The Thermal Wonderland of Rotorua

Welcome to New Zealand’s Thermal Wonderland of Rotorua!

This gorgeous pictorial map was issued to promote New Zealand’s iconic Rotorua District, known the world over for its geothermal activity. It began to be developed as a tourist area in the late 19th century and quickly gained an international reputation for geysers, hot springs, fishing, and health resorts.

The map uses vibrant imagery to highlight the numerous recreational activities, natural landmarks, and outdoor areas available to guests and tourists. Puns and humor are interjected throughout, though this results in the unfortunate relegation of the indigenous population to mere tokens of amusement. Despite the abstract nature of the composition, principal roads and respective mileages are shown, allowing for some measure of geographic accuracy throughout.

The piece was created around 1950 by Pictorial Publications Ltd. and distributed compliments of CalTex Oil (N.Z.) Ltd. Travel the Caltex way and leave your worries behind!