Named after the area’s iconic lake, Rotorua draws heaps of travelers each year – and it’s not hard to see why!
A playground for fans of the great outdoors, this New Zealand hotspot is awash with majestic sights, bubbling mud pools, forests, hiking trails, and lakes galore. It’s also home to numerous cultural sites, including a Maori Village.
For when you’d like to soak up some city vibes, plan a romantic lakeside escapade, or simply want a break from your daily routine, Rotorua has plenty of different kinds of places to stay.
You can always opt for a boring hotel room of course, but if you’d like to add some panache to your vacation, consider a lodge instead! They are perfect for larger groups, couples, and solo travelers.
Here is a list of the best lodges in Rotorua that are comfortable, relaxed and beautiful! Check them out!
The Coachhouse
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Private kitchenette and Hot Tub
- > River Views
Lakes Lodge Okataina
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Balcony with lake and mountain views
- > Hiking opportunities nearby
5 Star Solitaire Suite
- > $$$$
- > 4 Guests
- > On-site restaurant
- > Private helipad
Staying in a Lodge in Rotorua
Known for its beautiful lakes, there’s no better way to enjoy Rotorua than from a cozy lakeside lodge.
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While hotels and motels in Rotorua are more centrally located, lodges in Rotorua are most often sitting beside stunning lakes and waterways. You won’t need to sacrifice comfort to stay in a lodge. Many, if not all, of them feature modern amenities like electricity, running hot water, and homey comforts. Think of it as a cross between staying in a B&B and a cabin!
More importantly, lodges are normally locally owned, giving you the chance to support local businesses during your stay in New Zealand. These lodges are also ideal for travelers who want to uncover hidden gems that tend to lie off the beaten track.
If you want to compare locations and prices, I can recommend platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com where you can refine your search options according to your preferred price range and browse through maps.
What to Look for in a Lodge
There are two types of lodges in Rotorua. Self-contained ones are like independent cabins or houses where you have access to the entire property. The other kind are resort-style lodges. At these spots you can rent out rooms or cottages within a larger property. They tend to have shared facilities like a communal pool or kitchen.
Depending on your budget, it’s also possible to find a lodge that provides breakfast or has on-site restaurants. Deluxe properties will have lots of added perks like airport transfers, tours and more!
The 10 Top Lodges in Rotorua
From kayaking across the lake to biking through picturesque mountain trails, Rotorua is absolutely packed with adventures! For a cute and comfortable place to stay in Rotorua, check out these lodges!
Overall Best Value Lodge in Rotorua – Lemon Tree Lodge
- $$
- 4 Guests
- Spa and swimming pool
- Easy access to Waipa Mountain
If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, this 2-bedroom space is located in the quiet neighborhood of Springfield with loads of amazing things to do close by.
While the lodge has 2 queen-sized beds to accommodate four guests, 2 extra people can squeeze in on the sofa bed in the living room. You can enjoy all the comforts of home during your stay, including a well-equipped kitchen and cozy living area.
Parents traveling with small children can request a Pack ‘n Play travel crib.
Fans of the great outdoors will appreciate the proximity to the Waipa Mountain biking tracks. Head out to explore nature, or stay in the bustling town with lots of amenities.
Best Budget Lodge in Rotorua – Lakes Lodge Okataina
- $
- 2 Guests
- Balcony with lake and mountain views
- Hiking opportunities nearby
Looking for lodges in Rotorua on a budget? Lakes Lodge Okataina is an idyllic, and affordable spot.
Despite its low price tag, it is an incredible spot to stay right on the lakeside. The collection of rooms are super comfortable and idyllic with lake or garden views. With loads of hiking spots nearby and fishing around the area, this is a great place for those wanting to enjoy the natural setting.
When you feel like exploring, check out Buried Village, Mount Ngongotaha Reserve, and Matariki Cultural Centre. At the end of a busy day, treat yourself to dinner at the nearby restaurants like Mokoia, and enjoy a cozy snooze on the extra-large double bed.
Best Lodge in Rotorua for Couples – The Coachhouse
- $$
- 2 Guests
- Private kitchenette and hot tub
- Outstanding river views
Couples, this one’s for you!
Not only is this charming Rotorua lodge ideal for romantic getaways, it also lies close to some of the most popular attractions in town.
Gorgeous sights like Paradise Valley Springs, Rosewood Park, and the Matariki Cultural Centre are just a few kilometers away – so don’t forget to pack your best walking boots!
After a day of sightseeing, return to the lodge to wind down in the bubbling hot tub. You’ll find numerous restaurants nearby but if you want to spend a quiet evening in, the lodge’s King Room has a kitchenette where you can whip up a quick and easy meal.
Best Lodge in Rotorua for a Group of Friends – Lakefront Lodge for 13
- $$
- 13 Guests
- Lakeside hot tub and BBQ
- Kayaks
Whether your idea of fun is to soak in a hot tub or swim in a lake, this lakefront lodge in Rotorua is a perfect spot for all!
Great for groups, the property has an amazing 6 bedrooms to sleep up to 13 guests. There’s plenty to do onsite, with a lakeside hot tub, BBQ facilities, and even kayaks to paddle out on the water.
Nearby, you can book 4WD and Quad Bike Adventures, tour a Mitai Maori Village and Agrodome, or check out Skyline Skyrides.
Back at the lodge, whip up a meal in the kitchen or fire up the BBQ grill for an al fresco feast.
Another Great Lodge for Groups of Friends – Awa Homestead Lodge
- $$
- 16 Guests
- Fireplace and kitchen
- Air hockey and pool table
You can enjoy a super memorable vacation with friends at Awa Homestead Lodge!
It has a fully equipped kitchen, 7 bedrooms and some amazing amenities to keep you entertained – pool table, air hockey and 50″ TV.
Some of the bedrooms have an extra sofa-bed to sleep extra guests if you exceed the beds.
During your time at the lodge you’ll be close to lots of different activities, including mini golf and scenic lakeside trails. After exploring the peaceful surroundings, soothe your muscles in the hot tub, gather around the pool table, curl up by the fireplace, or savor a delicious homemade meal at the dining table.
Over-the-Top Luxury Lodge in Rotorua – 5 Star Solitaire Suite
- $$$$
- 4 Guests
- On-site restaurant
- Helipad
Staying in a lodge in Rotorua doesn’t mean you need to miss out on luxury. Solitaire Lodge is a stunningly luxe and beautiful spot overlooking incredible lake views.
Nestled on the banks of Lake Tarawera, the lodge has a helipad perfect for enjoying helicopter tours and can also arrange lake cruises for exploring on the water. The property lies close to numerous attractions, including The Buried Village and Whakarewarewa Forest.
After an exciting day of adventures, retire to the luxurious Solitaire Suite fitted with a balcony, minibar, and 2 bedrooms for 4 guests. You won’t need to head far for a tasty meal thanks to the onsite restaurant.
Best Lodge for Families Visiting Rotorua – Central Paradise Lodge II
- $$
- 9 Guests
- Fenced pool and hot tub
- Highchair and baby cot
Families visiting Rotorua are gonna want space, amenities and amazing views, and that’s exactly what this lodge has!
The spot is ideal for families with kids with an included highchair and baby cot, as well as a fence around the pool to keep the kids from running wild without supervision. The parents can lounge back in the hot tub when the kids are occupied with a movie in the living room.
There is a full kitchen for preparing tasty snacks and meals, and a dining space where you can gather together.
With 4 bedrooms for 9 guests, it is a great setting for large families!
Amazing Luxury Lodge in Rotorua – Deluxe Lodge Near Lake Rotoehu
- $$$
- 8 Guests
- Fireplace and hot tub
- Soothing lakefront setting
Travelers who don’t mind splurging a little should check out this lakefront dream!
Set in an incredible location, away from the city noises, the deluxe property sleeps 8 people in 4 bedrooms.
There are various activities right on-site, including bushwalking, boating, kayaking, and swimming in the lake! If that’s not enough, you can try out the nearby attractions like the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.
After rustling up a meal in the kitchen, gather on the furnished deck to enjoy your food al fresco while gazing out at the lake.
Best Lodge for a Weekend in Rotorua – Mountain Bikers Heaven
- $$
- 2 Guests
- Private patio
- 1km from mountain cycle tracks
This cozy and comfortable guest house in Rotorua is an ideal weekend getaway. Totally private, with a garden area, sunny patio and home comforts, you will have everything you need to relax and enjoy a weekend away.
Ideally located close to the top mountain bike tracks in the area, grab your cycling buddy and head for a weekend of flying through the mountains on your bike.
There is a bedroom and a sofa bed, kitchen, bathroom and private green garden.
Most Traditional Lodge in Rotorua – Paradise Valley Lodge
- $$
- 10 Guests
- Kitchen and laundry facilities
- Shared spa pool
Let’s finish up the list of lodges in Rotorua with a real gem – Paradise Valley Lodge.
With a charming, wood-paneled interior, exposed ceiling beams, BBQ facilities, and a well-outfitted kitchen, the lodge has direct access to the Ngongotaha stream. 10 people can share the 3 bedrooms thanks to the handy bunk beds. There’s even a sofa bed in the living room to squeeze in 2 more guests if you’re having extra friends over!
After hitting up the nearest points of interest like the Velocity Valley Adrenaline Park and Te Puia, you can take a dip in the shared spa pool to cool off.
Don’t Forget Your Rotorua Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts
Rotorua is an eclectic spot that has the best of both worlds – whether you’d like to party it up in the vibrant city center or immerse yourself in the majestic outdoors, the city has it all!
Booking a lodge in Rotorua is a great way to enjoy a touch of traditional list with cozy home comforts and all the amenities you need to feel at home.
Before you fly out to New Zealand, grab yourself a full coverage, extensive insurance that can cover any little mishaps or accidents. You can never be too careful!
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