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Accommodations range from super-expensive lodges to multistory hotels and budget motels. Bed-and-breakfast establishments—whether in town centers or in the depths of the countryside where you can succumb to the silence, curl up and read a book, or cast a fly in a quiet stream—are another excellent option.
Rotorua has lodgings in all price ranges. If you're willing to stay out of the town center, you can find bargain rates virtually year-round. In both Rotorua and Taupo, many hotels and motels give significant discounts on their standard rates off-season, from June through September. For stays during the school holidays in December and January, book well in advance. Also note that peak season in Tongariro National Park and other ski areas is winter (June–September); summer visitors can usually find empty beds and good deals. Many places, even the fanciest lodges, don't have air-conditioning, as the weather doesn't call for it.
The renovation of an historic villa on the sea facing Marine Parade has created a luxurious yet low-key place to stay. You'll find the rooms meet any taste test with excellent furnishings that speak to comfort without being fussy. The hosts will make you a cooked or continental breakfast and can put you in touch with tours. It's proved to be very popular and it pays to book well in advance.
Set on 17 blissful acres, this riverfront lodge is one of the country's finest and has seen its fair share of prominent guests over the years, many are repeat customers. Large, lavish suites have a rustic-chic decor and open to a view across lawns to the river. Two separate, multisuite cottages are the height of luxury. Predinner drinks, a five-course dinner, and a hearty country breakfast are included in the rate. The lodge can arrange almost anything under the sun and, despite the level of sophistication, welcomes families traveling with children; the team will organize age-appropriate activities and even line up babysitters if parents want to spend some time alone. Although it is expensive, Huka Lodge offers a range of packages—so it's worth checking well ahead to see what's available. You might get four nights for the price of three.
The gardens at this historic mansion, high on Napier Hill, have panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the splendid Kaweka Ranges. Guest rooms have native timber floors, American king-size beds, and elaborate bathrooms. Large verandas open onto landscaped grounds, where you can relax by the heated swimming pool; there's also a lovely fireplace in the lounge. Dinners must be booked in advance.
Nestled in native bush on a private peninsula, the luxurious Solitaire Lodge commands extensive views over Lake Tarawera and the legendary mountain. Check out the volcanoes from the library-bar, or settle down in a shaded garden nook and sip a drink. If you're feeling active, the surroundings are perfect for hiking, boating, and fishing; use of lodge dinghies, kayaks, and fishing gear is included in the full-board rate. The rate also includes predinner drinks and canapés followed by a five-course evening meal, a full breakfast, a light lunch, and an extensive in-room minibar stocked with alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, snacks, and fruit.
This lodge offers the ultimate in a getaway with its location in a private forest of 2,500 acres with 35 miles of hiking trails a short drive from Rotorua. It was built using native timber from the property, which is also to home to deer, goats, turkeys, and water buffalo. There is also trout fishing and game hunting on the property but if you prefer less activity there is a spa and wild food on offer. The suites are beautifully appointed and all meals are included. If you want to wander farther helicopter transport or guides can be organized.
This lakeside hotel with its immaculate gardens, tennis court, and beach offers luxury accommodation with convenience. You could spend the whole day here but it's also an excellent base for making the most of the geothermal region. The rooms and suites are beautifully appointed with either lake or garden views. The restaurant offers gourmet modern New Zealand cuisine and a picnic basket is available if you take a sightseeing drive.
This lakeside motel offers comfortable rooms with great views. Two-story units, which sleep up to six, have a lounge, bedroom, kitchen, and dining room on the ground floor and glass doors leading to a large patio, plus a second bedroom and bathroom on the upper floor; studios have one bedroom.
