Top 10 reasons to visit Rotorua

No.1 - Rotorua has earth forces that move you

From the moment you enter Rotorua you know you are somewhere like nowhere else. The distinctive smell of sulphur together with drifts of steam escaping into the air let you know you are in Rotorua, New Zealand.

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No.2 - Experience the warmth of a living culture in Rotorua

Rotorua is the heartland of New Zealand 's Maori culture. Enveloping warmth, a proud spirit, a deep sense of history and a quick humour – qualities you will experience in your interaction with local Maori.

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No.3 - Rotorua's sparkling lakeland chain

Our chain of 15 fishable lakes adds sparkle and interest to the landscape around Rotorua and also provides a host of leisure and sporting opportunities.

Ringed by scenic tracts of bush, forest and farmland, Rotorua's lakeland chain was formed and shaped by cataclysmic volcanic activity in times past.

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No.4 - Rotorua offers nature's spa of the South Pacific

Rotorua's reputation as a natural spa destination dates back more than 160 years when the Pink and White Terraces were considered the eighth wonder of the world. Visitors were also drawn by the natural therapeutic waters. The Bath House – promoted as ‘the great spa of the South Pacific', opened in 1908.

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No.5 - Rotorua is an adventure playground

Rotorua is one of New Zealand's top adventure playgrounds. Along with some of the world's best mountain biking trails, the Rotorua district truly does have it all in terms of thrills, leisure and sporting options. Many residents shifted here to enjoy our adventure lifestyle year round.

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No.6 - Rotorua is a fun place for families

Rotorua amazing mix of attractions, activities, lakes, eateries and accommodation options make it the perfect choice for a family holiday. Add a host of free things to do and it makes Rotorua an affordable option too.

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No.7 - Events are a passion in Rotorua

With a proud history of looking after both international and domestic guests, Rotorua is renowned as a friendly and hospitable host. Week in, week out, the city hosts sporting, cultural, and business events as well as conferences and incentive groups, media and film crews, plus school and educational visits.

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No.8 - Rotorua people are hospitable hosts

Rotorua boasts an array of icon experiences that together encapsulate the spirit of this remarkable country. Our welcome to you is “Rotorua – feel the spirit – Manaakitanga.”

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No.9 - Rotorua is centrally located

Located at the heart of the North Island of New Zealand, in the aptly named Bay of Plenty region, Rotorua is easily accessible from the international gateway city of Auckland, which is just 2.5 hours driving time away.

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No.10 - Rotorua's good looks count

Clean cobble-stoned streets, beautifully planted parks and gardens, and lovingly-restored Tudor architecture celebrate Rotorua's colonial past. Winner of four Most Beautiful City awards for 2006, 2002, 2000 and 1999.

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