Opportunities for hot springs and spa development in Rotorua are on the agenda for Mayor Steve Chadwick when she visits Rotorua's Japanese sister city, Beppu, this week.
Mrs Chadwick has accepted an invitation from Beppu's mayor, Hiroshi Hamada, to join commemorations marking its 90th anniversary of city status and the 100th anniversary of its hot springs festival.
Mrs Chadwick said Beppu was recognised internationally for its highly developed geothermal attractions and hot springs, or "onsen" as they are known in Japan, and as a major tourism destination.
She and her delegation will be in Beppu for five nights, with the cost of arrangements covered by Beppu's city council.
Mr Hamada's invitation also provided a timely opportunity to investigate hot springs and geothermal opportunities for our city, Mrs Chadwick said.