'Hugely significant': All Stars a boon for Rotorua economy

This week's hosting of the NRL Harvey Norman All Stars is set to provide a timely boost for the local economy in Rotorua, which is still reeling from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Between the city's stunning geothermal activity and natural wonders, to the range of adventure sports on offer, Rotorua's economy relies heavily on tourists, which were scarce during the border restrictions in place for large parts of the last two years in New Zealand. 

Data from RotoruaNZ shows electronic card expenditure by visitors in Rotorua for the year ending April, 2022 was $289 million, with $18 million of that coming from international cardholders.

That number was down 85 percent on the $124 million international cardholders spent in Rotorua in the year prior to the COVID pandemic.

“Rotorua has taken a huge hit as a result of border closures and lockdowns. Any event that attracts national and international visitors is welcome support for our local businesses," Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell told NRL.com. 

“We can’t wait to welcome people to Rotorua for this historic event and hope that while they’re here, visitors take the opportunity to explore the many great experiences Rotorua has to offer.

Hosting the games is hugely significant to Rotorua. It’s an opportunity for us to showcase who we are on an international stage.

Tania Tapsell Mayor of Rotorua

"We represent Māori culture in a way that is truly authentic and are well known for the manaakitanga (hospitality, kindness) we show our visitors."

Among the off-field activity taking place in the lead up to Saturday's games, players and staff will take part in a number of community events. 

New Zealand's Minister for Economic Development, Stuart Nash, said the All Stars presents a chance to celebrate both rugby league and culture. 

“New Zealand has a proud record of hosting world-class international sport events and rugby league is big part of our history," Nash told NRL.com. 

"The NRL All Stars event is yet another opportunity, celebrating indigenous culture, that will be great for the local economy and will highlight Rotorua and its offerings."

Previously Rotorua hosted an NRL trial match between the Warriors and Wests Tigers in 2020, while prior to that the Kiwis played Papua New Guinea in the city back in 2010 during the Four Nations tournament.