Hana Lodge

The hotel offers a truly unique and memorable experience, often described as a hidden gem or a luxurious country estate, distinguished by its stunning grounds adorned with quirky sculptures and a serene bamboo forest. This distinctive ambiance makes it an ideal retreat for couples seeking a peaceful getaway and families who enjoy exploring the expansive property and interacting with the resident animals. Guests consistently highlight the attentive and friendly staff and the delicious breakfast as key elements of their stay. The accommodations are frequently praised for their comfort and cleanliness, contributing to a restful experience. To make the most of your visit, guests recommend taking time to wander through the beautiful gardens and considering the hotel's dinner service for a convenient and high-quality meal. For a quieter stay, it is advisable to inquire about room locations to avoid potential noise from high-traffic areas.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests generally appreciate the range of facilities available for relaxation and recreation. The outdoor pool, jacuzzi, and sauna are popular amenities, though some guests noted the pool is not heated, making it too cold for comfortable use outside of warm weather. A fitness center is available, though it is described as basic, featuring a rowing machine and an exercise bike. The convenience of a luggage lift is mentioned for rooms on upper floors. Rooms are typically equipped with a complimentary mini-bar and Wi-Fi, which are well-received. While a games room with a pool table is present, some guests found it lacked proper maintenance, such as missing chalk. The elevator is noted for being small and slow, and some guests experienced issues with its functionality.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The cleanliness of the rooms is consistently praised, with many guests describing them as spotless and meticulously maintained. Comfortable beds with high-quality linens are a recurring highlight, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Rooms are generally found to be spacious and well-appointed, often featuring luxurious toiletries, heated bathroom floors, and coffee makers. Some rooms boast freestanding bathtubs, adding to the sense of luxury. However, noise levels can be an issue for some, particularly in rooms located directly above the kitchen or near the reception area, with thin walls allowing sounds to transfer. A few guests noted outdated showers in certain rooms or minor maintenance issues like squeaky door hinges or gaps in blackout curtains, impacting natural light control. Despite these minor points, the overall room comfort is highly rated.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast service receives widespread acclaim, consistently described as delicious, excellent, and sumptuous. Guests appreciate the variety of options, including cereals, pastries, cold meats, cheeses, and a range of cooked items, with many highlighting the quality of the made-to-order dishes. Dinner feedback is more mixed; while many guests found the food quality to be superb, describing it as fine dining with a top-notch chef, others felt the menu was limited, portions were small, or the price was high for the value received. Some experienced slow service during dinner or issues with drink delivery. The high tea offering, however, garnered significant negative feedback, with guests expressing disappointment over the quality, freshness, and presentation, noting it did not match advertised descriptions. The bar is described as basic and tends to close early.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a significant draw, set within beautiful grounds that offer a peaceful retreat away from the bustle and geothermal smells of Rotorua. Guests appreciate the quiet ambiance and the stunning views of the lake and rolling hills. While it requires a 10-20 minute drive to reach Rotorua's city center and main attractions, this distance is often seen as a benefit for those seeking tranquility. The property offers ample parking, making it convenient for guests traveling by car. However, some guests noted the presence of steps leading to the front door, which could pose an accessibility challenge, and the large population of wild rabbits on the property was occasionally mentioned as a road hazard. Overall, the secluded yet accessible setting is highly valued for its serene environment.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel consistently receive glowing reviews, with guests frequently highlighting their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many describe the team as professional and welcoming, going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. The quick check-in process is appreciated, and staff are commended for accommodating requests, such as room upgrades or specific dietary needs. Instances of staff celebrating special occasions for guests are also noted, adding a personal touch. While the majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few reviews mentioned perceptions of the hotel being understaffed at times, leading to slower service in some areas, particularly dining, or a perceived lack of authority for some team members to resolve issues. Despite these isolated comments, the dedication to excellent service is a strong theme.

Additional Information
The hotel features distinctive art installations and sculptures throughout its beautiful grounds, including a notable bamboo forest that offers picturesque walking opportunities. Guests often enjoy observing the wild animals such as rabbits, llamas, and cows on the property. However, the presence of caged birds on the premises is a point of concern for some guests, who expressed discomfort regarding their welfare and suitability within the natural setting. The property is a recently renovated establishment, which contributes to its fresh and elegant appearance. Some guests noted that the bar closing time is early, and there is no lunch service available on-site. Additionally, specific rooms, particularly those located under the kitchen, can experience noise disturbances in the early morning.