Netherlands Society Rotorua (Inc)

The Netherlands Society Rotorua Inc is a charitable, community-focused organisation established to benefit its members and the wider Bay of Plenty community.

We provide a welcoming place for Dutch migrants, their families, and anyone with an interest in Dutch culture. Our aim is to keep Dutch traditions alive while fostering strong cultural ties between the Netherlands and New Zealand.

Guided by the customs, values, and culture of our Society, we encourage connection, inclusion, and a sense of gezelligheid — the Dutch tradition of warmth and togetherness.

About the Netherlands Society Rotorua Inc.

The Netherlands Society Rotorua Inc. is a vibrant cultural hub dedicated to preserving Dutch heritage, language, and traditions within the Rotorua region. For decades, the society has served as a "home away from home" for Dutch immigrants and their descendants, fostering a sense of belonging through shared culture and community.

Our History

The society was originally established in 1965. It was born from the needs of the early wave of Dutch migrants who arrived in New Zealand in the 1950s and 60s. Seeking connection in a new land, these pioneers formed the club to celebrate Dutch holidays, share familiar foods, and support one another in their new lives.

In May 2015, the society proudly celebrated its 50th Anniversary, a testament to the enduring spirit and hard work of its members. While the club originally met in various locations, our current home at Neil Hunt Park was officially opened in 1986, providing a permanent space for our community to gather.

What We Do

Today, the society remains a cornerstone of the Rotorua community. We are well-known for our:

• Bi-Monthly Market Days: A local favorite where visitors can stock up on authentic Dutch treats, from Oliebollen, croquettes and paling (eel) to speculaas and drop.

• Cultural Celebrations: Traditional events like Sinterklaas bring the magic of Dutch folklore to new generations of Kiwi-Dutch children.

• Social Gatherings: Regular coffee mornings, bingo, and luncheons that keep our "older generation" connected while welcoming new members of all backgrounds.

Whether you are of Dutch descent or simply have a love for the culture (and the licorice!), we welcome you to join us at the clubrooms.