The Rotorua Geothermal Field (RGF) is a unique example of a geothermal system that has been managed intensively to both obtain energy in a sustainable manner and to preserve the surface features and their intrinsic value. The field underwent an extensive bore closure programme in the 1980s. Exploitation today is characterised by a reduced number of shallow bores (140 consented bores and an additional 42 with down hole heat exchanges) with limits set on use by a management plan designed and monitored by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council. The RGF has a wide range of uses, values and differing significance to the Rotorua community, including cultural values, economic benefits, energy source and a tourism driver. A collection of research and monitoring activities are presented in this paper. We summarise the current management regime, surface feature trends and results of chemical research, repeated heat flow surveys at Whakarewarewa and representative temperature-contour maps of the geothermal resource. These data and results show that the composition of the primary deep fluids have changed little overtime, while marked physical changes have occurred at surface features; a mix of positive recovery signs, along with many complex exceptions to those trends are seen. The use of modern numerical modelling methodology, using bore temperature records, geology and chemical data allow for improved modelling of the system. (c) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.