Rotorua
This
region is centred on the geothermal resort city of Rotorua.
Rotorua is one of the original tourist destinations in New Zealand - it
has been welcoming visitors for more than 200 years. From the moment people
arrive in Rotorua they know they're somewhere quite different. There is
a scent of sulphur in the air. At nearby geothermal hotspots, there are
spouting geysers, boiling mud pools and warm geothermal springs. Silica
terraces are naturally decorated with a kaleidoscope of colours.
Rotorua is the heartland of New Zealand Maori culture, and visitors have
the opportunity to experience the warm spirit of Te Maori. Although most
of the Maori population live in the urban areas, there are about 35 marae
(meeting grounds) in the Rotorua district. You may be lucky to enough
to stay as a guest on a marae - an unforgettable experience. Or you could
catch a Maori cultural performance, where stories are relayed through
beautiful song and dance. You can also indulge in a traditional hangi
feast - the food is cooked below the ground in earthen ovens.
The Rotorua region is also one of New Zealand’s prime trout fishing
spots - you’re practically guaranteed a catch, especially if a local
professional guide is hired. Many of the volcanic crater lakes are home
to a plentiful stock of trophy-sized rainbow trout.
Rotorua is fast becoming known as Nature's Spa of the South Pacific. After
a hard day's sightseeing or strenuous activity, visitors can relax with
a soak in the healing waters of the geothermal hot springs, or totally
unwind by choosing from a selection of therapeutic spa and massage therapies.