Rotorua is hoping to boost its reputation as a top tourism destination - despite some media blowback.

TRENZ, New Zealand’s largest international tourism event, just wrapped up - bringing over 1200 travel buyers from 26 countries into the city.

Rotorua mayor Tania Tapsell disagrees with the claims that the city is 'dead' and says the city is 'smashing it' in regards to tourism.

"We were pretty surprised when we saw this very negative media article. Are we surprised... no. Will we fight back? Yes."

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New Zealand Rugby has posted a loss of $19.5 million for 2024, despite also bringing in record income.

The result was announced during today's AGM in Wellington - and is New Zealand Rugby's third consecutive deficit following a $8.9 million loss in 2023 and a $47 million loss in 2022.

The national body recorded income of $285 million, in what it describes as being a 'near break-even result', highlighted by growth in commercial revenue.

NZ Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson says there's been significant investment in all levels of the game.

"The investment has gone into record levels of investment into the women and girls' game, to the work we're doing in content and digital strategy and game development - we've never had higher levels of investment in the community game."

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Encouraging investment is a top priority in this month's upcoming Budget, according to new reports.

Prime Minister Chris Luxon says it'll come from a small number of measures, including more funding for a R&D tax credit.

BusinessNZ Advocacy Director Catherine Beard says New Zealand is currently one of the hardest OECD countries to invest in.

She says the new agency, Invest New Zealand, is one positive measure.

"Much more like a concierge sort of treatment for investors - and they will have the door flung open and the welcome mat put out."

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