Koura Lodge, Rotorua

Location

Enjoying an unrivalled position on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Koura Lodge is idyllically located. It’s also just five minutes’ drive to the city centre and even closer to many of the region’s attractions. And what spectacles they are. Geysers burst 30 metres into the air, geographically sculpted crags bend and twist and the Maori welcome with a rich range of cultural performances. Take it all in from the lodge’s seaplane flights, landing and departing from its jetty.

Accommodation

Accommodating a maximum of 20 guests, your hosts Gavin and Kim are able to provide the individual attention that’s become the hallmark of New Zealand hospitality. All ten rooms feature magnificent, 180-degree lake views from floor-to-ceiling French windows. You’ll wake to the sound of native bird life and perhaps end it with a drink on your private hardwood verandah. Inside, rooms are tastefully decorated with timber accents while luxurious bathrobes, cotton lines and pure New Zealand wool duvets ensure that you’re more than comfortable. Decide between the Suites, Rooms, Luxury Apartment (complete with pool table) or even an exclusive lodge booking. Whatever you choose, complimentary WiFi keeps you in touch with home.

Dining

After starting your day with the sunrise over Lake Rotorua, take your complimentary breakfast either on the veranda or the lakefront dining room. Enjoy a selection of cooked favourites and healthy options; the blueberry muffins and the fluffy scrambled eggs rank among the highlights. And, in the Luxury Apartment there’s a fully equipped and modern kitchen with the option of self-catering. For lunch and dinner, Rotorua features a full range of dining options.

Facilities

Despite it’s intimate size, there’s a collection of superb amenities on offer at Koura Lodge. It’s one of the few places in Rotorua where you’ll be able to enjoy a spa pool and a Finnish sauna, beautifully set on the lakeside. The waters also offer both kayaking and fishing with the latter particularly good; the lake is regarded as having the highest concentration of Rainbow Trout of any lake worldwide. It’s also famed for its trophy brown trout. If you’d rather stay near terra firma, make use of the championship-sized AstoTurf tennis court with rackets available to borrow.