Solitaire Lodge
Classic New Zealand luxury lodge — warm hosts, natural bush surroundings, quality local produce, understated design that frames the landscape rather than competing with it. Not ultra-modern or design-forward; more timeless and personal.
Book the early morning private launch to the thermal hot springs — it's a solitary, very special experience before other guests are up
Why It Matters
One of NZ's original luxury lodges with Michelin recognition, full-board all-inclusive tariff, a genuinely remote private peninsula on a volcanic lake, and rainbow trout fishing where the catch can go straight to the kitchen.
Solitaire Lodge sits on a private peninsula jutting into Lake Tarawera, with Mount Tarawera's dormant volcanic crater filling the horizon. It is New Zealand's second-oldest luxury lodge — only Huka Lodge in Taupo predates it — and that history shows in the confidence of the operation. Nine suites, all full board, all with floor-to-ceiling lake views. The proportions are intimate enough that the owners know your name within an hour of arrival.
Where You'll Stay
5 room types available
Eat & Drink
1 venue on property
Restaurant
Spa & Wellness
Treatment Menu
On Property
How you'll actually spend your days.
Private 4WD vehicle to the base then hike to the 1,111m summit of Mount Tarawera. An alternative to the helicopter for those who prefer a ground-level approach to the crater.
Guided e-bike experience through geothermal landscapes, lake shores and native forests in the Rotorua area.
Scenic helicopter flight over the volcanic landscape with a landing on the summit crater of Mount Tarawera. Operated with Volcanic Air.
Approximately 1 hour from the lodge. The Hobbiton set near Matamata is a popular day excursion the lodge can assist in arranging.
Another popular day excursion the lodge can arrange; roughly 1.5–2 hours drive from Lake Tarawera.
Complimentary use of lodge kayaks and motorised dinghies for exploring the lake, discovering secluded private bays, deep water swimming and shoreline trails directly from the lodge grounds.
Private boat excursion jigging and trolling through proven fishing grounds on Lake Tarawera. Gear, tackle, and lunch included in guide price. Trout over 5kg are not uncommon (average over 2kg). Jetty-based fishing also available. If you catch something, the kitchen will cook it for you.
A 3-hour guided hike through native bush to the 65-metre Tarawera Falls, with natural swimming pools along the route. Reachable by private boat from the lodge.
A 15-minute private launch excursion from the lodge jetty to the natural hot springs of Lake Tarawera. One of the most memorable experiences at the lodge — guests often go at dawn for a solitary soak.
Amenities & Practical Info
The details that matter for planning.
One Executive Suite has an accessible bathroom and ground-level entry.
Main lounge and bar area with views toward Mount Tarawera. Pre-dinner drinks and canapes served here from 7pm daily.
Deck with views over the lake and Mount Tarawera — where light lunches are served.
Lodge hosts personally arrange activities, transfers, experiences and dining preferences.
The lodge sits on a private peninsula on Lake Tarawera, surrounded by native bush on three sides.
Lodge has its own jetty providing direct lake access for boats, fishing, and thermal spring excursions.
On-site helipad for helicopter experiences departing directly from the lodge.
All suites include a complimentary stocked mini bar with local snacks, housemade baking, fresh fruit, tea and coffee, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks. Pre-dinner alcoholic drinks are included; additional alcoholic beverages beyond the tariff are billed separately.
BUILD YOUR SOLITAIRE LODGE PLAN
Rooms, dining, spa, and resort experiences — organized into one trip plan.
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