Solitaire Lodge

We had an unforgettable one-night stay at this picture-perfect lodge. The food was incredible, and the lake even more so. We took a 3hr helicopter ride around the surrounding area, landing at the volcano and a geothermal park. All spectacular and facilitated by exceptional service.

We had high expectations for our stay at Solitaire Lodge in Rotorua, based on friends who had stayed 7 years before as well as 5 star rating. The setting here is stunning, but the lodge is not a five star accommodation as advertised. Our room had a beautiful view of the lake and was comfortable but tired furnishings and smallish bathroom. Bath products were not from New Zealand and were too perfumed and not luxury at all. Bed was very comfortable and outdoor bathtub a very nice touch. The Owners seemed distracted and stressed, often not noticing when we entered the lodge. They were doing renovations on some rooms during our stay, which we were not notified about, and we heard construction noise our first few days which was not relaxing when in our room. The common rooms also were very tired looking and unattended to. The Staff were very nice and accommodating, but several were completely untrained in the restaurant, not knowing how to clear plates or recommend wine. The food was a mixed bag. Breakfast and lunch were very good but dinner was not- 5 courses that were not coordinated at all, too many conflicting and heavy flavors and sauces mixed into dishes. Overall a disappointing experience. We cannot recommend staying here until the above are addressed. Definitely not currently worth the high price charged.

We had a lovely 2 night stay at Solitaire Lodge. The property is beautifully set on the lake within the lush flora and fauna of the area. There is only one road in and out from Rotorua (20-30 minute drive depending on traffic or road works), with no other amenities along the route. We pulled up to the gated entrance and Wayne buzzed us in, after which he met us outside to greet us and help with our luggage, however not before a quick tour of the property. We were also immediately offered some lunch or a platter to our room which was greatly appreciated. The room itself was simple but elegantly designed, with fantastic views from the large windows out across the lake. The minibar was nicely stocked with drinks and snacks that we greatly enjoyed, especially the homemade biscuits. The bed was very comfortable, and it was a treat to have a bath outside on our balcony. The bathroom itself was simple, with a bidet, but the shower was consistent and powerful- one of the best we have used in NZ. The communal areas were simple but comfortable, but could do with a refresh or some modernisation. Food was wonderful, and the chefs were had were greatly accommodating with any dietaries (or pickiness) we had. The lunch meal we had was our favourite of the visit. A special thanks to Ian for his service in the evenings and for making the best espresso martinis we had in NZ! We could only find a few minor points with our stay: our room had a TV, but it was so small and the signal was so poor that we felt it actually detracted from the quality of the room, and it would have been better without. We would also have loved to have seen some local soaps/shampoos/conditioners in the bathroom, and the skylight in our bathroom was looking very old, mouldy and the paint was beginning to peel so this could have done with some TLC. Finally, the decor and offerings feel well suited to an older clientele. However, the guests (including ourselves) at the time were all around their 30s. With that said, the stay would be enjoyable for all ages.

This place is very special . I would recommend very much The view is amazing and peaceful The room very spacious and the atmosphere is very pleasant The service very much good The Restaurant serves excellent food Breakfast unique with home made bread and brioche The best you can find in NZ is the early morning bath in the hot spring in the forest This experience is unique Thank you to the owner who made all the effort to give us the best including the helicopter excursion to the Vulcan . Unforgettable ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We thoroughly enjoyed this lodge. The staff is wonderful and the food is absolutely amazing. We both agree it was the best cuisine we encountered during our 3 week NZ trip. The view is spectacular and the waterfall hike and morning boat to hot springs exceeded expectations. A little off the beaten path but completely worth it!

Everyone there PERSONALLY cares about you and your enjoyment….more than most families. They ensure your entire experience in the local area is the best. Wayne and Ian were amazing…great wine, cocktails and food! Don’t miss fishing on the lake and the waterfall trail (this mostly flat trail does have a few steep areas that you have to navigate), the beauty of the falls made it worthwhile. The rooms were nice and spacious with great views.