Is parking available at the property?

Yes, free self-parking is available on-site. However, parking is limited.

What type of breakfast is offered and what are the serving hours?

Cooked-to-order breakfasts are available daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee of approximately NZD 25 for adults and children.

What are the standard check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and check-out is by 10:00 AM. Early check-in and late check-out may be available for an additional fee of NZD 50, subject to availability.

Are airport shuttle services available?

Yes, complimentary shuttle services operate within 8 kilometers of the property. Guests can arrange the transfer by contacting the hotel prior to arrival.

What accessibility features are available for guests with disabilities?

The property offers step-free entrances and wheelchair-accessible facilities in public areas and rooms. Guests are encouraged to contact the property for specific accessibility needs.

Where is the property located in relation to key landmarks?

The resort is located steps from Lake Rotorua and just 5 minutes on foot from Te Amorangi Museum. It is approximately 2.1 miles from Haiku Pathway and 3.4 miles from Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest.

Does the property have a swimming pool?

Yes, there is a seasonal outdoor swimming pool open from January to December. Pool access is available from 8 AM to 9 PM.

What are the policies for guests staying with children?

Children are welcome at the property. There is no charge for children under the minimum age of 18 when staying with an adult.

Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort - Rotorua Accommodations

Average nightly price at Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort by month, last 12 months (USD)
Month	Average price
January	$113
February	$127
March	$108
April	$100
May	$79
June	$72
July	$75
August	$77
September	$79
October	$92
November	$102
December	$105

What guests think

Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort offers a quiet, lakeside setting away from Rotorua’s center, with many guests praising friendly staff and pleasant on-site dining, but reviews frequently note dated rooms and inconsistently maintained or unavailable spa and pool facilities.

Cleanliness feedback is mixed, ranging from spotless rooms to mold, grime, or unpleasant odors in some bathrooms and spa areas. Rooms vary in size and views, with comfortable beds reported, but thin walls and maintenance issues like weak water pressure, faulty air conditioning, and worn fixtures appear in several reviews. The location is peaceful but a car is usually needed, and some amenities or the restaurant/bar may be closed or limited at times. Expect a tranquil lakeside stay with variable facilities and service consistency.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Pools, spas, sauna and steam room are inconsistent: multiple reports of closures, cold or dirty water, and nonoperational facilities, though some guests enjoyed warm pools and the on-site bar/restaurant. Expect occasional early closures or limited availability.

Related guest reviews

8

Lynn

Feb 11, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The pool was out of action disappointingly and the bar shut quite early. We would have stayed in town had we realised we weren’t within walking distance of amenities. However staff were really nice and the rooms were lovely. I have left a dress in the wardrobe and can’t seem to get an answer to my emails.

4

Taryn

Mar 8, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Basically had 1 staff member running the whole place. Sauna didn’t work, steam room had to be turned on before use by the one guy doing all the other jobs then had to wait 20 mins for it. You can find better in the area for similar price.

6

D H

Oct 5, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

No real view and the so called spa was mostly not operational. Spas were cold and dirty...hot pool was cold. Only the sauna was working. Swimming pool area was nice. I think this place has seen better days because my friend said she was here years ago and the pool in spa area was hot and a waiter came to the pool to serve them the cocktails they had ordered

8

Beverly

Oct 16, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

A bit disappointing. Restaurant not open nor the bar. Also Sauna and Jacuzzi were closed, so felt paid for services that were not available.

6

Margaret

Nov 8, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

This place has a beautiful view of the lake and the pool is kept up very well. It’s obvious that this hotel was once very nice, unfortunately it is showing its age, and needs updating. The pictures online do not match the current state. The vanity in our bathroom had a broken door and the shower sprayed water out the side. The walls are very thin and you can hear every noise outside. The outdoor sauna and steam room looked like they hadn’t been used in a while, and were not operational when we checked. On a brighter note, the bar and restaurant were very nice, and the front desk attendants were very friendly and helpful.

8

Chris

Dec 29, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful view of the lake. Really appreciated the bug spray in our room when we arrived back late at night. Loved the warm pool and fabulous hot spas as well as the outdoor swimming pool and loved having them to ourselves. Such a great way to start the day. 🙂 as well as the picnic table next to the pool. The pot plants around the pool need updating. And also, the water in our room, the morning we checked out, was either hot or boiling! Too hot to hop under the shower. Otherwise, a beautiful stay. Thank you.

8

Jennifer

Jan 29, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Nice to have the use of both a cool swimming pool and a heated outdoor pool plus the spas. The saunas weren't operating but didn't mind that. The beds were very comfortable and the shower had great pressure. Happy with our stay and kids loved it too.

10

Pip

Nov 30, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Great place to stay with pool, spa, restaurant and bar. We really enjoyed our time there

4

Amy

Feb 13, 2026

·

Stayed 2 nights

This place should not be called a "spa" or a resort". It is a motel. it's run down and one of the pools is so dirty it looks like it is hazardous to get in it. The main pool was better but still needed cleaning. The bathroom was also gross. There was a spa tub that looked like it hadn't been cleaned after too many uses and the shower was in need of a scrub. Our first morning the guests next door we're walking out at the same time as us. A man said to us: "hey, neighbors" and then "F-you" and then him and his partner both started laughing. Maybe they were drunk? This was 10:30 in the morning. We ended up changing our plans and leaving a day early as we didn't feel comfortable staying there. When checking out early the receptionist asked why. We expressed our concerns and all she said in response was "I can't give you a refund" despite us never asking for one. We were just happy to get out of there.

8

Denise

Sep 10, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Clean room and comfy bed. Great spa bath. However lounge room felt old and tired. No restaurant or swimming pool available during our stay.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Cleanliness

Cleanliness varies widely: many mention very clean rooms, but several reviews cite moldy grout, dirty or slimy spa tubs/pools, grime, and occasional unpleasant odors.

Related guest reviews

6

Holly

Sep 8, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

This place is not a resort and is misleading. We booked 3 rooms for 4 adults on the same booking thru expedia & at the motels end, the bookings come thru separately so we were not grouped together. The main feature pool was empty for 'maintenance' which is not advertised anywhere AND I had called 2 days before check in to see if it was heated & I was told it was not... it had no damn water in it! A good 10min drive from cbd. The area is quiet, the room walls are thin & I could hear the people next door we had room 2 - the shower curtains were moldy and pink with scum. The toilet door design is ridiculous, if your trying to sleep & someone needs the loo, the whole room is lit up. Beds where firm and I found them comfortable but everyone else did not Overall, would not stay again.

6

LAURA

Mar 1, 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

Room was average but comfortable. Shower grout was moldy but otherwise clean. Restaurant had good food bit second day it was not hot enough. Pretty views.

8

Carmen

Apr 1, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The resort is in a great location near the water and walkable to a McDonalds. The restaurant is quite pricey. We ordered pizza and ate in the pub area which was empty. Our room was absolutely filthy, with dead bugs on the night stand and smears on the ceilings and walls. The glass shelving hadn't been cleaned in ages. The bathroom was dank and smelled of mould. We requested a room changed and the lovely lady at the front desk was very accommodating. Our second room was much better, cleaner and the bathroom didn't smell. The pool and hot tub area were nice, however the hot tub had a nasty ring of gunk and slime. It's definitely due for a clean. We didn't get to try the spa as it was fully booked. We used the laundry facilities which was a nice bonus.

10

Jo

May 6, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Very clean and staff were friendly and helpful

4

Vincent

Jan 21, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Dirty room. Filthy spa and swimming pool. Fridge out of order.

4

Chris

Jan 9, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Staff were not warm or friendly. Room was dirty - showers were yellow and worn. There is no way this is a 4 star property. You can see how it might have been in the past but it certainly is not now.

10

Vanessa

May 12, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Lovely stay, gorgeous lake views. Very pleased. Perfectly clean and tidy.

6

Janine Karina

Nov 4, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Warum diese Unterkunft sich Spa nennt ist mir nicht ganz klar. Gerade das Badezimmer unseres Raumes war sehr vernachlässigt. Schimmel in den Fugen der Dusche, starke Verschmutzung des Duschkopfes und ein schlecht gereinigter Boden im ganzen Bad. Wir fühlten uns nicht wohl. Lediglich die Reaktion des Personals lässt sich loben. Man entschuldigte sich und gab uns innerhalb von fünf Minuten ein neues Zimmer samt Upgrade. Dieses war sehr viel geräumiger, jedoch zeigte das Bad wieder Zeichen des Alters, welche die ganze Anlage zu haben scheint. Dunkel Schwebpartiker in Jacuzzi…Nein Danke. In Rotorua gibt es sicher viele, modernere Hotels zum ähnlichen Preis. Leider sind wir auf die Fotos in der Anzeige reingefallen.

4

Amy

Feb 13, 2026

·

Stayed 2 nights

This place should not be called a "spa" or a resort". It is a motel. it's run down and one of the pools is so dirty it looks like it is hazardous to get in it. The main pool was better but still needed cleaning. The bathroom was also gross. There was a spa tub that looked like it hadn't been cleaned after too many uses and the shower was in need of a scrub. Our first morning the guests next door we're walking out at the same time as us. A man said to us: "hey, neighbors" and then "F-you" and then him and his partner both started laughing. Maybe they were drunk? This was 10:30 in the morning. We ended up changing our plans and leaving a day early as we didn't feel comfortable staying there. When checking out early the receptionist asked why. We expressed our concerns and all she said in response was "I can't give you a refund" despite us never asking for one. We were just happy to get out of there.

8

Mark

Sep 8, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Very very clean

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Rooms

Rooms range from compact to spacious with comfortable beds and some lake views, but decor feels dated and noise from thin walls is noted. Recurring maintenance issues include weak shower pressure, faulty A/C, and worn fixtures; Wi‑Fi can be poor.

Related guest reviews

6

Mary

Nov 12, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Broken Air conditioning, no screens in windows so lots of sand fleas inside. Shower temperature inconsistent. Sofa not very comfortable and felt stained. No cooktop.

8

James

Dec 21, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Nice getaway for 2 nights. Loved the lake view from the room and having my own spa. Best to prebook hotel transfer to airport as it's not always ready on the go.

8

Tan Yin

Dec 30, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Room is spacious

6

Glen

Apr 19, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Convenient, quiet location. Staff was excellent in all respects. Property seemed a little “tired” and dated in its room decor and presentation.

8

Melinda

Jul 23, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Nice place well maintained. Wifi was terrible

6

Margaret

Nov 8, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

This place has a beautiful view of the lake and the pool is kept up very well. It’s obvious that this hotel was once very nice, unfortunately it is showing its age, and needs updating. The pictures online do not match the current state. The vanity in our bathroom had a broken door and the shower sprayed water out the side. The walls are very thin and you can hear every noise outside. The outdoor sauna and steam room looked like they hadn’t been used in a while, and were not operational when we checked. On a brighter note, the bar and restaurant were very nice, and the front desk attendants were very friendly and helpful.

8

Jane

Jul 7, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

We had a quiet room near to the lake. The room itself was very nice, with an excellent bed. Good TV channels and enough space to feel like we weren't just in a tiny box. The bathroom and shower area was especially nice. We didn't use the spa pools or any other services.

6

Chris

Jan 21, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Property and rooms were quite smaller and outdated. Air conditioner was present but very loud. Walls were thin and room to room noise was present.

8

Craig

Jan 16, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

9/10, very nice place. I only ding it a point because the rooms are a bit small and it's the only place I haven't had a microwave or at least mini kitchen. There is a mini fridge but that's it. Beautiful location right on the lake. A few minutes out of downtown on the east side of the lake but nice and secluded.

10

Andrew

Jan 21, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Booked suite, wonderful lake view and spa bath was a nice treat

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Service

Many guests praise friendly, helpful staff, yet others report short staffing, slow service, poor communication, and occasional rudeness or unprofessional behavior. Transport/shuttle coordination and response times can be inconsistent.

Related guest reviews

6

Sarah

Aug 9, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

I think you require a vehicle to travel around the surrounding area..Nice view however you better suited to stay in the Ibis local to restarants and cafes.This place is very peaceful calm yet dated(limited channels, the internal spa looked like it needed a good scrub)..The receptionist staff was lovely..limited information about the area.There is a bus that gets you into town make sure you purchase tap card..Ubers to town are 28 dollars.So if you dont drive pick somewhere close to town and tours wont pick you up from here.There is an apparent shuttle bus that the hotel offers you to town but the driver was not available

4

Virginia

Feb 19, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Our room became invaded by trout flies in the evening. The manager called us “naughty” guests” for opening our windows which we shouldn’t have done but the sign about trout flies was small and not brought to our attention. The manager gave us a vacuum to deal with fly situation. Not great people skills!!

6

Penelope

Mar 6, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Was quiet and secure. Seemed short staffed during our stay. Our cocktail took at least 20 minutes to arrive. On checking out computers wouldn’t cooperate and had to work out manually what dinner and drinks were to be charged. Overall stay was good but maybe more staff tequired

10

Nancy

Sep 27, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Excellent service, staff are very friendly and accommodating. Clean room and very comfortable bed. Great location, nice and peaceful. Good meals at the restaurant, nice surroundings and atmosphere. Would love to ho back in the summer.

8

Karen

Nov 27, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Lovely staff

8

Christopher

Dec 4, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

This “resort” feels a bit tired and in need of some TLC. Staff are overworked but friendly. Location is good just a few miles out of Rotorua’s busy town center.

8

Peter

Jan 21, 2026

·

Stayed 1 night

A very helpful staff. Clean rooms. The dining room was pleasant and both the breakfast and dinner of good quality, tasty and good value.

8

Vijay Kumar

Nov 30, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Austin, the manager,s behaviour excellant He accomodate all the time thanks Austin

10

Shauna

Nov 5, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Lovely caring helpful staff. Good location.

2

Sanjeev

Mar 24, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The property manager was rude and constantly fighting with her employees. She talked loudly in her native language and was using foul language in front of guests. We had requested early check in, but were asked to wait beyond the regular check in time. I am asking for a full refund of our stay.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Location

Scenic, lakeside and quiet, a short drive from Rotorua and handy to the airport and attractions if you have a car. Many note it’s not walkable to town, so driving is recommended.

Related guest reviews

6

Khouanmina

Jul 10, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

It's quiet far from city centre

10

Malcolm

Dec 25, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The room was very comfortable and we slept well. Went for a swim in the lake. Staff were helpful. Food was good. A little way out of town, which we liked Convenient for local attractions

8

Christopher

Dec 4, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

This “resort” feels a bit tired and in need of some TLC. Staff are overworked but friendly. Location is good just a few miles out of Rotorua’s busy town center.

6

Michelle

Apr 24, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

A quiet location out of town on the lake, with free parking. The young staff seemed a bit anxious, warned me about the trout flies that can be about(not a problem for Aussies). The room was clean but a strange layout, beware that the toilet is directly opposite the door. The restaurant was expensive with a limited menu, meat was overcooked. We had terrible weather, this would be better in summer. The pillows were very hard, the mattress ok.

10

TOMOKO

Nov 26, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

町の中心から離れているので車がないと不便ですが、湖沿いなので散歩を楽しめます。歩いて15分くらいのところにマクドナルドがあります。スタッフの方はとても親切でした

10

Sue

Apr 28, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

An amazing resort. Would definitely recommend. Beautiful location by the lake. Staff very accommodating and Breakfast very tasty Car required as located out of town

8

Craig

Jan 16, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

9/10, very nice place. I only ding it a point because the rooms are a bit small and it's the only place I haven't had a microwave or at least mini kitchen. There is a mini fridge but that's it. Beautiful location right on the lake. A few minutes out of downtown on the east side of the lake but nice and secluded.

8

Maryanne

Dec 2, 2022

·

Stayed 19,327 nights

Comfortable bed, not too far from town centre by car. Situated on the Lake

8

Vicki

May 5, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Long way out of the town,

10

Gabrielle

Jun 27, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Handy to the airport. Warm and clean.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Dining

Food at the on-site restaurant and bar is often praised, though prices can feel high and service slow at times; closures or limited hours are reported on some days. Breakfast quality and variety receive mixed feedback.

Related guest reviews

8

Jacqueline

Sep 2, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Great food and service. Very clean and tidy. Bed was comfortable

10

Miriama

Jun 19, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Food was amazing in the resturant! Our room was nice and worth its money. Very happy!

8

Beverly

Oct 16, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

A bit disappointing. Restaurant not open nor the bar. Also Sauna and Jacuzzi were closed, so felt paid for services that were not available.

6

Michelle

Apr 24, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

A quiet location out of town on the lake, with free parking. The young staff seemed a bit anxious, warned me about the trout flies that can be about(not a problem for Aussies). The room was clean but a strange layout, beware that the toilet is directly opposite the door. The restaurant was expensive with a limited menu, meat was overcooked. We had terrible weather, this would be better in summer. The pillows were very hard, the mattress ok.

6

Margaret

Nov 8, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

This place has a beautiful view of the lake and the pool is kept up very well. It’s obvious that this hotel was once very nice, unfortunately it is showing its age, and needs updating. The pictures online do not match the current state. The vanity in our bathroom had a broken door and the shower sprayed water out the side. The walls are very thin and you can hear every noise outside. The outdoor sauna and steam room looked like they hadn’t been used in a while, and were not operational when we checked. On a brighter note, the bar and restaurant were very nice, and the front desk attendants were very friendly and helpful.

8

Carmen

Apr 1, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The resort is in a great location near the water and walkable to a McDonalds. The restaurant is quite pricey. We ordered pizza and ate in the pub area which was empty. Our room was absolutely filthy, with dead bugs on the night stand and smears on the ceilings and walls. The glass shelving hadn't been cleaned in ages. The bathroom was dank and smelled of mould. We requested a room changed and the lovely lady at the front desk was very accommodating. Our second room was much better, cleaner and the bathroom didn't smell. The pool and hot tub area were nice, however the hot tub had a nasty ring of gunk and slime. It's definitely due for a clean. We didn't get to try the spa as it was fully booked. We used the laundry facilities which was a nice bonus.

8

Peter

Jan 21, 2026

·

Stayed 1 night

A very helpful staff. Clean rooms. The dining room was pleasant and both the breakfast and dinner of good quality, tasty and good value.

10

Pip

Nov 30, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Great place to stay with pool, spa, restaurant and bar. We really enjoyed our time there

8

Denise

Sep 10, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Clean room and comfy bed. Great spa bath. However lounge room felt old and tired. No restaurant or swimming pool available during our stay.

8

Nataliia

May 7, 2023

·

Stayed 3 nights

Nice location, unfortunately the weather was bad so no use of outside pools. The restaurant was closed on Wednesday without notice.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
1 $108	2 $120	3 $120	4 $122	5 $120	6 $130	7 $130
8 $110	9 $112	10 $112	11 $110	12 $111	13 $146	14 $130
15 $131	16 $112	17 $179	18 $135	19 $104	20 $135	21 $135
22 $120	23 $125	24 $193	25 $140	26 $144	27 $143	28
29 $126	30 $175

Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort

Prices for Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort

Monthly average prices

About this property

Location

Room options

Panoramic Studio Suite, Lake View

Superior Suite

Deluxe Studio

Guest reviews of Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort

Who stays here?

What guests think

Property Policies

Check-in instructions

Security deposit

Good to know

Optional extras

FAQs about Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort

Prices for upcoming dates

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
				1	2	3
4	5	6	7	8	9	10
11	12	13	14	15	16	17
18	19	20	21	22 $77	23 $105	24
25 $113	26 $105	27 $98	28 $97	29 $110	30 $120	31 $119