As well as being New Zealand’s heartland of Māori culture and the centre of one of the Pacific’s most active thermal regions, Rotorua is a popular destination for thrills and adventures.

Three Rugby World Cup 2011 pool matches will be held in Rotorua, and the city is hosting teams from Namibia, Samoa, Ireland, Fiji and Russia. The central location is also likely to make the region a popular stopping-off point for fans as they travel to other host cities.

Fred and Alex of Gay Rotorua say they want to ensure that guests leave with a positive and lasting impression of Rotorua, and memories of friendly and welcoming people. “Along with spa rejuvenation, some of the world’s best mountain biking trails, fantastic trout fishing, golf and myriad forest walking tracks, even gay-friendly nightlife, we think Rotorua offers a lot that will be of interest to lesbian and gay travellers, regardless if they are RWC fans.”

See Gay Rotorua for accommodations and activities.