Rotorua is a stunning destination that captures the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, known for its geothermal wonders, Māori culture, and natural beauty. For travelers on a budget, Rotorua offers plenty of accommodation options that combine comfort, affordability, and accessibility to the city’s major attractions. During my time in Rotorua, I had the pleasure of staying at a fantastic budget-friendly hotel, and I also took the opportunity to research and explore other affordable hotels in the area. Whether you’re visiting for a short weekend getaway or a longer stay, this guide will help you find the best hotels in Rotorua without breaking the bank.
My Stay: Sudima Lake Rotorua
Location: 1000 Eruera Street, Rotorua
Sudima Lake Rotorua is perfectly located for exploring the city’s geothermal attractions, being just a short walk away from Lake Rotorua and the city center. It is located near the Rotorua Museum, Government Gardens, and Eat Streat, a lively street full of great dining options. The hotel provides an excellent base for anyone looking to explore the best of Rotorua while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the lake.
How to Book:
I booked my stay through Booking.com, which offered me a good rate, including breakfast, and gave me the flexibility to cancel if needed. The process was quick and easy, and the platform provided useful reviews from past guests, which helped me make my final decision.
Getting There:
Reaching Sudima Lake Rotorua from the Rotorua i-SITE Visitor Centre was easy, as the hotel is just a short 10-minute taxi ride away. If you’re driving, it’s even more convenient, with free on-site parking available for hotel guests. Rotorua is a small city, so getting around by foot or taxi is ideal for visitors staying here.
The Environment:
From the moment I walked through the doors of Sudima Lake Rotorua, I felt at ease. The hotel’s modern decor, paired with its serene lakeside setting, created a welcoming and relaxing environment. The large windows in the lobby offered panoramic views of the lake and the distant hills. As soon as I checked in, the staff greeted me with warmth and professionalism, and I was immediately struck by their attention to detail. The lobby area is cozy with comfortable seating, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Facilities:
For a budget-friendly hotel, Sudima Lake Rotorua offers some great amenities, making it a top choice for travelers.
- Heated Pool and Spa: After spending the day exploring Rotorua, I was able to relax in the outdoor heated pool and hot tub, which felt absolutely amazing. The spa area offered stunning views of Lake Rotorua.
- On-Site Restaurant: The hotel has an excellent on-site restaurant that serves a variety of dishes. I particularly enjoyed their breakfast buffet, which featured a range of local fruits, eggs, sausages, pastries, and fresh coffee. It was the perfect start to a busy day of sightseeing.
- Free Wi-Fi: The Wi-Fi was free and fast, which was essential for keeping in touch with friends and family back home and for planning the next leg of my trip.
- Laundry Services: Since I was traveling for a while, the hotel’s laundry facilities were a lifesaver. The service was reasonably priced, and it helped me keep my clothes fresh and clean throughout my stay.
My Experience:
I was pleasantly surprised by how spacious and comfortable my room was. The bed was large and cozy, with soft linens, making it easy to get a restful night’s sleep. The room also included a desk, which I used to catch up on emails, as well as a small fridge and tea and coffee-making facilities. The bathroom was simple but clean and functional, with a powerful shower that had plenty of hot water.
The best part about the room was the view—it faced Lake Rotorua, and I woke up every morning to the sight of the mist rising from the geothermal activity on the lake’s edge. It was a peaceful and picturesque way to start my day. The hotel’s location was fantastic, as I was able to walk to many of Rotorua’s top attractions, including the Rotorua Museum, the nearby Government Gardens, and the famous Polynesian Spa.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Why? The combination of excellent value, great location, and top-notch amenities made Sudima Lake Rotorua a fantastic choice for me. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Rotorua, especially for travelers on a budget.
Other Affordable Hotels in Rotorua
While Sudima Lake Rotorua was a fantastic option for my stay, Rotorua has a variety of budget-friendly hotels to suit different preferences. Here are some other great hotels I looked into for future trips, each offering a different style and experience:
1. Rotorua Citizens Club
Location: 1146 Rangiuru Street, Rotorua
The Rotorua Citizens Club is an excellent choice for travelers who prefer simplicity and affordability. It’s located just a short distance from the city center, and it’s a great option for those looking for a no-frills, convenient stay.
Facilities:
The hotel offers basic but comfortable rooms with amenities such as tea and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site bar and restaurant that serves affordable meals. Guests can also take advantage of free parking and laundry services.
Nearby Attractions:
- Eat Streat: A lively dining area located just a 5-minute walk away, perfect for trying local food.
- Kuirau Park: A unique geothermal park with bubbling mud pools and hot springs, located about 10 minutes on foot from the hotel.
Price Range: $80–$120 NZD per night.
2. Greenview Motel
Location: 418 Fenton Street, Rotorua
For those seeking a cozy yet affordable option, the Greenview Motel is an excellent choice. This motel is located on Fenton Street, close to many popular attractions and is an ideal base for exploring Rotorua.
Facilities:
The rooms at Greenview Motel are spacious and come with kitchenettes, making it perfect for travelers who want to cook their own meals. There’s also a hot tub and outdoor pool, which guests can enjoy during their stay. Free Wi-Fi and parking are included as well.
Nearby Attractions:
- Te Puia: Known for its geothermal activity and Māori cultural experiences, just a 5-minute drive away.
- Whakarewarewa Forest: A beautiful area for walking and biking, located 10 minutes away from the motel.
Price Range: $85–$130 NZD per night.
3. Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park
Location: 463 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua
The Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park is a great option for travelers looking to enjoy a more outdoorsy experience. With a range of accommodations, from budget cabins to powered campsites, this park offers something for everyone.
Facilities:
- Outdoor thermal pools, which are free for guests to use.
- BBQ areas and communal kitchens for preparing your own meals.
- Pet-friendly accommodations, so you can bring your furry friends along.
Nearby Attractions:
- Redwoods Treewalk: A beautiful canopy walk in the nearby Whakarewarewa Forest, just a 7-minute drive from the park.
- Rotorua Canopy Tours: A thrilling zipline experience, located nearby.
Price Range: $60–$120 NZD per night.
4. BK’s Rotorua Motor Lodge
Location: 16 Victoria Street, Rotorua
Located in the heart of Rotorua, BK’s Rotorua Motor Lodge offers great value for money with spacious and well-equipped rooms. This motel is within walking distance of many shops, cafes, and attractions.
Facilities:
The rooms at BK’s Rotorua come with kitchenettes, which is great for guests who prefer cooking their own meals. The motel also offers free Wi-Fi, parking, and an on-site spa bath in select rooms for extra relaxation.
Nearby Attractions:
- Government Gardens: A beautiful park with historic buildings, just a 10-minute walk away.
- Polynesian Spa: A world-renowned geothermal spa, just a short walk from the motel.
Price Range: $100–$150 NZD per night.
5. Jet Park Hotel Rotorua
Location: 237 Fenton Street, Rotorua
Jet Park Hotel Rotorua is a family-friendly, well-maintained hotel that offers excellent service at an affordable price. Located in the city center, it’s convenient for visitors who want to explore Rotorua’s many attractions.
Facilities:
- Complimentary continental breakfast.
- Heated outdoor pool and hot tub.
- An on-site bar and restaurant offering a wide selection of dishes.
Nearby Attractions:
- Rotorua Night Market: A vibrant evening market offering street food and local crafts, located just a short walk away.
- Rotorua Museum: A fantastic place to learn about the city’s history and culture, just 15 minutes away on foot.
Price Range: $120–$160 NZD per night.
Rotorua offers a variety of affordable accommodations that cater to all kinds of travelers, whether you’re looking for a cozy motel, a modern hotel, or an adventurous holiday park experience. My stay at Sudima Lake Rotorua was incredible, and after researching these other budget-friendly options, I’m confident that Rotorua will continue to offer plenty of great stays for anyone visiting this charming city. Whether you’re here for the geothermal wonders, Māori culture, or outdoor adventures, Rotorua’s affordable accommodations ensure that you can enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.
