Speak to anyone who has been to Rotorua and the first thing they’re likely to mention is the sulphurous smell.
Strangely enough, on returning to the city after a 10 year gap, I hardly noticed it.
What I was acutely aware of was the extraordinary amount of tourism development that had taken place in my absence.
So many new activities were on offer that during my four-day visit – hosted by New Zealand specialist ANZCRO – everything I experienced was new to me.
Rotorua is, for good reason, considered one of the world’s most culturally and environmentally unique destinations and there were plenty of opportunities to sample both during the trip, which I undertook along with nine other Travellers Choice members, all winners of our group’s annual Choice Awards.
From a cultural perspective, Te Pā Tū (‘The Gathering Place’) provided an outstanding opportunity to learn about Māori culture and history.
One of things I liked most was the fact that they had young Māori boys and girls telling some of the stories – there’s something inspiring about seeing culture being passed on to new generations.
Rotorua is now promoting itself as the wellness capital of New Zealand and we enjoyed an extraordinary introduction to the concept of a restorative journey at the Wai Ariki (‘chiefly waters’) Hot Springs & Spa.
The experience started with waterfall showers and an ice cave before we sank into the area’s legendary geothermal mud, finally washing it off to emerge relaxed and refreshed.
When it came to exploring the surrounding environment, we were fortunate enough to take a ride in The Airstream Project.
One of Rotorua’s more unusual attractions, the Project is a nine-metre pontoon vessel, the design of which was inspired by “a classic 1960’s Airstream trailer, Second World War aircraft and Italian speed boats”.
We sat back and enjoyed champagne as the vessel cruised across Lake Rotoiti, delivering us at hot springs only accessible by boat.
Personally, I don’t mind a bit of adventure, so the adrenaline-inducing activities on offer were a highlight.
I was particularly looking forward to ziplining with Rotorua Canopy Tours and the experience exceeded even my expectations because – as well as flying through the Okoheriki forest canopy and traversing high-altitude swing bridges – we received insights into the company’s award-winning conservation work.
Marita Behrendorff crossing one of Rotorua Canopy Tours’s swing bridges
Those efforts, to return the forest to its pre-human existence, have seen dramatic drops in the number of introduced pests and the return of critically threatened species.
We also went on a self-drive 4WD bush safari with Off Road NZ, which definitely took me out of my comfort zone.
At one stage I found myself at the wheel, driving straight downhill in a way that was genuinely frightening, but the route is cleverly designed so that the vehicle follows established tracks – ensuring the journey is a lot more controlled (and safer) than you imagine.
In terms of accommodation, our group was among the very first to stay at the luxurious five-star Hana Lodge – an ideal option for groups thanks to the number of rooms.
Based on my experiences, there are a couple of pieces of advice I would pass on to fellow agents.
Ready to embark on a Rotorua Canopy Tour – Marita Behrendorff, Mark Brady from Ballina Cruise Travel and Nicola Strudwick from Travellers Choice
Firstly, on a drive itinerary I would recommend a minimum two-night stay, but preferably three nights, simply because of the number of activities on offer.
I would also question clients to find out their interests and tailor an itinerary to fit – whether it’s food or wine, soft adventure, culture or wellness, there are no shortage of options.
One of things I noticed about Rotorua’s tourism industry is the level of support and camaraderie between local operators.
When they came together one evening during our trip, it was clear they were all exceptionally passionate about their own ventures, but just as invested in the success of their destination. It bodes well for the city’s ongoing success and transformation.
