On the shores of Lake Tarawera in the breathtaking Central Plateau.
Just 30 minutes drive from the adventure hotspot of Rotorua, Solitaire Lodge is one of the country’s premier luxury lodges, the lodge boasts breathtaking views over the lake from almost every window. Surrounded by natural bush and beautiful volcanic landscapes the lake is easily accessible from Solitaire’s own private gardens and jetty.
With just 9 luxurious suites, the lodge offers guests a truly relaxing and intimate experience. Each of the 6 Executive Suites features comfortable lounge chairs, enusite bathrooms with freestanding baths, complimentary mini-bar and large picture windows with spectacular views across the lake or Mount Tarawera. With a split-level design, the Tarawera Suite offers guests a little more space, featuring a relaxing sitting and dining area with uninterrupted views. There are also two separate 1 or 2-bedroom suites ideal for either families or small groups travelling together.
The fine dining restaurant serves creative, ever-changing menus that reflect today’s contemporary food palate. Chefs are always up to the challenge to serve exciting dishes with a focus on New Zealand using seasonal produce. Guests can choose where to enjoy their five-course dinner, either in the lodge’s dining room with fellow guests or in the seclusion of their own suite. Each evening pre-dinner drinks and canapés are offered, showcasing some of the best wines found within the region. Breakfast is served from 7:30am in the restaurant whilst lunch can be enjoyed out on the deck overlooking the lake. A picnic lunch can also be organised on request.
Surrounded by beautiful lakes and natural bush there is a wealth of activities on offer at Solitaire Lodge. Discover the secluded bays of Lake Tarawera or take a picnic lunch on a hike to the 200-foot high Tarawera Falls. A popular pre-breakfast activity is a visit to the Tarawera Thermal Springs. Accessed by a 15-minute private high-speed launch, soak in the thermal waters that rise gently through the lake bed – guests can further explore the lake by kayaks or motorised dingy. Helicopter flights over the scenic landscape are also possible; including a scenic flight to the summit of Mount Tarawera. A guided 4WD excursion reaching the summit on foot offers a different perspective of the landscape. Bicycles are also available for use, including a 5-hour leisurely ride through the forest exploring the different thermal springs.
Further afield, nearby Rotorua offers even more experiences with fascinating Maori cultural activities, geothermal vents, hot pools and health spas to be explored.
Facilities
- Just 9 intimate lakeside suites
- Dining room
- Wi-Fi access
- Private gardens
- Private jetty
- In-house spa services
- Kayaks and motorised dinghies
Activities
- Kayaking and motorised dingy exploration
- Tarawera Thermal Spring
- Helicopter to Mount Tarawera and Orakei Korako
- Tarawera Falls Walk
- Thermals by bike
- Fishing
- Cycling
- Volcanic 4WD Adventure
- Picnics in secluded bays
*Some at extra cost
Highlights
- A peaceful luxury lodge set beside Lake Tarawera
- Just 9 beautiful lakeview suites
- Superb range of onsite activities
- Gourmet cuisine making use of fresh local ingredients
- Private in-suite dining
- Unspoilt bush, hidden waterfalls and thermal springs
- Picnics in secluded bays
- Just 20 minutes from Rotorua
- Geothermal wonderland of the Volcanic Central Plateau
Getting there
Solitaire Lodge is just 30 minutes drive from the small town of Rotorua in New Zealand’s Central Volcanic Plateau. The town is just under 3 hours drive form Auckland or 45 minutes by plane.
Accommodation in the North Island
Hotel DeBrett
One of Auckland’s oldest hotels, Hotel DeBrett is nestled within the old-world charm of the city’s High Street and just minutes from the bustle of Britomart and the waterfront.
Solitaire Lodge
Just 30 minutes drive from the adventure hotspot of Rotorua, Solitaire Lodge is situated on the shores of Lake Tarawera in the country’s breathtaking Central Plateau.
Helena Bay
Situated in the northeast corner of the country’s North Island, Helena Bay is an intimate retreat set right on the beachfront with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
Sitting atop the rolling hills and rugged cliffs of Cape Kidnappers, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers looks out over the wide expanse of Hawke’s Bay.
The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs
At the top of New Zealand’s North Island, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is situated on unspoilt coastline overlooking the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean.
New Zealand Itineraries
Lakes & Mountains of the South Island
Christchurch - Mt Cook - QueenstownExplore some the South Island's most inspiring landscapes staying at a range of beautiful lodges
New Zealand’s North Island
North IslandExplore New Zealand in style staying at two of the country’s most luxurious lodges
Luxury North Island
Cape Kidnappers - Kauri CliffsWith breathtaking mountain scenery, shimmering lakes, picturesque coastline and idyllic white-sand beaches, New Zealand is regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.
Luxury Lodges of the North and South
Cape Kidnappers - Kauri Cliffs - QueenstownExperience the very best New Zealand has to offer staying at three superb luxury lodges in three distinct regions across the north and south islands.
