A hot spot for outdoor events

STUNNING: Geothermal landscapes gives Rotorua an edge over other centres. PHOTO/GRAEME MURRAY

Rotorua's ability to show off "stunning" natural assets makes it an attractive choice for hosting major events, the city's tourism manager said.

The $300,000 to be invested by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment in the Vibram Tarawera Ultra Marathon was another boost to the city, added Destination Rotorua Marketing manager Oscar Nathan.

The Major Events Fund investment will be drip fed $100,000 a year for three years to promote the 100km trail running event overseas.

Last year, Rotorua also received Major Events funding to host the 2013 World Rafting Championships in November and won an International Festivals and Events Association World Festival and Event City Award.

Mr Nathan said the city's calendar was full of premium outdoor events and festivals including the iconic Rotorua Marathon celebrating its 50th year, XTERRA, 3D Rotorua, the Walking Festival, Tough Guy, Moonride, 2W Gravity Enduro, Running Festival, XRACE, Whaka 100, and the Bike Festival, just to name a few.

Having a clear focus on Rotorua's point of difference was why the city successfully attracted so many big events and was able to reap the economic rewards, he continued.

"Many cities in New Zealand are competing for that lucrative event tourism dollar but we stand out by hosting events that showcase Rotorua's stunning mix of natural assets such as our forests, lakes and rivers," Mr Nathan added.

Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick said major events provided significant economic stimulus, which extended beyond the immediate impact of bed nights.

"The media coverage we receive from sporting events like these directly reaches out to people abroad, arousing interest in Rotorua and promoting tourism in our district," Mrs Chadwick said. "This funding is very welcome as it complements our Rotorua 2030 vision, and supports our strategies for economic growth and for sports and recreation."

Rotorua District Council economic growth strategy leader councillor Mike McVicker said it was a vote of confidence in Rotorua's tourism and hospitality sector and for the various event organisers.

"Rotorua has found its niche," he added .