For Immediate Release

April 29, 2011

Rainbow Springs $10m expansion to invigorate Rotorua tourism

Destination Rotorua Tourism Marketing and Rotorua Tourism Committee are delighted at the recent announcement from Rainbow Springs Wildlife Park regarding their forthcoming $10 million expansion project. 

Work is due to begin within the next month on 'Project Big Splash', a high-tech water ride flowing through Rainbow Springs following the ecological evolution of New Zealand. The highly interactive ride, which will both inform and excite park visitors, will be the only ride of its kind in New Zealand.

Rotorua Tourism Committee deputy chairman Oscar Nathan welcomed the announcement, saying the investment is a clear indication of the tourism industry’s confidence in Rotorua as a premier tourist destination.

"In these difficult economic times, a significant commercial investment of this scale is a shining example of a company with the foresight and confidence to invest in the long term future of our tourism industry and Ngai Tahu are to be applauded," Mr Nathan said.

Destination Rotorua Tourism Marketing general manager Don Gunn echoed Mr Nathan’s remarks, commenting on Ngai Tahu’s commitment and enthusiasm to the tourism industry.

"Rotorua is already renowned for its innovative and unique tourism offerings that attract visitors from both domestic and international markets and this project will reinforce that profile," Mr Gunn said. 

“It is so important for any destination to have new and refreshed products, so this will be great for Rotorua.”

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For further information contact:

Don Gunn
+64 7 351 7101
+64 276 741890
don@rotoruanz.com