Rotorua

With a current population of 77,400 people, Rotorua is the second largest urban area in the Bay of Plenty. Its close proximity to recreational forests and lakes makes it an attractive destination to work, live and play.

Just as they have been for more than 150 years, tourism and forestry remain the district’s predominant industries. While these sectors continue to have their roots in this legacy, the district leads the country and the rest of the world in new innovations and opportunities – and in many cases, combining the two.

Rotorua is home to both Crown research institute Scion, and Te Uru Rakau – the New Zealand Forest Service which supports the industry around climate change and transformation, helping develop Māori land opportunities, native planting and workforce development.

Originally established in 1947, Scion specialises in research, science and technology for the forestry, wood product and processing, wood-derived materials and biomaterial sectors, including sustainable forest management, biosecurity and risk mitigation, waste streams and more.

Aotearoa New Zealand’s progression towards a low carbon economy means the district offers significant opportunities around climate change mitigation, and in particular, with the offsetting of carbon emissions.

The local geothermal activity is one of the most obvious visual landmarks in the region, with the resource playing an active role in the local tourism and health sectors. Ngāti Whakaue’s new Wai Ariki spa (in construction) and the new QE health facility will shine a new spotlight on the use of the resource in the coming months.

For further information about opportunities in the district contact Rotorua Economic Development.

Key contacts:

Andrew Wilson
Chief Executive
andrew.wilson@rotoruanz.com
(07) 348 5179
www.rotoruanz.com/do-business