainbow's End theme park, Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium and a variety of museums," Ms Rodios said.

Holiday hot spots

Top 5 for North Island

1. Auckland

2. Wellington

3. Rotorua

4. Taupo

5. Hamilton

Top 5 for South Island

1. Queenstown

2. Christchurch

3. Dunedin

4. Hanmer Springs

5. Nelson City