| rdfs:comment | - Rotorua, with its unique and fascinating geography, has been attracting visitors for more than one and half centuries and is one of the most important tourist resources for New Zealand. The town is located on the banks of Lake Rotorua, set deep in-land in the Bay of Plenty on New Zealand’s north Island. The town is nicknamed “Sulphur City” due to the presence of numerous volcanoes, hot water springs, geysers and boiling mud pools. Upon arriving at Roturua, the visitor immediately finds himself in a place unlike any other, wisps of steam are evident everywhere, in the parks, paths and roads and the smell of sulphur in the air is an indication of what is to come.
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| abstract | - Rotorua, with its unique and fascinating geography, has been attracting visitors for more than one and half centuries and is one of the most important tourist resources for New Zealand. The town is located on the banks of Lake Rotorua, set deep in-land in the Bay of Plenty on New Zealand’s north Island. The town is nicknamed “Sulphur City” due to the presence of numerous volcanoes, hot water springs, geysers and boiling mud pools. Upon arriving at Roturua, the visitor immediately finds himself in a place unlike any other, wisps of steam are evident everywhere, in the parks, paths and roads and the smell of sulphur in the air is an indication of what is to come. A few minutes from the town centre and geysers spurt from the ground and boiling mud gurgles at the visitors feet. The steam, rising from the ground, comes from underground lakes and rivers. The various minerals dissolved in the water, leave a kaleidoscope of colours and shades. The enormous volcanic peaks,now dormant, are a sign of this region’s turbulent past. The volcanic craters are now home to beautiful crystal-clear lakes. Whakarewarewa, situated 3 km from the town on the banks of the river Puarenga, is the best place to admire this geothermal exhibition. Whakarewarewa boasts more than 500 hot springs and is the site of Pohutu, New Zealand’s largest geyser, which erupts on average, 15 times a day, reaching an altitude of 90 feet. In addition to the excellent natural characteristics of the area, the tourist development in Rotorua, owes much to the Maori culture and tradition, which had a large presence in this area, in particular during the 14th century. Rotorua’s Maori exhibitions are the most interesting and accessible in New Zealand. In addition the area of Rotorua, offers a wide variety of past-times, with more than 16 lakes, numerous rivers, mountains and canals, the possibility for adventure is uncountable. Kayaking, sailing and jet-skiing are among the most popular water sports in the area, with many visitors also opting for bungee jumping and hikes up the surrounding volcanoes. Those curious to try something new can have a go at “zorbing”, where upon being strapped into an inflated plastic ball, the thrill- seeker is launched down a 150-metre slope. Many private tour companies operate a service to transport visitors around the area. One of the most popular agencies is Pink Bus, which operates between Waiotapu and Waimangu. Information and a booking service are available at the Rotorua Tourism Office at 67 Fenton St.
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