Midwinter outing attracts big demand

It may be winter but Rotorua is getting into the Christmas spirit - well, the midwinter Christmas spirit.

A record number of people are expected to attend Skyline Rotorua's annual midwinter Christmas function tonight.

More than 270 bookings have already been made.

Skyline sales and marketing manager David Blackmore said the level of interest shown was significantly higher than in the past couple of years.

"There's been a huge amount of interest, it's great to see," he said.

The interest could be a sign that people and businesses were beginning to spend more, Mr Blackmore said. "I think it shows people may have a little more disposable money in their pockets."

Mr Blackmore said midwinter Christmas functions were a good way to celebrate the success of the previous financial year, while avoiding the busy end-of-year period.

"It's also a great way to lift people's spirits during a cold and often dull time of the year," he said.

The Christmas function will include a buffet, DJ entertainment and a gondola ride.

Bookings can be made by phone, (07) 347 0027 ext. 729 or by email, rotoruafunctions@skyline.co.nz.