We had a really lovely weeks stay with Stu and Gen who are wonderful welcoming hosts. They have created a very modern, comfortable and clean space to stay in, so much so we could have easily stayed longer.
We loved being so close to this stunning lake, just beautiful, peaceful, with the walkway and boardwalk nearby a must to do. We spotted so many birds near the hide.
You're so handy here to the Blue, Green, and Tarawera lakes too, a prime spot for a break away.
The Whakarewarewa / Redwood Forest is an absolute must. Unfortunately it was too wet for us to experience the Tree Top walk, particularly the night one, but if you love simply being in nature, walking or cycling, this is one stunning, majestic forest to immerse yourself in.
A gem of a find for us was: If you continue right to the end of Longmile Road, passing the forest information centre, you will arrive at the Scion Research Institute and their award winning building which opened January 2021. A snapshot of the diverse research being explored there can be sampled through the hands on display in the magnificent foyer.
Ask at the counter for information on this state of the art building, the structure, the strength of the beautiful glulam beams and their triangular form. Each piece of the architecture has significance, the lighting in the ceiling representing Matariki, the ceiling the DNA of Pinus Radiata, how the building functions in an earthquake. You'll be impressed.
You might spot one the Scion scientists or an MP casually floating around or lunching in the Eastwood Cafe in there. We can recommend the coffee and food and of course the interior design of the cafe makes it a lovely space to be in, including the very acceptable and excellent acoustics.
There's plenty of bubbling mud and hot steaming pools to visit in Rotorua for free if you prefer. Enjoy your stay. We certainly did. So much to do and see, we can't wait to return.