As New Zealand's premier visitor destination, it is imperative Rotorua shines as a beacon of top quality service and hospitality.

The issue of Maori representation has arisen again with a proposal for a new board to replace the Te Arawa Standing Committee, giving the iwi a greater voice on the council.

Tomorrow morning a seething mass of brightly coloured T-shirts, Lycra and sweaty bodies will inch its way around Lake Rotorua in the 50th running of our famous marathon.