20 million Koreans view Rotorua sights

Korean singer Yoon Minsoo and his son Yoon Hoo enjoyed fishing on Rotorua's lakes.

An estimated 20 million Korean TV viewers have just watched a show featuring Rotorua's people and attractions.

Sunday night's episode of Korea's most popular reality show Dad, where are we going? was the first of three filmed in New Zealand, mainly in Rotorua.

The show features five celebrity fathers and their children undertaking weekly challenges.
Producer Kang Goong said they came to New Zealand for the final episodes of the series because of its strong connections between the environment and its people.

The cast and crew filmed in Rotorua for two nights and three days over Labour Weekend.

They visited Skyline, OGO and the Agrodome, as well as Wai-o-Tapu and Te Puia.

Vibe singer Yoon Minsoo, broadcaster Kim Seong-joo, soccer player Song Jong-guk and actors Song Dong-il and Lee Jong-hyuk were hosted overnight by Rotorua homestay hosts so their children could interact with typical Kiwi kids.

Homestay co-ordinator, Look After Me's Julia Charity, said the Rotorua host families were perfect ambassadors. The five families took their guests lake fishing, motor biking and to the park to play rugby. They also got them planting vegetables and doing a DIY backyard project.

"As Kiwis, we have an enviable lifestyle, I'm sure it will hit a chord with Korean viewers," said Ms Charity.

Mr Goong said the celebrities had a lot of fun in Rotorua.

"We got a real sense of your values, the laid-back culture and the quality of food you eat."