"On our posters we have depictions of Hinemoa and Tutanekai because it's such a beautiful story and we feel people in Rotorua have a lot to offer in the world of art and design."
He said the first intake for the qualification would be around 25 to 30 people.
"We've had a lot of interest from prospective students and I don't think we'll have a problem filling seats."
Animation College co-founder and owner Barry Pearce said there was a "gap in Rotorua for art-based qualifications".
"I know there are other tertiary providers in Rotorua that do have art courses but they only scratch the surface, they don't get down to the nitty gritty stuff that we do. There is a gaping hole in Rotorua where extensive art qualifications should be.
"There is huge untapped potential in Rotorua and I think we'll do well here."
Mr Pearce said the decision to move to Rotorua was not one driven by revenue.
"We haven't moved here to make money, we moved here because we have a qualification that can lead to an exciting, fun career opportunity and we felt there were people in Rotorua who would benefit from having this qualification in their home town," he said.
"We will be at our current location for about a year and a half before we start to look for a stand alone campus."
The two remaining whanau days will be held on April 20 and May 4 at the Holiday Inn's Kauri Room. Text your name to (021) 1603 640 to register.