Pomare is a residential suburb in the south-western part of Rotorua, covering approximately 1.37 square kilometres. The suburb’s statistical area includes the adjoining areas of Matipo Heights and Westbrook. Rotorua International Stadium sits on the eastern side of Pomare and is the area’s most prominent landmark. The suburb has a settled residential character, with housing stock primarily from the mid-20th century onwards, and is positioned in Rotorua’s southern residential belt between the city centre and the Whakarewarewa area.
Practical Information
| Location | South-western Rotorua, between the city centre and the Whakarewarewa/Redwoods area |
| Area | Approximately 1.37 km² (includes Matipo Heights and Westbrook) |
| Character | Established residential suburb; family-oriented; close to sports facilities |
| Key landmark | Rotorua International Stadium (eastern edge of the suburb) |
The Suburb
Pomare is a quiet residential suburb whose location gives residents practical access to both Rotorua’s city centre and the Whakarewarewa Forest, the lake district roads, and the attractions of the southern suburbs. Housing in the area is primarily established residential stock — a mix of homes built from the mid-1970s through to more recent construction in the Westbrook area.
The suburb’s position in Rotorua’s southern residential belt means it is well-placed for families who want a community setting within easy reach of Rotorua’s amenities. The proximity to the international stadium means that on event days, Pomare becomes a hub for game-goers using nearby streets and facilities.
Rotorua International Stadium
Rotorua International Stadium is on the eastern edge of Pomare and is one of the major sports venues in the Bay of Plenty region. The stadium hosts rugby union, rugby league, and other events at various levels. For residents of Pomare, the stadium is both an amenity — with event programming bringing activity to the area — and a practical consideration for parking and traffic on major event days.
Proximity to Whakarewarewa Forest
One of Pomare’s practical advantages is its proximity to Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods) — one of New Zealand’s premier mountain biking and walking forest networks, approximately 15 minutes from central Rotorua and accessible in a short drive from Pomare via the Tarawera Road or SH5 carparks. Residents of Pomare and the surrounding southern suburbs are well-positioned to make regular use of the forest’s 200km of trails.
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia — Pomare, Rotorua — geographic and demographic overview of the suburb.
Rotorua NZ — Official Visitor Guide — for attractions and amenities across the Rotorua area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pomare in Rotorua?
In the south-western part of Rotorua, between the city centre and the Whakarewarewa/Redwoods forest area. The statistical area includes Matipo Heights and Westbrook.
What is Rotorua International Stadium?
A major sports venue on the eastern edge of Pomare that hosts rugby union, rugby league, and other events. It is one of the significant sports facilities in the Bay of Plenty region.
Is Pomare close to Whakarewarewa Forest?
Yes — Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods) is easily accessible from Pomare in a short drive, making it convenient for residents who use the forest for walking, cycling or mountain biking.
What is the character of Pomare?
A settled residential suburb with a mix of established housing, primarily from the mid-20th century. It is quiet and family-oriented, with good access to Rotorua’s wider amenities.
Pomare is in the southern suburbs of Rotorua. See the Whakarewarewa Forest guide for the nearby walking and biking trails, and the Rotorua parks and reserves guide for outdoor options across the district.
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