🏆 The 50 Best Accommodations in Rotorua [2021] 🏆

The Only Rotorua Accommodation List You’ll Ever Need

The geothermal hotspot and cultural hub of the North Island is a must-visit on any itinerary around New Zealand but the perfect stay isn’t complete without the perfect accommodation. This is where this ultimate list of the best accommodations in Rotorua comes in. Select from a specially curated list of luxury geothermal resorts to the flashiest backpackers; city-centre family-friendly motels to out-of-town couples’ retreats; and everything in between. Find the ideal stay, right here, in the 50 best accommodations in Rotorua.

1. Kings On Peace

Just off Rotorua’s notorious “Motel Mile”, i.e. Fenton Street and along the aptly named quiet residential “Peace Street”, Kings On Peace offers one of the most luxurious accommodations in Rotorua. Apartments feature spacious showers, pod coffee machines, dishwashers and more.

Check Kings On Peace out:

2. Silver Fern Rotorua – Accommodation & Spa

Silver Fern Rotorua ticks all the boxes: budget rooms, family rooms, even honeymoon suites and executive rooms for business travellers. What’s more, there are amenities such as spa pools/spa baths, electric blankets, baby equipment, room service breakfast and a day spa.

Check Silver Fern Rotorua out:

3. Regal Palms Resort

A real vacation experience in Rotorua, the Regal Palms Resort has a collection of self-contained suites suitable for couples and families. Each suite features a private hot pool, while guests also have access to a heated swimming pool, free WiFi, a children’s playground, a mini-golf course, a sauna and a tennis court!

Check Regal Palms Resort out:

4. Regent of Rotorua

A fabulous design-driven hotel, the Regent of Rotorua is a 4.5-star hotel conveniently located in central Rotorua. Choose from a range of rooms, which include access to an outdoor heated pool, a private mineral pool, a mini gym, lounge and wine bar, and restaurant. See more like this in the 10 Best Hotels in Rotorua.

Check Regent of Rotorua out:

5. Rock Solid Backpackers

Named for the view of the 17m climbing wall from the floor-to-ceiling windows, the Rock Solid Backpackers is not only a cool place to hang out but an affordable hostel. See more like this in the 10 Best Backpacker Hostels in Rotorua.

Check Rock Solid Backpackers out:

6. Sport of Kings Motel

Affordable and peaceful, the Sport of Kings Motel is well worth considering. The 4.5-star motel situated just off Rotorua’s main street has a geothermally-heated outdoor pool that has an attractive setting among native plantings. It also features in our 10 Best Motels in Rotorua.

Check Sport of Kings Motel out:

7. Jet Park Hotel Rotorua

What we love about the Jet Park Hotel Rotorua is how extremely catered to each traveller type the hotel is. There is a fantastic economy option for couples or solo travellers, while family rooms come with age-appropriate toys and pillows. See more recommendations like this in our 10 Best Family Accommodations in Rotorua.

Check Jet Park Hotel Rotorua out:

8. YHA Rotorua

The purpose-built backpackers certainly earns its places here on the best accommodations in Rotorua. YHA Rotorua has plenty of space to stretch your legs, whether it’s in the spacious kitchen and dining area or through the plant-filled courtyard to your room.

Check YHA Rotorua out:

9. Emerald Spa Motor Inn

A perfect retreat for couples, Emerald Spa Motor Inn offers romance packages and irresistible spa rooms. While the motel is a little out of town, it’s just a few minutes from the acclaimed Redwoods Forest. See more stays like this in 10 Best Romantic Accommodations in Rotorua.

Check Emerald Spa Motor Inn out:

10. Holiday Inn Rotorua

Another accommodation located near the Redwoods Forest, the Holiday Inn Rotorua is a convenient hotel option for making the most out of the tourist attractions. It’s a great value option for families where kids stay and eat for free, while couples and groups of friends will have no qualm with the simple yet fresh rooms.

Check Holiday Inn Rotorua out:

11. Prince’s Gate Hotel

The Prince’s Gate Hotel oozes elegance and class. If you’re not popping in for their acclaimed high tea, then at least stay in one of only 50 luxury rooms and suites with traditional decor. In true Rotorua style, guests have access to thermally heated pools, as well as a private hot pool and sauna. See similar recommendations in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Rotorua.

Check Prince’s Gate Hotel out:

12. Best Western Braeside Rotorua & Conference Centre

Located in a leafy suburb, the Best Western Braeside makes a great retreat from the day’s adventures. The hotel offers a range of facilities including a heated outdoor swimming pool, a spa area, minigolf, a children’s playground, a games room and a trout stream for fishing.

Check Best Western Braeside out:

13. RotoVegas Motel of Rotorua

Another goodie on the road known as the “Motel Mile”, RotoVegas Motel of Rotorua is a top choice of accommodations in Rotorua. The modern and vibrant decor is refreshing, complementing the kitchen facilities and private spa pools in most rooms.

Check RotoVegas Motel out:

14. BK’s Rotorua Motor Lodge

BK’s Rotorua Motor Lodge offers a range of rooms from simple studios to more luxurious and spacious studios with a spa, some of which can be interconnected for groups. Conveniently, BK’s Rotorua is located by a supermarket and within a short walk of the city centre.

Check BK’s Rotorua Motor Lodge out:

15. Wai Ora Lakeside Resort

Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort is the place to unwind, rejuvenate and indulge in Rotorua, boasting a fabulous day spa. Contemporary fine dining can be experienced at the award-winning Mokoia Restaurant. For more resorts like this, see 10 Best Accommodations in Rotorua for Foodies.

Check Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort out:

16. Ngamihi Lodge

Escape to Rotorua’s nearby Lake Okareka by staying at Ngamihi Lodge. There are three inviting suites at this designer B&B, some of which have two bedrooms should you have a larger group.

Check Ngamihi Lodge out:

17. Rotorua TOP 10 Holiday Park

Whether you’re looking for a camping spot or a self-contained unit, Rotorua TOP 10 Holiday Park offers them all right next to the free city-centre geothermal park, Kuirau Park. See more recommendations like this in Where to Camp in Rotorua.

Check Rotorua TOP 10 Holiday Park out:

18. VR Rotorua Lake Resort

A tranquil retreat on the shores of Lake Rotoiti and a 15-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of town, VR Rotorua Lake Resort spans across seven acres of manicured gardens and includes a swimming pool, spa, sauna and 42 luxurious rooms and suites.

Check VR Rotorua Lake Resort out:

19. Rotorua Central Backpackers

What? A hostel with no bunks? That’s right! Rotorua Central Backpackers is also the only hostel in town with baths. Alternatively, in the true spirit of Rotorua, bathe in the spa pool.

Check Rotorua Central Backpackers out:

Rotorua Central Backpackers on Booking.com

20. All Seasons Holiday Park

As well as camping accommodation, All Seasons Holiday Park has bungalows, studios and apartments. Enjoy the swimming pool, tennis court and nearby walks in Hannah’s Bay, a short drive from the city centre. Also, free parking and WiFi!

Check All Seasons Holiday Park out:

21. Rotorua Downtown Backpackers

Rotorua Downtown Backpackers is right in the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal hub with the i-SITE and bus stop just down the road and all the shops and services at your fingertips.

Check Rotorua Downtown Backpackers out:

22. KARANDA BnB

Perched on a hillside on the edge of town, KARANDA BnB offers charming accommodation with rooms suitable for solo travellers up to groups of five. Enjoy an included breakfast on the patio or dining room with unbeatable views.

Check KARANDA BnB out:

23. Aura Accommodation

An eco-friendly base located close to the infamous Eat Streat and waterfront, Aura Accommodation offers geothermally heated studios and apartments. Enjoy their outdoor pool, bike hire and reasonable prices.

Check Aura Accommodation out:

24. Rotorua BnB on Sumner

Get the locals’ experiences at Rotorua BnB on Sumner. The homestay has three guest rooms in the leafy suburb of Glenholme. Enjoy an included breakfast, free airport pick-up and friendly hosts.

Check Rotorua BnB on Sumner out:

25. Quest Rotorua Central

The international apartment hotel has a presence in Rotorua. Quest Rotorua Central is convenient in its city-centre location, as well as its contemporary self-contained facilities.

Check Quest Rotorua Central out:

26. Koutu Beach Bed and Breakfast

Situated on a secluded beach on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Koutu Beach Bed and Breakfast easily earns its place on this list of best accommodations in Rotorua purely for the location. The B&B boasts well-appointed ensuite rooms.

Check Koutu Beach Bed and Breakfast out:

27. Arista of Rotorua

Another motel well worth considering on Motel Mile is Arista of Rotorua. Most rooms have been designed with families and groups in mind as no room is less than 62m (203ft). Each unit even has a private spa pool to enjoy, while you’ll be sure to keep warm in the thermally-heated rooms.

Check Arista of Rotorua out:

28. Thermal Oak Motel

A popular option on Motel Mile, Thermal Oak Motel has a selection of recently renovated studios, apartments and a flat for a reasonable price. They have two outdoor spa pools for guests to indulge in.

Check Thermal Oak Motel out:

29. Novotel Rotorua Lakeside

Stay in a contemporary 4.5-star hotel in the heart of Rotorua. While the Novotel Rotorua Lakeside is only moments away from Eat Street, it offers a fabulous bar and restaurant with a lake-view terrace. As for the rooms, relax in the earthy-toned interior with large picture windows allowing natural light to fill the room.

Check Novotel Rotorua Lakeside out:

30. Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park

Ideal for couples, groups or those wanting a lot of space to themselves, Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park has a great choice of cabins. Although it’s about 10 minutes drive from the city centre, it is within walking distance to other Rotorua attractions like Te Puia.

Check Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park out:

31. Malones Spa Motel

If you’re looking for something a little more stylish on the “Motel Mile” then set your sights on the four-star Malones Spa Motel. The accommodation features 20 rooms with cable TV, on-demand movies and basic kitchenette facilities. Most rooms also feature a private hot tub or plunge pool.

Check Malones Spa Motel out:

32. Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Enjoy a pampered stay at the Millennium Hotel Rotorua. Downtime at the hotel can be made up using the on-site spa, fitness centre, gym, pool or by wining and dining at the ultra-sleek Bar Zazu, casual Brasserie Poolside Restaurant, or the fine dining venue Restaurant Nikau.

Check Millennium Hotel Rotorua out:

33. Rotorua Motel

You can’t go too far wrong with the modern furnishings and spa bath accommodation of the Rotorua Motel. Most rooms come with either a spa bath or spa pool and a small yet modern kitchen.

Check Rotorua Motel out:

34. Astray Backpackers & Motel

Astray is a compact hostel and motel that will blow you away with cleanliness and sleek decor. In a super convenient city-centre location – you can’t go wrong!

Check Astray Backpackers & Motel out:

35. Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel

A stylish retreat on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel is well worth considering for a special occasion or “just because”. Bask in the views and enjoy elegant spaces throughout the property.

Check Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel out:

36. Capri on Fenton

Capri on Fenton is situated mid-way on Fenton Street, a short drive from the city centre and other Rotorua attractions. The motel has 17 spacious units complete with kitchens and a geothermally-heated spa pool.

Check Capri on Fenton out:

37. Peppers on the Point Lake Rotorua

Another stunner on the lakefront, Peppers on the Point Lake Rotorua is a former 1930s mansion redesigned into a luxury hotel. There’s never a dull moment between the tennis court, spa treatments, library and farm animals on the grounds.

Check Peppers on the Point Lake Rotorua out:

38. Golden Glow Motel

Golden Glow Motel offers more premium features for your cash. At a reasonable price, get a private double, family or twin room with your own private spa pool. Not only is the Golden Glow Motel just a 5-minute walk from the city centre, but it also offers free WiFi, parking and shuttle service to and from the bus station.

Check Golden Glow Motel out:

39. Fenton Court Motel

And the motels keep on coming on Fenton Street (Motel Mile), this time at the Fenton Court Motel. Each motel room boasts a private spa bath and pool, a full kitchen, Sky TV and electric blankets to ensure a comfortable stay.

Check Fenton Court Motel out:

40. Lakeside City Apartments

The Lakeside City Apartments offers some surprisingly affordable penthouses and studios with free continental breakfast and a private terrace. Find the accommodation near Kuirau Park.

Check Lakeside City Apartments out:

41. Planet Backpackers

With super friendly and knowledgeable staff, Planet Backpackers has heaps of advice on what to do in the Rotorua and Taupo area. Make use of the spacious communal kitchen and dining area, as well as a pool table, dartboard and free unlimited WiFi.

Check Planet Backpackers out:

42. Cedarwood Lakeside Motel & Conference Venue

Overlooking Holdens Bay yet conveniently close to the airport, Cedarwood Lakeside Motel & Conference Venue is a pleasant stay whether you’re visiting on leisure or business. Stay in attractive timber-lined studios and suites with easy access to the outside pool.

Check Cedarwood Lakeside Motel & Conference Venue out:

43. ASURE Palm Court Motor Inn

More “Motel Mile” delights await at this other well-appointed motel, ASURE Palm Court Motor Inn! There’s something for everyone between the 17 self-contained units, some with private courtyards containing a spa pool.

Check ASURE Palm Court Motor Inn out:

44. Cleveland Thermal Motel

Just down the road from Kuirau park and a short walk or drive into town, Cleveland Thermal Motel offers relaxing accommodation with its own indoor mineral pool. The eco-friendly motel has geothermally heated rooms, showers and swimming pool.

Check Cleveland Thermal Motel out:

45. Rotorua Hideaway Lodge

Rotorua Hideaway Lodge might be out of town but it’s arguably closer to the action with Agrodome, Zorb, Wingspan and Rainbow Springs nearby. The countryside lodge prides itself on being one of the most family (and pet) friendly accommodations in Rotorua.

Check Rotorua Hideaway Lodge out:

46. The Willows

Experience affordable lake-edge luxury with friends and family at this wonderful holiday home near Rainbow Springs. The Willows is kitted out with a gorgeous garden, free use of kayaks, a spa pool and four bedrooms sleeping up to 12 guests.

Check The Willows out:

47. City Lights Boutique Lodge

On the slopes of Mt Ngongotaha, City Lights Boutique Lodge offers one of the most luxurious B&B accommodations in Rotoura. There are three guest rooms available with a shared lounge, gym, sauna and spa.

Check City Lights Boutique Lodge out:

48. Kiwi As Guest House

Kiwi As Guest House is sitting on the fence. It’s not quite a backpacker hostel, yet not quite a hotel. Whatever you want to call it, Kiwi As Guest House has a mix of affordable accommodation with a 4-bed dorm, a single room with shared bathroom, family rooms and double rooms.

Check Kiwi As Guest House out:

49. Waiteti Trout Stream Holiday Park

Stay in locals’ favourite, Ngongotaha – a quiet corner of Lake Rotorua. Waiteti Trout Stream Holiday Park offers something for solo travellers, couples and groups with some super budget accommodation in Rotorua. What’s more, there are attractions of its own, such as fishing and kayaking.

Check Waiteti Trout Stream Holiday Park out:

50. Gemini Lodge

Finally, indulge in a recipe of luxury at Gemini Lodge. There are four stunning holiday homes among the gorgeous lakeside grounds to choose from. The property has a large outdoor pool, spa pool, private jetty, fire pit, gym and more.

Check Gemini Lodge out:

More About the Best Accommodations in Rotorua

Discover the must-do activities, as well as more of the best accommodations in Rotorua in the following articles:

Author

Laura S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in New Zealand over 10 years ago and with a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to travel New Zealand. She knows Aotearoa inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience New Zealand’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides and is the co-host of NZ Pocket Guide’s live New Zealand travel Q&As on YouTube.

Contact Laura via our contact page