Dutch TV makes flying visit to Rotorua (+video)

A Dutch TV show has made an overnight stop in Rotorua, showcasing local culture and icons.

Reality show Love is in the Air reunites Dutch people with their families in faraway countries.

Show producer Caspar Geelhoed said most of the time those featured had not been able to visit relatives because of financial reasons and difficulties getting there.

He said host Robert ten Brink surprised the people in the Netherlands and took them to the other side of the world where they surprised the relatives.

The families generally reunited for between two to four weeks before they flew back on their own, Mr Geelhoed said.

The crew arrived in Auckland last week, on their way to reunite a family with their daughter/sister living in Waipukurau, and a woman with her sister living in Te Awamutu.

They stopped over in Rotorua for a night on the way to reunite the two families.

"We picked Rotorua because it has so much culture and things to do and see. It's really special."

They stayed at the Black Swan hotel where a group of Maori performers greeted their guests.
The next day they filmed at Te Puia.

Mr Geelhoed said he loved it here, though the smell was "a bit weird".

Destination Rotorua trade manager Patrick Dault said hosting popular international television shows such as Love is in the Air was hugely important for the Rotorua visitor industry.

He said it had allowed a large Dutch audience to get a glimpse into the unique and memorable experiences to be had in this region.

It showcased icons such as Lake Rotorua and Pohutu Geyser, and some of the activities which make Rotorua such a great place to visit, Mr Dault said.