Kauri Cliffs - Matauri Bay

Solitaire Lodge is situated on a private, secluded peninsular on the shores of beautiful Lake Tarawera, its elevated position provides spectacular views across the Lake to the grandeur of Mount Tarawera. Like a gem, Solitaire Lodge well complements its setting and is recognised as one of New Zealand's foremost luxury lodges.

The Lodge is designed to take advantage of the natural views of the calm still waters of the Lagoon and the contrasting panorama over the lake to Mount Tarawera. The Lodge is beautifully appointed with nine suites beginning with the Solitaire, or Presidential, Suite and offering one of the most famous views to wake up to in New Zealand. Truly . . . Where the Magic Begins. The Solitaire Suite has floor to ceiling picture windows and a large balcony which overlook the crystal clear waters of Lake Tarawera to Mount Tarawera.

The suite is equipped with a mini bar, cd player, separate bedroom with super king size bed, electronic safe, television, tea and coffee making and ironing facilities, bathroom with double spa bath, separate shower, and Crabtree and Evelyn amenities. The other suites all offer outstanding views and a soothing and relaxing atmosphere and similar facilities.

Solitaire Lodge is a drive of about half an hour from Rotorua, three and a half hours from Auckland and five and a half hours from Wellington. Food at the Lodge, presented to enhance the natural flavours, and wine chosen from the best New Zealand vineyards will be prepared for your pleasure and to your requirements in the open kitchen.

Guests share the dining table, where they can accommodate up to 20 guests. Dress for dinner is smart casual. If preferred, dinner and/or breakfast can also be served privately in your suite or if weather permitting on the terrace. The Rotorua district is world famous for its trout fishing and Lake Tarawera consistently yields the largest number of trophy-sized rainbow trout in the Southern Hemisphere.

Solitiaire Lodge has experienced guides to take you above and beyond to some of New Zealand's very special rivers and streams for the ultimate flyfishing experience.

Alternatively the lodge offers a choice of three charter boats. These luxuriously appointed vessels ensure unparalleled comfort on the water. This combined with the knowledgeable local skippers, who will wisk you across the lake to their special fishing spots to catch one of the famous Lake Tarawera Rainbow Trout.

Followed by a visit to Hotwater Beach to unwind and enjoy a superb glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc whilst you savour bathing in the thermal waters. Your skipper can even cook your catch in hot sand of Hotwater Beach. Top off your ultimate fishing experience with a helicopter flight across to White Island, an active volcano off the east coast of the North Island. Fish from the rocks for Kingfish, Hapuka and other superb saltwater fish.

Bring your catch back to the lodge and add an extra course to your gourmet dinner. The Chefs will be delighted to prepare your catch the way that you prefer, including; smoking, sashimi, pate, grilling, frying, and poaching ... you decide. Late model town chauffeured cars and drivers are available for transfers and sightseeing.

The Natural Hotwater Springs are located on the southern side of Lake Tarawera with a constant water temperature of 38 degrees centigrade year-round. Hotwater beach is accessible only by boat and there is a choice of three luxuriously appointed charter boats.