Novotel Rotorua Lakeside is a four-star Accor hotel on the Lake Rotorua shoreline, and a safe choice for families and first-time visitors. Its location puts the lake on one side and the town centre on the other, so you can walk to restaurants, the lakefront and the Government Gardens, and reach the Polynesian Spa in a short drive. Accor's loyalty programme and well-known brand give some reassurance on standards, and rooms are typically comfortable with space for families. It suits travellers who prefer a full-service hotel with a pool and on-site dining.
Location and getting around: the lakefront is the draw. From the hotel you can stroll along the lake, walk into the centre for dinner, and join tours that pick up in town. For Te Puia, Wai-O-Tapu and Hobbiton, book a tour with hotel pickup or arrange a taxi or rental car. A short drive takes you to Skyline Rotorua and the Redwoods.
Rooms and facilities: as a Novotel, it offers family-friendly rooms that can sleep several people, which makes it practical for those travelling with children. Request a lake-view room if you want the scenery, and ask about quiet rooms away from the road if you are a light sleeper. The hotel has a restaurant and bar, so you can eat in after a long day, and check whether breakfast is included in your rate.
Who it suits: families, couples and groups who want a modern, comfortable base with a lakeside setting and without the price of a boutique property. It is a mid to upper mid-range choice, with rates rising in summer and holidays. Book early for peak periods, and check parking arrangements if you are driving, as policies and fees vary. Arrival and departure are straightforward: check-in is usually in the afternoon, so if you land early, ask the front desk to hold your luggage and head straight to the lakefront or Kuirau Park. The hotel is also a convenient meeting point for tour coaches, and staff can usually help with booking the Polynesian Spa, Skyline or an evening at Te Pā Tū. Over school holidays and summer weekends, ask about family packages and breakfast bundles.
Why stay here
- ✓Lakefront location
- ✓Restaurant and bar
- ✓Family rooms
- ✓Lake-view rooms
- ✓Air conditioning
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Walk to Eat Streat
- ✓Tour pickup nearby
Good questions
Is the Novotel on the lake?+
Yes, it is on the Lake Rotorua shoreline, with the town centre also within walking distance.
Is it good for families?+
Yes, it offers family-oriented rooms and facilities, and is a common choice for visitors with children.
Can I walk to restaurants?+
Yes, the lakefront and city centre dining are within walking distance.
