By far the best experience for us ever. We took this trip to celebrate our wedding anniversary and we loved every minute of our stay. Wayne, Ingrid, Graham were all great hosts and it was so nice to meet really lovely people who genuinely cared for their guests. The place itself is situated right on the waters edge and has... More

we had the pleasure of spending two nights at solitaire lodge and the only downside is we spent too little time there. it's rare to find a place that offers a gorgeous setting, impeccable accommodations, world-class dining and great service. solitaire has them all. proprietor wayne tomlinson loves what he does and he loves doing it there. that shows in... More

A spectacular location for the lodge perched above the lake. Our gorgeous room was a delightful mixture of elegant and cosy, very spacious with everything we needed. In the morning I lay in bed and looked at the almost 180 degree view through the bank of windows. Very restful. Sitting on our terrace in the evening with a glass of... More

Stayed for a week in this Gem of a spot. Days were hosted by the owners, and evenings by "Graham". Meals are a true feast and draw from local farms and suppliers. Wine list features NZ vintages and Graham always had a terrific suggestion. We loved the personalized menu we received each evening--given over during cocktail hour on the patio... More

My new husband and I cannot stop thinking of our days at Solitaire, even two months later. There were so many diversions both in an outside the room (we wandered the grounds, of course, went boating, just sat in the gardens, and of course availed ourselves of the helipad), and the gracious hosts were just the perfect balance of creative... More

On a two-week tour of North and South Island, my wife and I began following an overnight in Auckland at Solitaire Lodge in Rotorua. The service, hospitality, the tremendous included evening cuisine along with predinner drinks and canapés were absolutely outstanding. The location affords an opportunity to get out on the lake, do some hiking, hot thermal baths, or nothing.... More

I am an experienced international travel guide and have stayed all around New Zealand. Solitaire Lodge is one of the best to sample and a way to understand the beauty of this amazing country – AO TEA ROA. Comfort and wildness, eco and adventure all come together right here! The best service, from outstanding room views, to the fantastic dinner.

I can't fault this lodge, Ingrid and Wayne are charming subtle hosts. They listen, which speaks volumes. Rooms are spacious with stunning views, subtle touches. Beautifully presented food by their resident asian chef will delight the pallet. Nature is your playground and you can immerse yourself in her beauty here. If you are looking to switch off and unwind with... More

We spent 4 nights at Solitaire Lodge over the New Year period, and we had a wonderful time. The hotel was our base for exporing the Rotorua area and it is very well located from that perspective - close to the main sights, but away from the sulphur smells, and in an incredibly beautiful location on Lake Tarawera. Our room... More