Rotorua has a multicultural population of around 65,901 people. The district centres on the city of Rotorua and includes many rural and lakeside communities. Rotorua city is known internationally as the heartland of Maori culture.
Trends show:
- a gradually ageing population as the baby boomer generation nears retirement
- an increasing number of Maori residents
- an increasing number of residents in other non-European ethnic groups
- approximately 36% of the resident population identifies as Maori, 4% as Pacific peoples and 4% as Asian.*
Survey results show that community spirit is strong. The district has an active social and sporting scene. Many residents commit time and effort to community work like fundraising, attending meetings, training and coaching.