OK, I know this is a pretty obvious choice (especially to Rotorua locals) but the Polynesian Spa is a MUST for a romantic date. When you see brochures of Rotorua and there is a photo of an extremely happy, relaxed couple soaking in a private natural hot pool over-looking a picturesque lake… well it’s probably Polynesian Spa… yes, this mystical place does exist!

Well, yes, it’s just like the title suggests! …a panoramic homestay. Why not treat your special someone to a unique rural getaway on the shore of Lake Rotorua. Even if it’s just one night or a week, you could be holding hands and wandering through sheep filled paddocks and along trout filled streams in no time!

The only thing better than a romantic dinner by candle light is one that is perched upon Rotorua’s highest peak over-looking the city lights and multitude of lakes. Not only is the view great, but so is the food

This is one of Rotorua’s most quirky and historical hotels. It’s situated at the gates to the Government Gardens (which by the way is the perfect place for a romantic walk). If you already live in Rotorua and don’t want to stay, the hotel is actually more popular for it’s "dinner and show". They have various performers visit their landmark ballroom and have a regular cabaret/dinner night. The perfect night out.

We all know renovating can be a cow of a job at the best of times, so it’s understandable that when the you-know-what hits the fan you just want to call an expert in to do the job. Well make sure your first call is The Renovation Company. They specialise in renovations and alterations, project management, leaking building solutions, project completion, remedial work and much more.

It’s hard to know where to start when attacking the daunting task of renovating your home; well the bathroom is as good a place as any to begin (plus it’s a smaller room, so a little less daunting!). Bathroom Envy are part of BW Builders, who have a great reputation and specialise in bathrooms, or if you need even more done you can get BW Builders to do the entire job. Their work is always to the highest standard and they’re a dream to deal with.

People often don’t give much though to ceilings. They’re just this white, empty space above us. Why not talk to Alpha Interiors, who specialise in unique ceilings, work their magic and bring your room to life.

Quality craftsmanship is paramount at Autocrat and it shows in their beautiful work. They treat every home like their own, and every piece like a work of art. If you need any wood working done in your home; from doors and windows to staircases or period work, these are the guys to call.

The roof is an often over-looked part of the house. It’s on the outside and it’s up high so we don’t often notice it. But a good roof can add so much value to a home, plus it can prevent future weather damage. Roofman know how important roofs are and are one of the most experienced companies in Tauranga offering manufacturing and installation of roofing, cladding and rainwater systems. They’re your one-stop roof shop.

Hands-down Rotorua’s most wel–known and loved cafes… and for a reason. Fat Dog has a funky, chilled vibe and great food to match. Go for "The Fat Dog Works" …bacon, eggs, hash browns, sausage, tomato and chunky toast. Yum!

Cafe by day and restaurant by night, with it’s Moroccan-inspired decor of cushions, throws, curtains and wrought-iron lamps Abracadabra feels like you’re dining in a far away, exotic land. Abracadabra do absolutely everything; from hearty breakfasts such as Huevos Rancheros (tortillas, beans, cheese, fried eggs topped with guacamole and salsa) through to a cafe-style lunch menu with dishes such as the Moroccan Steak Sandwich and Chermoula Calamari Salad. So whatever time you drag yourself out of bed you’re sure to have delicious food awaiting.

I love Zippy’s. I’ve been coming her since I was a teenager in the 90s and I never get tired of the food. Firstly their servings are HUGE and secondly everything is so tasty. Such a great place to spend a lazy weekend morning/afternoon.

This place is a bit trendier than the other places mentioned, but not in a stuck-up kinda way, but more in that cute, slightly vintage, everything is handmade and organic kinda way. The food is great and the decor is calm and cute. The french toast is great as is the eggs benedict!

I love that Be Rude Not To Cafe has a really varied menu. If you’re a brunch addict like me, then you kinda want to try things that are out of the ordinary. The "bhujia" or Indian style scrambled eggs served with raita and toasted naan bread is a great one to try. I’ve also enjoyed the fruit crumble when my sweet tooth has been calling. Check it out now.

This place is everything that is good about the new trend in seasonal eateries. Cafes today tend to embracing fresh, organic, locally-sourced, seasonal produce and meat… and this is exactly what you’ll get at George Cafe. You can taste the freshness and the love in this food. Such a great place.

A little whole-in-the-wall kitchen on the Tauranga waterfront serving up amazing fish and chips and other delectible treats. Why not follow up the fish and chips with a doughnut! deep-fried upon deep-fried… it’s gotta be good for ya! Yum.

You just want to stay here forever because of the beautiful courtyard, and then this is just reinforced by the amazing food. There is a reason that this cafe has been named Tauranga’s best cafe. Pop in and see why.

Beautiful, sunny outdoor area and a great selection of counter food and an extensive menu. Last time I went I had the pork and bean corn fritter stack – and it was amazing! Such a great place.

The best thing about summer is eating our doors… and I’m not talking about that annoying BBQ that Dad makes you go to at his mate’s house. Why not head down to the Little Big Markets and peruse the food trucks and gourmet food stalls for a special meal, or snack at lots of little bits and pieces. This place is an awesome chance to meet local producers, sample local and international fare and do a spot of crafty shopping too.

Nothing says summer like Mexican. Grab your self a burrito packed with seasonal veggies and char-grilled meat and kick-back with a nice cool Corona; do cheap eats Mexican-style.

OK, so this place used to be a secret until Casey and Karena (of Masterchef fame) outted it as one of these favourite spots to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine. I’ve given it a good more than once and their Pad Thai is amongst the best I’ve tried (and I’ve been to Thailand!) also the second time I went the green curry was amazing too. Check it out before it gets too busy!

When it comes to food, coffee and location The Dry Dock ticks all the boxes. Excellent for a brunch or light lunch with smashing food both in the cabinet and from the menu. For a relaxed coffee break or a cool juice with sunny pavement tables the Dry Dock is the perfect place for an eat or a drink.

You can always trust a Top 10 holiday park, and this one is no exception. It is located close to central Rotorua and the grounds are immaculate and really well-equipped. Everything is clean, well-maintained and modern.

Within walking distance of everything you need, including Lake Rotorua's waterfront, this is a great place to set up base in Rotovegas. They have a great little spa complex and an indoor heated swimming pool, so this is a great place to go in winter too!

This place feels like camping grounds used to feel like... wholesome, natural; an undiscovered piece of paradise. It's not in the main centre, but on the Ngongotaha side of the lake, but that is why it's great. Take the kid fishing on the lake or in the Waiteti Stream, upon the shores of which this idyllic little place is set.

This place is a great cheap stay, but is not lacking in quality. It has the prerequisite thermal hot pools and access to a private beach on the lake. You can also fish in the local stream and then cook your trout on the camps hangi!

You can't go past a DOC campsite... for those of you who are not familiar with DOC, this is the Government Department of Conservation who offer unique locations to camp around NZ at super low prices (usually around $5, on an honesty donation box system). This one on the shore of Lake Tarawera is particularly special in the fact that there are thermal hot-spots on the beach, so you can dig your own little spa pools. Enjoy!