Places to propose in Rotorua this Valentine’s Day

ROTORUA, Thursday 5th February 2015: If you’ve found the perfect person to marry, then we’ve found you the perfect place to propose.

Rotorua is famed for its cultural and adrenalin-fuelled tourist attractions, but it also offers some of New Zealand’s most romantic spots to pop the question this Valentine’s Day.

Destination Rotorua (DR) general manager Oscar Nathan says getting engaged is one of life’s most memorable experiences so it pays to put some thought and effort into choosing the right setting.

“Rotorua offers some of the most stunning – and private – locations you’ll find anywhere in the world. You can’t go wrong planning to propose to your loved one in any of these amazing places.”

So if you want to get down on bended knee, here are five top romantic spots to choose from:

Island romance - propose on the sacred shores of Mokoia Island in Lake Rotorua. One of New Zealand’s most famous love stories unfolded here when the beautiful Maori maiden, Hinemoa, swam to meet her lover, Tutanekai, who was playing a flute on the water’s edge. No need to swim that far now – simply kayak, paddleboard or take a boat. To go to Mokoia Island you need to be taken by a guide from Wai Ora Experiences.

Emotions will be running high so cool off - and heat up – at Lake Tarawera’s Hot Water Beach. Here you can swim in the cool water then relax in the natural rock pools where thermal springs gently rise through the lake bed. SUP, kayak, water taxi, boat or take a trip on the world’s only flying hovercraft – the Hoverwing, out to where hot water mixes with cool. Picture yourself and your partner relaxing in this pristine lake with a glass of bubbles in hand as the sun goes down.

Picnic amongst giants – take a mountain bike ride or walk through the magnificent stands of Californian Coast Redwoods and then choose an idyllic picnic spot in the Redwood Forest.

Winner of the World’s Travel Awards New Zealand’s top Luxury Award in 2012 – and frequently rated in Conde Nast – Treetops Lodge and Estate on the outskirts of Rotorua is a breath-taking place to stay. Nestled in 2500 acres of 800-year-old forest, this luxurious sanctuary is a guaranteed way to pamper and impress your loved one. You can even select your own organic vegetables for your personal chef to prepare for your romantic evening meal.
Sky high – enjoy impressive 180° panoramic views across Lake Rotorua when you take a ride on the Skyline Gondola. This is a peaceful and picturesque place to propose, and you can toast your future happiness at the Volcanic Hills Winery tasting room when you reach the top.
“Romance and Rotorua are a match made in heaven,” Nathan says. “It’s also an easy 2.5hr drive from Auckland or a short flight from other main centres. You can propose on the water, in the air or tucked away among the native bush,” he says.

“Our luxury lodges, our spas and our scenery, are also among the best you’ll find in New Zealand, so bring your lover and create some special memories together this Valentine’s Day.”

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