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Hotels Overview

Some of New Zealand's best lodges are here in the central North Island -- including the most famous, Huka Lodge, which racks up Hollywood celebs and royalty on its guest list. Lodges are ideal if you're keen on fishing, hunting, or other outdoor activities. The best places combine a relaxed country-house atmosphere (perhaps mixing antique furniture and contemporary design), excellent dining, and high-quality, unobtrusive service. If your budget allows, even one night at one of these lodges will be an experience to remember.

Rotorua, meanwhile, has a good cross-section of lodgings in all price ranges, including a generous number of motels. 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 in the off season, from June through September. The exceptions are the school holidays in December and January for which you should 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.