In our opinion it's a very good time to be from or living in Rotorua. We have a real passion for this region and really feel, that at times, it's been given a bad rap for all the wrong reasons. Now that the media have stopped focusing on the negatives (every town/city in the world has some of these) the conversation about Rotorua has shifted to focus on what's great about living where we do. So, we thought we would take this opportunity to share why we love living in our little slice of paradise:
1) Geothermal wonders - sure this is more of a tourist focus and it's easy to take it for granted, but it's actually a real gift. The fact that on any given day we can take a walk and watch the earth bubble and blow off steam is something very few people on our planet can do so close to home.
2) Maori Cultural Heritage - again this is something that has become a commercialised, but that's for good reason. People find this fascinating and it's one of the few places in New Zealand we strongly celebrate Maori culture. We love the fact that it's actually part of our community and we're New Zealands only bilingual city. To hear people using Te Reo on a daily basis in our office and in the street is something very special.
3) The Bay Steamers - we haven't always had much to celebrate here, but as we write this our boys are getting ready to play the Wellington Lions in the final of the Mitre 10 Cup Championship. Such a great effort, come on boys bring it home!
4) It's beautiful -Rotorua is one of only a few cities in New Zealand built next to a lake. Not just one lake but 10 lakes (if you include the main ones). Each has its own unique beauty and favourite local hang out spots. While you're on or around the lakes you get to stare at the surrounding hills, volcanos and forests.
