Wednesday 20 May 2015

Rotorua’s World Spa to receive government funding

Prime Minister and Tourism Minister John Key announced at TRENZ this morning (20 May) that the government is investing in Rotorua’s World Spa project through its Tourism Growth Partnership fund.

The government is investing $350,000 to support the development of the new spa complex on Rotorua’s lakefront.

The $32 million contestable Tourism Growth Partnership fund aims to boost innovation and productivity in the tourism sector. For each project approved for investment, the government provides up to 50 per cent of the required funding.

Mr Key said tourism is a significant part of New Zealand’s economy and a major employer.

“The World Spa project aims to develop an international standard spa and wellness complex on Rotorua’s lakefront. The Rotorua Lakes Council has set a goal of 1.5 million commercial spa visits yearly, and the development of this new spa complex will certainly help with achieving that goal,” he said.

Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick said the World Spa announcement today is great news, fitting with the council’s vision for the district to reclaim its title of ‘Spa Capital of the South Pacific’.

“The funding will provide a boost towards progressing the work that has been underway for some time. It’s great to have central government endorsing our vision to be a world class spa destination.

“Rotorua has a hot springs heritage that dates back to its earliest Maori residents. We believe the potential for spa and spa-related developments is huge. It could be what takes our tourism industry to the next level and I look forward to further progress.”

[ENDS]

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