Sudima Lake Rotorua

This hotel offers a prime location right by Lake Rotorua, making it a memorable choice for guests, especially those seeking scenic views and easy access to local attractions. Its signature feature is its direct proximity to the Polynesian Spa and the vibrant town center, appealing greatly to sightseers and holidaymakers eager to explore. While many guests appreciate the dedicated and friendly staff, the hotel's overall condition and ongoing renovations are frequently noted, impacting the experience. The pervasive sulphur smell inherent to Rotorua is an unavoidable aspect of the stay, present both outside and sometimes within the hotel. To enhance your visit, consider requesting a room with a lake view and inquire about the status of any ongoing construction or facility closures upon booking.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities, though guest experiences are mixed, particularly regarding the swimming pool, which is frequently mentioned as being closed for maintenance or renovations, or described as small and cold when available. Wi-Fi connectivity is a significant point of concern for many, often reported as weak, unreliable, or completely non-functional in certain areas, posing challenges for guests needing to stay connected or work remotely. On the positive side, parking is generally ample and convenient, though its distance from some rooms or impact from construction can be a minor inconvenience. The lobby and bar areas are often described as pleasant spaces for relaxation. Some guests also noted the availability of laundry facilities, adding to convenience, while EV chargers were present but frequently reported as non-operational.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is varied. While some found their rooms clean and comfortable, many described them as dated, tired, or in need of significant refurbishment, with issues like stained carpets, peeling paint, and worn decor. The bathrooms are a frequent point of criticism, often cited as old, shabby, or requiring upgrades, with common complaints including mold, rust, inconsistent shower water temperature (fluctuating between scalding and freezing), and water spilling onto the floor due to short glass shields. Despite these issues, the beds are generally reported as comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep for most. Noise from corridors, main roads, and other guests can be disruptive, particularly for rooms near high-traffic areas or coach pick-up points. In-room amenities like kitchenware, reading lamps, and functional fridges or safes were sometimes found lacking.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive mixed but generally positive feedback. The breakfast buffet is a highlight for many guests, often praised for its good quality, extensive spread, and variety, including options like barista coffee and well-prepared scrambled eggs. However, some found the breakfast to be overpriced or of lower quality than expected for a hotel of this caliber. Dinner experiences at the restaurant are also varied; while some guests enjoyed delicious meals such as butter chicken, steak, and soup, others found the selection limited, food undercooked, or not hot enough. The bar area is noted for its pleasant atmosphere and good cocktails, with staff often accommodating late requests. Room service is available, though some guests reported issues with responsiveness or the availability of certain items like bottled water.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, placing guests within easy walking distance of Rotorua's town center, various shops, restaurants, and the popular Eat Street. Its direct proximity to the Polynesian Spa and the beautiful Lake Rotorua is a significant draw, with many rooms offering scenic lake views. Key attractions like the Government Gardens are also easily accessible on foot. While the pervasive sulphur smell from the geothermal activity is an inherent part of the Rotorua experience and is noticeable outside the hotel, it is generally accepted as part of the local ambiance. Parking is widely available and often free, though some guests noted that parking areas could be a distance from their rooms, or impacted by ongoing construction. Some buildings within the complex lack elevators, which can be an accessibility challenge for guests with mobility concerns.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently commend their attentive service, willingness to assist with requests, and overall positive demeanor, contributing significantly to a welcoming atmosphere. The check-in process receives mixed reviews; while some found it quick and efficient, others experienced long waits or issues with rooms not being ready upon arrival, occasionally accompanied by uninformative or indifferent responses from the front desk. Housekeeping is generally described as responsive and thorough, with staff often accommodating requests for extra towels or addressing basic needs. However, some guests reported inconsistencies in room servicing or delayed responses to specific in-room issues. Overall, the staff's commitment to providing a positive guest experience is a recurring theme, despite some operational challenges.

Additional Information
A significant aspect of the hotel experience is the ongoing renovation and construction work, which is frequently mentioned by guests. This work, sometimes related to earthquake strengthening, can lead to construction noise and the closure of facilities like the swimming pool, which may not always be communicated upfront. Guests should be aware that the hotel's overall appearance and some room interiors are described as dated or tired, reflecting its age despite partial renovations. The pervasive sulphur smell from the surrounding geothermal area can sometimes be noticeable inside rooms, with a few guests reporting respiratory discomfort. Some guests noted an unadvised credit card surcharge during payment. The hotel's layout is described as a large, somewhat confusing complex with multiple blocks, and some buildings lack elevators. A benefit for guests is the availability of discounts for the Polynesian Spa, located conveniently next door.