Thinking about moving to Rotorua? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Rotorua.
Located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Rotorua is a city that is known for its geothermal activity, Maori culture, and outdoor adventures. It’s a place where you can experience the raw beauty of nature, immerse yourself in a rich cultural heritage, and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. But like any place, living in Rotorua has its pros and cons. In this article, we will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of calling Rotorua home.
Pros of Living in Rotorua
One of the biggest advantages of living in Rotorua is the access to stunning natural beauty. The city is surrounded by 18 sparkling lakes, lush forests, and geothermal wonders. For nature lovers, it’s a paradise. You can spend your weekends hiking in the Whakarewarewa Forest, kayaking on Lake Rotorua, or relaxing in the natural hot springs at Kuirau Park.
Another pro of living in Rotorua is the rich Maori culture. The city is a hub for Maori culture and history, with many opportunities to learn about and experience this indigenous culture. You can visit the Te Puia cultural centre, where you can see traditional Maori arts and crafts, watch cultural performances, and learn about Maori legends and traditions. It’s a unique cultural experience that you won’t find in many other places.
Rotorua also offers a relaxed lifestyle. The pace of life is slower compared to bigger cities like Auckland or Wellington, which can be a welcome change for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The city has a friendly, community-oriented vibe, with plenty of local events and festivals to enjoy. Volunteering opportunities abound, with organizations like the Rotorua Community Hospice and the Rotorua SPCA always looking for help.
Finally, Rotorua is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is known as the adventure capital of the North Island, with activities ranging from mountain biking and white-water rafting to ziplining and bungee jumping. The Rotorua Canopy Tours, for example, offer a thrilling zipline adventure through the native forest, while the Rotorua Rafting company provides exhilarating white-water rafting experiences on the Kaituna River.
Cons of Living in Rotorua, New Zealand
While Rotorua has many advantages, it also has its share of disadvantages. One of the main cons is the geothermal activity. While it’s a major tourist attraction and provides a unique landscape, it also means that the city often smells of sulphur. This “rotten egg” smell can be off-putting for some people, especially when it’s strong.
Another downside of living in Rotorua is the limited job opportunities. The city’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which means that many of the jobs are in the hospitality and service industries. If you’re looking for a career in other sectors, such as IT or finance, you may find the opportunities limited. This can also mean that the salaries are lower compared to bigger cities.
The cost of living in Rotorua can also be a con. While it’s generally cheaper than living in Auckland or Wellington, the cost of housing has been rising in recent years. This is partly due to the influx of tourists and people moving to the city for its lifestyle and natural beauty. As a result, finding affordable housing can be a challenge, especially for first-time home buyers.
Lastly, while Rotorua offers a relaxed lifestyle, it can also be a bit too quiet for some people. The city doesn’t have the same level of nightlife or cultural events as bigger cities. If you’re someone who enjoys a vibrant nightlife or a wide variety of restaurants and shops, you might find Rotorua a bit lacking.
In conclusion, Rotorua is a city of contrasts. It offers stunning natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage, and a relaxed lifestyle, but it also has its challenges, such as the sulphur smell, limited job opportunities, rising cost of living, and a quieter lifestyle. Ultimately, whether Rotorua is the right place for you will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
