Lake Plaza is the largest hotel in Rotorua with arguably the best location. It is situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua, and some of the 250 rooms have good views of the lake and nearby thermal areas. We were booked to stay two nights but extended for a further night because we enjoyed the hotel and found plenty to do in the region.
Rotorua is only a small city, so walking is a good option. From the hotel we walked to the Polynesian Spa, the Government Gardens and Museum, and the city centre. The hotel is only two blocks away from the city centre and a large, new shopping complex. The spa complex is even closer.
The hotel sprawls over the site. Because it was not all built at the same time, the result is less than perfect. Our room was one of the furthest from reception, and we had to go outside while walking between buildings. This is the downside of a low-rise building, but it was great to be on ground level and to have the car close by the room.
The room we had was fairly standard for a four-star property. It was larger than average and the standard of fittings was good. (Get more from web site.)
One of the attractions for many people will be the daily Maori hangi and concert. This commences at 6:45pm in the Baycrest Room. Reservations are essential. We did not go to this because we had previously been to two such events on previous visits to New Zealand.
If you just want conventional food, the Lakes Restaurant is the ‘go’. This opens for breakfast 6:30-10am and from 6pm-10pm for dinner. Mallards Bar is located on the lake side of the foyer and is open from 4pm until late. 24-hour room service is also available.
There are the usual hotel features. Business services are available. A nice touch is the internet and email computer, which is available for personal use. There is a naturally heated pool and private spa pools. Therapeutic massage is available in the therapy room. Many guests will appreciate the guest laundries, which open from 7am to 11pm.