Rotorua struts its stuff for overseas glossy

Model Metsy Ariotedjo during yesterday's photo shoot at Skyline Rotorua. Photo/Ben Fraser

Rotorua's spectacular scenery has provided the backdrop to a glitzy magazine photo shoot featuring a top Indonesian model.

Internationally renowned model Mesty Ariotedjo and a crew from Harper's Bazaar Indonesia magazine arrived in Rotorua on Tuesday for photo shoots and a travel article for the high-end fashion and lifestyle magazine.

Destination Rotorua Marketing general manager Oscar Nathan said it was fitting the group chose to travel to Rotorua as the region was renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and natural attractions.

While in Rotorua the group will visit Skyline Rotorua, Rotorua Canopy Tours, OGO, Te Puia NZMACI, the Whakarewarewa Forest, Hells Gate and Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Valley - stopping to experience each location and use it as a backdrop for a photo shoot.

Ms Ariotedjo said OGO had been a highlight so far and she had been impressed by the beautiful scenery, which reminded her of Indonesia.

Ms Ariotedjo was also impressed with the food - especially at Urbano Bistro.

She said she hadn't heard much about New Zealand before coming here but had heard about its good education and health care systems.

Tourism New Zealand director trade, PR and major events Justin Watson said the photo shoot helped to raise awareness of New Zealand, stimulate demand and drive arrivals from emerging markets like Indonesia.

"Using Rotorua's numerous picturesque locations as the back-drop for the fashion shoot offers a unique view of our country - which is sure to drive potential visitors' desire to visit themselves," he said.

The article and photos will appear in the May issue of the magazine.