The black swans and various species of ducks that make their home in
Lake Rotorua are, according to our bus driver, the best fed in the
world. A walk around the lakefront lets you watch the waterfowl move
from place to place, following those who bring bread and other
goodies.
The lone tree is a symbol of the Maori to honor the chiefs that have
passed on. In addition to this tree on Lake Rotorua, there is also
one located on a hill outside Auckland.
On the left is the entrance to the Government Gardens in Rotorua.
Rotorua is well-known for its mineral water with healing properties
and for many years, people have come to the town to benefit from the
town's resources. The old bath house is now a museum depicting the
history of the area and the Polynesian Spa is famous for its mineral
pools and bathing facilities. Also located in the Government Gardens
is the Orchid Garden. Every hour on the hour the water organ, one of
only two in the world, is played and streams of water moving in time
to the music make delightful entertainment. The orchid garden, in
addition to displaying orchids from around the world, also has a
beautiful display of tropical plants.
The
Princes Gate Hotel is a well-known hotel in Rotorua. Across the
street from the Government Gardens and new Rotorua Convention Center,
it has room ranging from apartments to those with shared baths. The
most prominent feature of the hotel is the main staircase, which is
very beautiful and is in demand by brides who want to have their
weddings at the hotel so they can descend it. The hotel provides many
extras for its guests including a restaurant, mini-bar in each room,
mineral pool, and spa.
Notice the cars parked across the street from the hotel. Since drivers in New Zealand (as well as Australia) drive on the left side of the road, the steering wheel and driving controls are on the right side of the car.
