Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 07-378 4222;
www.thelakeonline.co.nz
;
63 Mere Rd; d $130-200; )
A reminder that 1960s and '70s
design wasn't all Austin Powers-style groovaliciousness, this distinctive boutique motel is
crammed with furniture from the era's signature designers. The four one-bedroom units all
have kitchenettes and dining-living areas, and everyone has use of the pleasant garden out
back.
Waitahanui Lodge
( 07-378 7183, 0800 104 321;
www.waitahanuilodge.co.nz
;
116 SH1, Waitahanui; d $119-179; )
Ten kilo-
metres south of Taupo, this enclave of genuine retro bach-style units are ideally positioned
for swimming, fishing and superb sunsets. Pick of the bunch are the two absolute-lake-
front units, but all have lake access, sociable communal areas plus free rowboat and
kayaks.
MOTEL
$$
Cottage Mews
MAP
MOTEL
$$
GOOGLE MAP
( 07-378 3004, 0800 555 586;
www.cottagemews.co.nz
;
311 Lake Tce, Two Mile Bay; d $115-130, q $150; )
Few motels muster much charm, but this cute gable-roofed block, festooned with hanging
flowers, manages to seem almost rustic. Some units have lake views, most have spa baths
and all have a small private garden. Bikes and kayaks for hire.
Catelli's of Taupo
MAP
MOTEL
$$
GOOGLE MAP
( 07-378 4477, 0800 884 477;
www.catellis.co.nz
;
23-27 Rifle Range Rd; d $135-165, q $230; )
The ex-
terior is all hobbitish '80s curves, sloping roofs and nipple-pink trim, but these orderly
motel units have a fresh feel inside. In summer it's worth paying extra for a garden studio.
Beechtree Suites
MAP
MOTEL
$$
GOOGLE MAP
( 0800 233 248, 07-377 0181;
www.beechtreemotel.co.nz
;
56 Rifle Range Rd; apt $145-380; )
The
Beechtree offers classy rooms, fresh and modern in design with neutral-toned decor, large
windows, ground-floor patios and upstairs balconies.
Acacia Cliffs Lodge
( 07-378 1551;
www.acaciacliffslodge.co.nz
; 133 Mapara Rd, Acacia Bay; d $700; )
This luxurious
B&B, high above Acacia Bay, offers four comtemporarily and artfully designed suites,
B&B
$$$
