Rotorua third most popular holiday spot

Polynesian Spa in Rotorua. Photo / Chris McLennan

Rotorua is now the third most popular school-holiday destination in New Zealand, according to leading travel website Wotif.

The website recently released the most popular summer holiday destinations according to year-on-year accommodation bookings.

Wotif.co.nz New Zealand product manager Renee Piggott said although Auckland and Wellington remained the top-booked destinations in New Zealand, it was Rotorua, up 15 per cent, which showed the biggest increase.

"With all that Rotorua offers families it is no surprise it has proven popular over the school holidays.

"From relaxing in hot pools, mountain biking, fishing and ziplining through native forest, there is something for all ages in Rotorua," Ms Piggott said.

Destination Rotorua Marketing consumer marketing manager Brenna Townshend said the increase of Wotif bookings was a great result for the region with recent domestic marketing activity, such as the Famously Rotorua campaign and local events, likely attributing to the growth.

"We've been sharing stories with New Zealanders about Rotorua's incredible array of tourism attractions while also encouraging them to explore our natural assets like the forest, lakes and rivers, which has been really well received.

"By marketing events, suggested itineraries, seasonal trip ideas and blogs, we're working to capture the imaginations of Kiwis for their weekend getaways and holidays.

"Rotorua has also had some significant events over summer drawing crowds to the city including GLO Festival, NZ National Rugby Sevens and Raggamuffin."

Other North Island destinations such as Taupo and Hamilton also proved popular with both rising 11 per cent compared to the same time last year.

Ms Piggott said the top three South Island destinations were consistent with last year.

The top 10 NZ destinations for summer school holidays

1 Auckland
2 Wellington
3 Rotorua
4 Queenstown
5 Christchurch
6 Taupo
7 Napier
8 Hamilton
9 Dunedin
10 Nelson