A delegation of international diplomats has been in Rotorua for two days to find out what drives the city's economy.
The delegation of 16 included ambassadors and high commissioners to New Zealand from Africa, the Middle East, Asia, North and South America, Europe and the Pacific. They were in Rotoruaon Thursday and Friday.
The theme of the visit, organised by Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was "Business aspirations for the future - the importance of the international marketplace for Rotorua and the surrounding region".
Following a traditional Maori welcome at Te Papaiouru Marae, Rotorua District Council managers presented an overview of the district and the council's role in the local economy and highlighted investment opportunities in the city.
The council's economic and regulatory services group manager, Mark Rawson, said the visiting diplomats were given the opportunity to experience indigenous tourism, learn about local innovation in forestry and wood processing and gain appreciation of iwi-based economic development.
"It's been a real coup to have had these high-powered international delegates choosing to come to our city to gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the region's economic drivers and to connect with business, local government and iwi leaders.
"Everyone enjoyed their visit, learnt a lot and we certainly now look forward to forging ongoing relationships for the future."
Romanian ambassador Dr Mihai Stefan Stuparu said he enjoyed visiting Rotorua. "I found it fascinating to see how the Maori culture is preserved and promoted - a good example for other countries to learn from.
"I can see opportunities with geothermal spa and wellness, especially with the aging population. Traditional and natural healing is very popular in Romania and this could be further explored as it would be of interest to many European countries."
Pakistan High Commissioner Syed Ibne Abbas said there was an opportunity for Rotorua to develop a halal tourism product for Muslim travellers.
