Rotorua’s economic future is a vision of collaboration, innovation, and cultural respect

RotoruaNZ is deeply committed to fostering economic growth in Rotorua through collaboration, cultural integration, and innovation. Rotorua’s identity, rich in natural wonders and cultural heritage, forms the foundation of our approach. Together with researchers, businesses, and local iwi, we are shaping an economy that not only thrives but also reflects the values of our community.

The following is a summary of an article originally published in Bay of Plenty Business News.

Collaboration with Māori is integral to RotoruaNZ's economic strategy. The Rotorua Forest Futures Action Plan, co-developed with local iwi, forestry leaders, and organisations such as Whenua Oho, exemplifies this approach. Rotorua’s forestry sector has long been a cornerstone of the Rotorua economy, but this initiative takes it further, embedding sustainability and climate resilience into its core.

Māori ownership and expertise play a pivotal role in driving innovation within the sector. From planting diverse species to fostering a circular bioeconomy, this plan envisions a future where forestry creates economic opportunities while respecting and enhancing the land. It is a testament to the potential of aligning economic goals with cultural values.

Another significant project is our partnership with the Peka Lands Trust. The Trust's vision of transforming 13 hectares of harvested pine forest into an industrial hub is an inspiring example of long-term planning. With our assistance in securing $6 million from the Regional Strategic Partnership Fund, this initiative promises jobs, business growth, and wealth for more than 2,000 beneficiaries. This collaboration underscores the importance of iwi-led economic development and its transformative impact on a community.

Rotorua’s spa and wellness industry is another pillar of our economy, deeply intertwined with Māori heritage. Geothermal resources, long celebrated for their healing properties, are central to this sector. Developments like the $60 million Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa highlight the potential for wellness tourism to generate substantial economic benefits while sharing authentic Māori culture with the world. In 2023 alone, wellness tourism contributed $277.6 million to Rotorua's economy, and the sector’s growth trajectory is extraordinary.

RotoruaNZ also champions smaller ventures that celebrate the region’s unique charm. One example is Kārearea Nest, a secluded retreat offering luxury accommodation and a deep connection to the land. Supporting such businesses enriches our tourism offerings and reinforces the cultural and natural authenticity that makes Rotorua a must-visit destination.

Collaboration extends beyond tourism and forestry. Scion’s Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park clearly demonstrates the power of partnerships in action. Scion, a world-renowned research hub in Rotorua, exemplifies innovation through its work in forestry, industrial biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing. The campus is home to 42 tenants, including businesses like Cetogenix, who collaborate with Scion to scale its cutting-edge technologies.

Scion’s partnerships extend across industries and regions. It has worked with companies such as Zespri to create biodegradable utensils from kiwifruit residue, Upflow to produce livestock feed from greenhouse gases, and Timberlands on fertiliser trials to boost forestry productivity. Each of these collaborations demonstrates how co-location and shared resources drive innovation and economic growth.

Scion’s vision for its campus includes becoming a world-class hub for innovation, collaboration, and public engagement. By working closely with iwi, such as Ngā Hapū e Toru, the organisation plans to integrate cultural heritage into its initiatives while building community capability through education and outreach. The potential impact of these efforts is staggering, with independent reports estimating an additional $30 billion in national revenue.

The projects at Scion, alongside our initiatives at RotoruaNZ, position Rotorua as a leader in creating a resilient, low-carbon economy. By leveraging local strengths and fostering global partnerships, we are building a future that prioritises high-value jobs, exports, and sustainable growth.

Whether it’s working with iwi on long-term forestry plans, supporting local businesses, or fostering innovation at Scion, the outcomes are richer and more inclusive when we align our efforts with the values of our community. Rotorua’s greatest strength is its people. Together, we are shaping an economy that celebrates our cultural heritage, embraces innovation, and looks to the future with resilience. Rotorua is not just a place to visit – it’s a thriving hub of opportunity, and we are proud to be part of the journey to realise its full potential.