17 Best Hotels in East Coast and the Volcanic Zone, New Zealand

Background Illustration for Hotels

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.

b&b @ number ten

$$ | 10 Coprosma Crescent, Taupo, 3330, New Zealand
The sunny en suite guest rooms at this B&B have panoramic views of Lake Taupo and French doors that let you take full advantage of the views. Linger over a full cooked or continental breakfast while getting sightseeing advice from John and Ann, the welcoming hosts.

Pros

  • <PRO>good location</PRO>
  • <PRO>not far from town</PRO>
  • <PRO>free Wi-Fi</PRO>

Cons

  • <CON>basic amenities</CON>
  • <CON>has a suburban feel</CON>
  • <CON>no cooking facilities</CON>
10 Coprosma Crescent, Taupo, 3330, New Zealand
07-378–6823
hotel Details
2 rooms
Rate Includes: Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Cascades Lakefront Motel

$$$ | 303 Lake Terr., Taupo, 3351, New Zealand

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.

Pros

  • On the lakeside with a safe beach
  • Heated pool
  • Great views

Cons

  • 3 km (2 miles) from town center
  • Units near road may get some traffic noise
  • Uninspiring decor
303 Lake Terr., Taupo, 3351, New Zealand
64-07-378–3774
hotel Details
24 units
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Chateau Tongariro

$$$$ | 99 State Hwy. 48, Tongariro National Park, 3951, New Zealand

Built in 1929, this French neo-Georgian-style property in Whakapapa hosts everyone from well-heeled movie types to people who tramp and ski by day, then switch their clothing to dress in heels or jacket and tie for the evening. Harking back to an older era, it's simply a lovely place to stay. Most of the handsome rooms have views of the surrounding national park, and the magnificent Mt. Ngaruhoe cone is outstanding at sunset or on a moonlit night. The chateau offers a range of eateries from the sophisticated Ruapehu Room to more casual places. Guided hikes on all the best-known routes in the park can be arranged.

Pros

  • Classy, restful place
  • Enormous lounge area has a welcoming open fire and billiard table
  • Superb views

Cons

  • Views are often obstructed by mist
  • Long way from the nearest town
  • May be seen as stuffy
99 State Hwy. 48, Tongariro National Park, 3951, New Zealand
64-07-892–3809
hotel Details
116 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Recommended Fodor's Video

Discovery Lodge

$$$ | State Hwy. 47, Whakapapa Village, 3948, New Zealand

The only tourist lodging in the park to give a panoramic view of three active volcanoes is this friendly complex, only minutes from the ski slopes. Most accommodations are in self-contained apartments and chalets. One-bedroom units sleep up to five people. There's also a pair of double rooms priced for backpackers, as well as powered campsites. The restaurant serves breakfast and dinner; packed lunches are available on request. On-site amenities include a fully licensed bar and a guest lounge with sundeck. The lodge also runs its own shuttle to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, arriving just before 6 am.

Pros

  • Handy to the village
  • Close to the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and their shuttle gets you there quite early
  • Good food

Cons

  • A long way from shops
  • Breakfast not included
  • Not a good range of shuttle times to the crossing
State Hwy. 47, Whakapapa Village, 3948, New Zealand
07-892–2744
hotel Details
22 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Harvest Lodge

$$$ | 23 Havelock Rd., Havelock North, 4130, New Zealand

Close to the center of Havelock North, this up-to-the-minute motel has spacious units with original artwork and comfortable king-size beds. All are outfitted with whirlpool baths, kitchenettes, and bifold windows that open wide onto the lovely courtyard.

Pros

  • Close to town
  • Handy to restaurants and bars
  • Spacious rooms

Cons

  • Near busy road
  • May be some traffic noise
  • Breakfast not included
23 Havelock Rd., Havelock North, 4130, New Zealand
64-06-877–9500
hotel Details
19 units
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Homestay 157

$$ | 157 Thompson Rd., Napier, New Zealand
You'll be made to feel very welcome at this luxurious yet comfortable home, which features a lovely en suite bedroom, a private guest lounge, and a covered veranda that provides spectacular views over the ocean to the Mahia Peninsula. Hosts Lesley and Peter will share their knowledge of the area's many attractions to ensure you have a memorable stay.

Pros

  • <PRO>genuine and welcoming hosts</PRO>
  • <PRO>free Wi-Fi</PRO>
  • <PRO>incredible views</PRO>

Cons

  • <CON>only one room so close quarters with the hosts</CON>
  • <CON>fair distance from town</CON>
  • <CON>can only book via phone</CON>
157 Thompson Rd., Napier, New Zealand
06-835–0117
hotel Details
Rate Includes: 1 suite, Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Huka Lodge

$$$$ | 77–105 Huka Falls Rd., Taupo, 3351, New Zealand Fodor's Choice

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. 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.

Pros

  • One of the world's best lodges with a knowing and established clientele
  • Excellent range of activities
  • Gorgeous setting

Cons

  • Perfection does not come cheap
  • Prices are per person per night
  • Fixed dinner times
77–105 Huka Falls Rd., Taupo, 3351, New Zealand
64-7-378–5791
hotel Details
25 suites
Rate Includes: All-Inclusive

Quick Facts

Linburn Farm Stay

$$ | 1279 Waimata Valley Rd., Gisborne, 4040, New Zealand

The 1920s home of Karyn and Mark Watson is situated on a working farm that breeds sheep and cattle. There is a large stand of native bush. Guests have the run of the house with its enormous wood-paneled lounge, books aplenty, and large-screen television. You can dine with the family or in private if you wish. Meals and picnic hampers are available and local visits can be arranged.

Pros

  • <PRO>great getaway for peace and quiet</PRO>
  • <PRO>picturesque countryside setting</PRO>
  • <PRO>homey decor</PRO>

Cons

  • <CON>20-minute drive to the city</CON>
  • <CON>location might seem a little isolated</CON>
  • <CON>no bar</CON>
1279 Waimata Valley Rd., Gisborne, 4040, New Zealand
06-867–0375
hotel Details
2 rooms
Rate Includes: Breakfast, No credit cards

Quick Facts

  • $$

Mangapapa Hotel

$$$$ | 466 Napier Rd., Havelock North, 4130, New Zealand

The 1885 grand residence of one of New Zealand's earliest entrepreneurs has been converted into a charming boutique hotel. The dozen guest suites are luxuriously furnished, and the manicured grounds include a grass tennis court, a swimming pool, and a day spa. Local products, including lamb, beef, or duck, feature on the upscale farm-cuisine menu, and the wine list includes superb Hawke's Bay wines.

Pros

  • Private and quiet
  • Understated luxury
  • Excellent café

Cons

  • Breakfast not included
  • Pricey
  • Grounds could use some maintenance in places
466 Napier Rd., Havelock North, 4130, New Zealand
64-06-878–3234
hotel Details
12 suites
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

McHardy Lodge

$$$$ | 11 Bracken St., Napier, 4110, New Zealand

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.

Pros

  • Grand mansion feel
  • Fabulous views
  • Heated pool and full-size billiard table

Cons

  • Can be hard to find on a dark night
  • Hard uphill walk from town center
  • Need to book evening meals ahead of time
11 Bracken St., Napier, 4110, New Zealand
64-06-835–0605
hotel Details
6 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

Ocean Beach

$$ | 7 Oneroa Rd., Gisborne, 4010, New Zealand

A surfer's paradise, this Mediterranean-looking motel complex is a five-minute drive north of Gisborne, close to Wainui Beach. The contemporary-style units are spacious, airy, and have a private courtyard. Perks like kitchen facilities and free Wi-Fi make them a practical choice too.

Pros

  • Ideal situation for beach-type getaway
  • Spacious rooms
  • Nice amenities

Cons

  • There may be traffic noise in the busy season
  • Need transport into town
  • Breakfast not included
7 Oneroa Rd., Gisborne, 4010, New Zealand
64-06-868–6186
hotel Details
15 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Portmans Motor Lodge

$$ | 401 Railway Rd., Hastings, 4122, New Zealand

Conveniently located near the center of Hastings, this motel has 20 modern units surrounding a spacious courtyard; 10 have whirlpool baths, and all are comfortably equipped. The outdoor swimming pool and warm, welcoming hosts are added bonuses.

Pros

  • Reasonably priced accommodations
  • Really handy to town
  • Lovely pool

Cons

  • Some parking is a little cramped
  • Pool isn't heated
  • Decor not very charming
401 Railway Rd., Hastings, 4122, New Zealand
64-06-878–8332
hotel Details
20 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Princes Gate Hotel

$$$ | 1057 Arawa St., Rotorua, 3010, New Zealand

This ornate timber hotel was built in 1897 on the Coromandel Peninsula; its large, wonderfully appointed guest rooms were transported here in 1920. The bathrooms have both tubs and showers. The restaurant has live shows Saturday and Sunday evenings, and there's a deck where you can pull up a chair and gaze across the street at the Government Gardens.

Pros

  • Elegant and sophisticated
  • Has an air of old-fashioned charm
  • Excellent afternoon tea

Cons

  • You'll feel you have to whisper in the lounge
  • If you want clinical and modern it's not for you
  • Some may find it twee
1057 Arawa St., Rotorua, 3010, New Zealand
64-07-348–1179
hotel Details
50 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Regal Palms 5 Star City Resort

$$$ | 350 Fenton St., Rotorua, 3010, New Zealand

The well-appointed studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suites at this resort, located 2 km (1 mile) from downtown Rotorua sit amid spacious grounds. You can happily lounge on the patio, take a dip in the outdoor pool, hit a few tennis balls, purify in the sauna, or while away the evening in front of the fire in the lounge bar.

Pros

  • Good recreational facilities
  • Roomy accommodations
  • Lovely day spa

Cons

  • You'll need to take the car to town
  • There may be some traffic noise
  • Breakfast not included
350 Fenton St., Rotorua, 3010, New Zealand
64-07-350–3232
hotel Details
44 suites
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Senator Motor Inn

$$ | 2 Childers Rd., Gisborne, 4010, New Zealand
Offering comfortable, modern accommodations with lovely views over the marina and inner harbor on one side and main-street shopping on the doorstep, this motel has an ideal location that ticks all the boxes. It's just a stone's throw from the wharf, a two-minute walk from town, and a five-minute drive from one of Gisborne's best surfing beaches. Both studios and suites are available, each with its own terrace.

Pros

  • Great views
  • Close to everything
  • Free Wi-Fi and off-street parking

Cons

  • May be full in high season
  • Proximity to street means it can be noisy
  • No food available on site (but within walking distance of cafes)
2 Childers Rd., Gisborne, 4010, New Zealand
64-06-868–8877
hotel Details
16 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Shoreline Motel

$$ | 377 Marine Parade, Napier, 4110, New Zealand

The rooms at this Marine Parade place are well-appointed and well-equipped; each comes with its own hot tub, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms facing the beach offer superb views to distant Cape Kidnappers.

Pros

  • Close to town
  • Many rooms have sea views
  • Free off-street parking

Cons

  • Often full in the holiday season
  • Two flights of outside stairs to top units
  • Main road can be noisy
377 Marine Parade, Napier, 4110, New Zealand
64-06-835–5222
hotel Details
38 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Solitaire Lodge

$$$$ | 16 Ronald Rd., Rotorua, 3076, New Zealand Fodor's Choice

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.

Pros

  • Quiet, secluded class in superb surroundings
  • Diverse collection of activities offered
  • High-end wine and food

Cons

  • Remote location comes at a high price
  • No golf course
  • No swimming pool
16 Ronald Rd., Rotorua, 3076, New Zealand
64-07-362–8208
hotel Details
11 suites
Rate Includes: All-Inclusive

Quick Facts