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 Located in the central North Island, Rotorua is a leisurely three-hour drive from Auckland. With its impressive volcanic landscape, living Maori culture, natural hot springs and opportunties for adventure, Rotorua is one of New Zealand's most famous travel destinations. Time will fly past as you meander through the spectacular countryside. We recommend pulling over occasionaly in your car rental vehicle to take in the scenery.
Rotorua was New Zealand's very first tourist attraction. In the 1800s people came from far and wide to see the amazing Pink and White Terraces. These were naturally formed silica terraces that flowed into the volcanic lake. The local Maori, known as Te Arawa, welcomed these early visitors and often acted as tour guides, leading many tour groups through this scenic area. Unfortuantely the terraces were destroyed in the 1886 erruption of Mt Tarawera but Rotorua's reputation as a tourist destination continues to grow. To this day Maori guides, descendants of the original inhabitiants, still take tour groups throughout Rotorua in the tradition of their ancestors.
The local Maori have a very strong spiritual connection with this area, this connection is based on five pillars or spirits.
The Maori Spirit
For over 600 years the Arawa people have called this unique area their home. As a result, the Maori spirit is alive and well in Rotorua. Visitors are welcome to tour the authentic Maori villages, sample a traditional Maori feast, known as "hangi", and the witness the beauitful song and dance performances that have been handed from generation to generation for centuries.
Be immersed in this ancient culture. Watch master craftsmen as they continue their traditions of carving and weaving, sample contemporary food cooked using traditional methods or participate in Maori singing and dancing shows. You will be so spoilt by your Maori host's warm hospitality that you may find it difficult to get back into your car hire vehicle and drive away.
The Earth's Spirit
You know as soon as you arrive in Rotorua that this is a place like no other on earth. The spirit of the Earth is alive and evidence is all around. Just minutes from the city centre you will find an amazing range of geothermal and volcanic activity sites. From geyers and thermal springs, to mud baths and sinter formations, all of these things point to the incredible natural forces that are at work under the earth. It is worth taking the hire car on a tour around the lakes district which will provide spectacular views.
Nature's Spirit
Rotorua is blessed with abundant natural wonders, most of them available for your enjoyment. The spirit of nature thrives in this natural wonderland. Rotorua's 15 fishable lakes provide anglers with outstanding trout fishing and the rivers and streams provide a variety of freshwater fishing opportunites. The lake chain, which was was formed by volcanic activity in the region, provides an ideal location for swimming, kayaking, and even waterskiing. The scenic tracts of bush and forest in this area provide unique and challenging hiking and mountain biking experiences. Why not take a scenic drive in your car rental vehicle and see with your own eyes the majesty and beauty of this region.
Renew your spirit
Rotorua has long been the place to visit to renew and restore the spirit within. For nearly 2 centuries Rotorua's reputation as a spa destination has continued to grow. Luxurious treatments are available at a range of different locations. Many are a short drive in your car rentals New Zealand vehicle from the centre of town. Try soaking in a hot mineral spring, the reputed healing qualities of these springs bring people back again and again. Unwind with a therapeutic massage or mud wrap, the theraputic benefits of the mineral rich mud deposits have been widely discussed. Many of the local spa businesses services draw on the local mineral and geothermal resources.
Challenge your spirit
Why not challenge your spirit while you are in Rotorua? Adventure seekers are well catered for with a range of extreme activities such as sky-diving, jet boating and zorbing. Zorbing is a distinctly New Zealand activity. Designed in New Zealand a "zorb" is a large spherical enclosure that encases you as you roll down the side of a hill. It is an exhilerating way to spend an afternoon. Rafting, kayaking and sledging are also popular - trips on the Kaituna, Rangitaiki or Wairoa Rivers are a blast!
All of these wonderful activities and experiences are within a very small area. Because of Rotorua's central location its a only short drive in your car hire New Zealand vehicle to other North Island tourist attractions. The nearby sandy beaches at Mt Maunganui are less than 1 hour away. Take in the wonderous views from Tongariro National Parka, a 1.5 hour drive away. Rug up against the cold weather at the North Island ski fields 2.5 hours away. Or stay the night in the wine region of Hawke's Bay which is also 2.5 hours drive. |