The tourism industry is arguably one of the largest and most well-known sectors. It is the district’s largest single employer offering a huge range of employment options with hotels, tourist attractions, airlines, consulting companies, destination marketing, performing arts, event companies, media, educational institutions and local government. Globally recognised for Maori culture and adventure activities, wildlife and geothermal wonders, Rotorua tourism offers many unique employment opportunities.
Tourism does offer a diversity of career paths and a very rewarding future. It is a ‘people’ industry where you can connect with different cultures, impress guests with impeccable service and provide the most memorable lifetime experience. In an industry which recognises talent, progression to a position of responsibility can be rapid, not to mention the travel opportunities.
Supporting the vibrant tourism sector is Rotorua’s large hospitality industry. Those looking for work with a customer focus, can find opportunities with the several large international hotel brands, top-quality cafes, restaurants and other food services throughout the city. Rotorua also hosts many large corporate and sporting events throughout the year.
The types of roles available in tourism and hospitality include business management, sustainable resource management, operations, PR and communications, IT, event management, maintenance, sales and marketing, finance, human resources, linguistics and translation, professional cookery and patisserie, social media, planning, business development and customer service.
Rotorua is proudly home to many leading tourism businesses including:
- Agrodome – New Zealand’s world first sheep show and farm tour
- Agroventures – Home to world and New Zealand first adventure activities
- Brew Bar – Home of Rotorua’s award-winning Croucher Brewing Craft Beer
- Canopy Tours - New Zealand’s only zip line tour through native forest
- Event Promotions – New Zealand’s largest sporting event organiser
- OGO New Zealand – Home of the world’s first big inflatable ball
- Pig & Whistle – One of the most popular bars in Rotorua
- Skyline Skyrides – Home to the world’s first luge (part go-kart, part toboggan)
- Tamaki Maori Village – New Zealand’s most awarded cultural tourism attraction
- Tree Tops – Home to one of the most luxurious lodge experiences in New Zealand