Te Puia – a visitor attraction which provides access to Rotorua’s famous geysers and geothermal valley – has become the first visitor attraction in New Zealand to have staff certified in rural skills, with its Environment Team members presented with the National Certificate in General Skills Agriculture Primary Sector.

The certificate – which comes from New Zealand’s largest industry training organisation, Primary ITO – was awarded following a 12-month on- and off-site training scheme.

Te Puia’s Environment Team are responsible for all maintenance across the 70 hectare geothermal site, including horticulture, hygiene and the conservation of native flora and fauna. Part of their role has involved the removal of undergrowth to expose natural geothermal features, with an ongoing focus on ensuring pathways are clear and safe for visitors.

“We work around erupting geysers, hot springs, boiling mud and an ever-changing landscape. The training we have undertaken not only safeguards staff, but also manuhiri (visitors) and Te Puia as an organisation,” said Te Puia environment supervisor, Mariana Te Rangi.

The new certification is a significant development for Te Puia and New Zealand, with the organisation now leading the way in tourism and attractions industry for agricultural safety.

Rotorua is currently looking to emulate Beppu, Japan – which recently celebrated its 90th year as a city and the 100th anniversary of its hot springs festival – as one of the world’s leading destinations for highly-developed geothermal attractions and hot springs, with the aim to generate significant tourism revenue through its wellness offerings.