Treetops

Treetops is a traditional hunting/fishing style lodge set remotely in its extensive acres 30 minutes outside Rotorua.  The land around is all native bush and abundant in wildlife.  The lodge itself has a very grand main building where the lounges, kitchen and dining room are located together the a 'lodge wing' of 4 rooms.  This lodge wing is excellent for families who want to be located together and use the common lounge and kitchen area in the lodge wing.

The villas are traditional pavilion style, very spacious and very well appointed.  And the nights are still and peacful.  One night I left my verandah doors wide open to let in the sounds of the bush and was visited by a little guest who plundered my fruit bowl.  A little possum.

Rotorua is a must-see location in New Zealand with its geothermal attractions, and Treetops is an excellent place to see them from.  Wai o Tapu is only a 20-minute drive away, and if your budget runs to helicopters we have tailormade a number of days incorporating scenic helicoptering, lake cruises, hot water pool swims and geothermal hiking.

The lodge is ably managed by an eccentric German, Heiko Kaiser who has brought many of the varied aspects of the lodge under control in the two years he has been there.  The staff are all excellent, the food is delicious and the bushwalks are many.  A word of warning though - the bush around Treetops is not manicured or managed, it's the real thing, so beware of getting lost or taking on slopes and paths beyond your ability.