New Zealand Manuka Group

New Zealand Manuka Group has committed to developing the Trust's whenua of Ngati Waoku ki Rotohokahoka, beside Skyline Skyrides in Rotorua. Subject to the usual regulatory consents, the new tourism venture has an estimated project value of over $30 million dollars and is targeting over 180,000 local and international visitors per annum. The Joint Venture will create a unique manuka themed visitor experience, showcasing the critical importance of sustainably managing NZ's still rich biodiversity before its too late. International award winning architect, RTA Studio and multimedia design house, The Gibson Group have been engaged to bring a unique feel to the Rotohokahoka Manuka visitor experience. Phil Caskey, Chairman and Founder of New Zealand Manuka Group, explains that the Manuka Story experience will provide visitors with hands on and locally guided viewing of a working manuka plantation, beekeeping and honey operation while showcasing the historical importance of manuka in traditional Maori medicine. Its vision is to also reflect the unique cultural innovation when Maori and Pakeha values are engaged in a co-productive business environment. Over the decades the Trust has managed its strategically located land with patience, waiting for a like-minded organisation to appear and be willing to partner to not only provide a sustainable revenue for its beneficiaries and wider Arawa community, but also create a platform to tell Ngati Waoku/Te Arawa's story to the world. Chief Executive of New Zealand Manuka Group, Karl Gradon, says that "the partnership is one where all parties are fully aligned and excited by the opportunity to share the Story of Manuka to a truly global audience in Rotorua. Being the industry pioneer, with a history of innovation and value sharing with landowners, we can join with the Trust and tell a uniquely New Zealand story in a way that can't be matched by any other organisation. The location of this amazing whenua allows us to tap into the heart of the rapidly growing Rotorua health and wellness visitor hub, while creating employment for the wider community. Another key player in the venture's development is Crankworx Rotorua, comprising key investors Rotorua Lakes Council, Skyline Rotorua and Multi Day Adventures. Crankworx Rotorua chairman Dave Donaldson, who has led Rotorua Lakes Council's economic growth portfolio, says the event group has had a great working relationship with Ngati Waoku to deliver a world-class festival with excellent economic outcomes for the district: "I'm excited about the Rotohokahoka Manuka development from an economic perspective as well as how it proposes to make allowances for - and potentially enhance - our Crankworx event venue for the benefit of Rotorua." Mayor Steve Chadwick says the venture will add a unique new aspect to Rotorua's many and varied tourism offerings: "It will align with Rotorua's tourism aspirations as well as contributing to our future economic growth and seeding new investments and jobs."