Purpose built and launched in 1986, the Lakeland Queen has only ever sailed on Lake Rotorua and is now a well-loved icon of Rotorua. She is powered by a 240 hp Cummins diesel engine driving the 8 bladed stern paddle through a hydraulic system.

Built locally, the Lakeland Queen is modelled on the Mississippi river boats, which are shallow draft, stern driven paddle steamers designed for shallow rivers, making the boat ideal for Lake Rotorua with its shallow lakebed.

During the re-fit in 2006, the boat was lengthened by 10 metres and the interior was totally refurbished including the installation of a new kitchen, new bar facilities, extra toilets and a new dance floor.  With her two decks, the Lakeland Queen can carry up to 300 passengers.

Rotorua's "Lady of the Lake" is back where she belongs - cruising the waters of Lake Rotorua.