Rotorua: A Geothermal Wonderland
Rotorua, a city with a population of around 60,000, is located on the edge of Lake Rotorua. It is renowned for its active geothermal features, making it a significant part of New Zealand's tourism landscape for over 140 years. The lake itself is a 240,000-year-old caldera, part of a vast volcanic region extending from White Island through Rotorua and Taupō to Tongariro National Park.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The name Rotorua derives from the Māori words 'roto' (lake) and 'rua' (two), meaning 'Lake Two'. This name was given by Te Arawa rangatira and explorer Ihenga, as it was the second major lake he discovered in the area. The Te Arawa people have a long-standing connection with Rotorua, dating back to Ihenga's arrival.
European settlers first arrived in the late 1820s, and soon after, tourists began visiting to experience the geysers and hot pools. Although the New Zealand Wars of the 1860s temporarily impacted the region, by 1883, Rotorua was designated a spa town. In a significant meeting between Māori and European representatives, Māori gifted 50 hectares of thermal springs "hei oranga mō ngā iwi katoa o te Ao", meaning "for the benefit of the people of the world."
Development of Spa Facilities
Following this agreement, several spa facilities were established near the lake's edge, between Sulphur Point and Te Ruapeka Bay. Notable developments included the Bath House (now a museum), Government Gardens, and the Polynesian Pools (now the Polynesian Spa). These facilities utilized water piped directly from nearby thermal springs. This practice continued until the 1980s when the geysers began to diminish, leading to the closure of boreholes.
Exploring Rotorua's Attractions
A walk around Government Gardens and the nearby lake walkway offers insight into the origins of Rotorua's tourism industry. Access to the Gardens is available from the northeast side of downtown Rotorua. Additionally, to the south of central Rotorua, you can visit Whakarewarewa Forest, home to the stunning Redwoods, and learn about the development of New Zealand's exotic timber industry.
Getting to Rotorua
Rotorua is easily accessible by road. If you're driving from Auckland, take State Highway 1 south, then State Highway 5 to reach Rotorua. The journey takes approximately three hours. From Wellington, travel north on State Highway 1, then take State Highway 5, with a travel time of around six hours. Rotorua is also well-connected by bus services from major cities.
Once in Rotorua, there are many activities around the region, including Kerosene Creek, Lake Tarawera, Lake Ōkataina and Okere Falls.
