I checked out holiday houses web site and found a couple. Also found Lawndale Lodges which sounds perfect.

Thanks. RoxAnn

Thanks to all for your help - we've got our intinerary down and we're thrilled. Holidayhouses.co.nz is a terrific sight. We could have booked everything through them. One last request. Where to stay in Rotoroa. One night - close to town, inexpensive. We want to do a hangi - which venue is best. Tamaki Maori Village? Whakarewarewa? Hotel/hangi combo? Thank you.

Hi there Fallrats,

I was down in Rotorua recently with the family and we stayed at the Regal Palms. http://www.regalpalmsml.co.nz/

Good sized rooms which would suite a party that is your size.

Walking distance to a couple of good local restaurants. Also withing walking distance of Whakarewarewa village.

As far as the Hangi/cultural evening is concerned. Don't do a hotel evening. They are a bit tacky. Better off going with a formal provider like Whakarewarewa village or Tamaki tours.

Cheers

Steve

Thanks Steve. You have great info. With only a day in Rotorua we're thinking of doing the Waimangu Volcanic Valley or Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland then the hangi - probably Tamaki Maori Village, for dinner. We're driving from Turangi so have a short drive, then the night in Rot. and off to Auckland the next day. Any other suggestion for Rotorua?

We really enjoyed the Mai Ora hangi/concert at Te Whakarewarewa; from what I've read about Tamaki, it sounded a bit less touristy. It was a fun evening.

We chose to go to Waiotapu and enjoyed it. I think we walked all three tracks.

You can see pictures of both activities at http://community.webshots.com/user/ElendilPickle if you like.

Lee Ann

Hello, I am from New zealand and have been to most places. Firstly, there is a Motel in Rotorua called Kowhai Colonial Motel in Ranolph street it has a very large apartment upstairs which would probaly take all of you. It is very close to the main street, restaurants, all within walking distanse. I would recommend Tamiki Tours for your hangi and cultural experiance. I live in Ohope Beach which is about an hour from Rotorua and often send people to both these places. It depends where you are from as to weather you are missing the boat by not going to the South Island. It is quite different, but I think maybe once you have been you will make sure you come back, so then you could go South.

We're all set on our itinerary. A week in AU with family for Christmas - then to Christchurch, rent 2 cars and mosey over to Punakaiki and Nelson for the first 8 days. Then to Napier, Turangi and Rotoroa for the next 12. 3-4 nights in each spot. Fly fishing, tramping, wine tasting and relaxing are all on the agenda. Can't wait.

That sounds lovely! Be sure to post a trip report when you return.

Lee Ann

Sounds like a nice relaxing pace. Would love to hear how the holiday rentals work out.

Have a great trip.