Jousters could be heading for Rotorua

Locals, it's time to brush up on your medieval history as Rotorua is in the running to host one of the country's largest faires.

The annual faire has been held in Taupo for the past two years but event facilitator Andria Goodliffe said it was on the move.

"We can't confirm when or where the next event will be, but organisers are working to nail down a central location that is big enough and allows for camping.

"The faire would be great for Rotorua as people from all over the country often take part.

We are waiting to find the perfect place to host the event, and at this stage, Rotorua is still very much in the running."

She said while events and vendors at the faire differed every year, locals could expect a range of historic merriment, knight fights, massed battles, siege artillery, pole lathe and arts.

"We always try to base the event around a historic anniversary. In 2015 it was the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta and we put on a play about it. Next year it will be the 950th anniversary of the history-changing Battle of Hastings so that could be our focus.

"Some re-enactors will also set up a living history encampment and people will get the chance to barter at the medieval traders' market. Each year we get a lot of people checking the faire out because they see it when passing by."

Rotorua-based Lakes Falcons medieval club captain Deborah Campbell said she was the one who put her hand up to have the faire held in Rotorua.

"The profile of the medieval movement is being raised and having this event in our city would do wonders for getting more members.

"Going to medieval faires feels like you are being transported back in time and who wouldn't love to experience that?" she said. "Rotorua is pretty central to most areas in the North Island so hopefully we can lock down a place within the city to hold the faire."