I wasn't sure if I would enjoy Rotorua. "Pooey!" said more than one friend, in reference to the sometimes-sulfurous geothermal parks which are a major attraction of the area. Nonetheless, we had a very enjoyable few days here, and a lot of that was to do with our choice of accommodation: the Hamurana Lodge. Hamurana is outside the main town of Rotorua, set in large grounds dotted with plantings, borders and quirky, clever and humorous sculptures. The building itself is sort of reproduction Victorian, with a large central staircase and lots of spacious common rooms to lounge around in. We were the only guests and our children had the run of the place - we enjoyed the gym, the wii room, the billiards room especially. Our hosts were very attentive and kind, full of advice when it was wanted and always ready to offer us a drink or other refreshment when we returned from our adventures or took up residence in one of the common rooms. The Hamurana has a full service restaurant and the food is especially fine. I really do recommend dinner here even if you choose to stay somewhere else. My husband was full of praise for the eggs at breakfast, which he says were the best he'd ever tasted. They were certanly the freshest - Hamurana keeps its own free range chickens and the staff go on careful egg hunts throughout the grounds each morning. One mild criticism is that I found the food a tiny bit heavy at times, although unfailingly delicious, so perhaps a few offerings for those with smaller appetites? We went on long nature walks, explored all the geothermal parks, where bubbling pools of muck had marvellous names such as "Devil's Cauldron," and were delightfully tourist trapped by the local Maori evening, where the children especially enjoyed the cultural presentation and dancing, and mum especially enjoyed the delicious barbecued food! There is also a good museum in Rotorua. We did not do zorbing (google it) but supposedly this is fun. The staff at Hamurana were very helpful in helping us choose activities. Generally they are deserving of kudos for their level of service. I also recommend getting a massage at the spa - the masseuse is amazing. It vied for the best massage I have ever experienced, holding joint first place with one I received at the Uma Paro in Bhutan. The only reason I could not give absolutely full marks is that the quality of the rooms and bathrooms slightly let down the experience. They were a bit fusty and dated and generally in need of a makeover, and the bathrooms had cheap fixtures and fittings. However it was all quite spacious, so it really depends what is important to you. Overall, I highly recommend the Hamurana. When we were picked up for the Maori evening, a lady in the tourist van remarked with affable envy, "why didn't WE know about this place??" Maybe Hamurana needs to raise its profile, as it certainly deserves the attention.

I am just echoing what other reviewers have to say now- Fred and Alex were such wonderful hosts on this beautiful property in Rotorua. They were so helpful with planning out and booking for our itinerary and very understanding of what we were looking for.

The grounds are perfect for short walks around with the gorgeous garden landscaping, art sculptures scattered throughout, and all the animals! The free-roaming chickens were so entertaining, as were the donkeys, the neighbour's cows, and Sunny the adorable black Labrador. The game room and bar on the main floor is perfect for playing pool over a bottle of wine with some Nat King Cole crooning in the background (there are iPods and docks in the rooms in the common areas). The pool area is also stunning- if only it was warm enough for a swim! Breakfasts were freshly made and sitting on the balcony is a beautiful way to while away dusks and dawns. There is also free wi-fi throughout

The location is a little outside of town (gets you away from that strong smell of sulphur!) but right across the street from the lake and still an easy distance from all the main attractions around Rotorua (zorb balls, maori culture shows, thermal parks etc.). Let Fred and Alex convince to do the Nzone Skydive- that and staying at the Hamurana Lodge were definitely the highlights of our trip!

We spent a few days at the Hamurana and it was a wonderful stay. We really felt welcome and the room was very cosy. The food is excellent as well.

Haumanua Lodge turned out to be an excellent choice for the celebration of our 24th anniversary. Alex & Fred were delightful hosts. They couldn't have done more to make our stay more enjoyable. They really knew the area and suggested beautiul walks near the lodge. Great food from chef Charlie Brown. Excellent spa bath.