Rotorua, the heartland of New Zealand and centre of Maori culture. he first inhabitants, the Maori, arrived around the 10th century in double-hulled canoe from islands somewhere to the north. Maori called the land Aotearoa, translations of the name Aotearoa include "land of the long white cloud" and "land of the lingering day". In Whakarewarewa-park you can enjoy the "arts and crafts" (among other things: woodcarving, weaving and jade and bone carving). You can visit the "Mai-Ora". This traditional evening starts with the official Maori welcome, dancing, the wellknown "haka", games, showing of weapons used in the past. It includes a "hangi" meal, in this case cooked with the natural steam.

Rotorua, beautiful colonial town. otorua has about 60.000 citizens. The main industries are: forestry, tourism and farming. There are many excellent restaurants to choose from. There are 14 lakes in the area. During summer the day-temperatures are high (around 25ºC), during winter the coldest it gets is 12-14ºC. Rotorua received "The most Beautiful City"-award for the the last 2 years. Rotorua Museum is housed in a building with a romantic past (see right-side picture). Named the Bath House and opened in 1908, it was designed along the lines of European spas and represents the New Zealand Government's first major investment in the tourism industry.

Rotorua, Mother Nature on display. n Whakarewarewa the geysers never sleep. Experience the awesome power of Pohutu and The Prince of Wales Geysers. Just out of Rotorua, on the way to Taupo is Wai-o-Tapu thermal wonderland. This is New Zealands most colourful and diverse volcanic area. Or go for a walk in the beautiful Redwood forest, on the outskirts of Rotorua. Walks are from 30 minutes to 8 hours and information and maps are available at the info centre. Visit the Buried Village, covered by the last eruption of Mt. Tarawera in 1886. A museum introduces visitors to the fascinating drama and brings history alive today. A steep track leads to The Te Wairoa falls and cascades down through dense native bush. To visit the vulcano, it is possible to take a 4 wheel drive or climb the mountain. If you want to climb the mountain, you'll have to plan a whole day for this. For people that like walking there is also the Rotorua Legends & Historical walk with Superia Tours. Ria and Sonny also organise private tours in and around Rotorua.

Rotorua, famous for its mineral waters. olynesian Spa is a place where you can soak in these waters, have a relaxing massage or be spoiled with other retreat therapies.

Rotorua, the right spot for fishing. f fishing is what you would like to do, Rotorua’s lake and streams provide excellent spots for fishing. Take some time off and treat yourself on a day filled with tranquility, action and fresh food. To ensure a perfect day, get yourself a professional guide. A great fishing guide will collect you from Country Villa and after some exciting hours on the water,will drop you off again, usually with your catch. Your trout can be smoked for you.

New Zealand, green meadows with millions of sheep. he agrodome has a Farm show where they show you how to shear a sheep, milk a cow and use the "sheep-dogs" to drive the sheep. It is a fun show.

Rotorua, more fun, beauty and adventure. or fun and view you have to go up with Skyline Skyrides. Have a go on the luge or any of the other attractions. The buffet meal is excellent and the views by day or night just fantastic. For a bit of adventure, nothing can beat some exciting white water rafting. Different grades available from Fun for all to The ultimate with an awesome drop of 7 metres in the Grade 5- the ultimate one. If time is running out and you still want to see a lot, fly. From above the Rotorua lakes and the crater of Mt.Tarawera, to a landing on White Island, an active vulcano, just of the coast in the Bay of Plenty. Flights depart from the Rotorua Lakefront or by special request helicopter tours can depart from the Country Villa front lawn.

See more of New Zealand uring the winter a 2 1/2 drive will take you to Mount Ruapehu for a day ski-ing. Mt. Ruapehu is South of Taupo. After a warm "spa" holiday in Rotorua, fly 2 hours to Queenstown- a popular ski resort down the South Island. During the summer it takes less than an hours drive to get to the most beautiful beaches at Mount Maunganui, close to Tauranga. Even during winter it is great to walk along these beaches and you'll wonder where all the people are, its just so quiet and peaceful. If you want more tips for your stay in New Zealand, contact us at Country Villa. The quality of your vacation is our concern. Click Here to check Current Availability.