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Ponga Lodge

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Ponga Lodge

Lake Tarawera, Bay of Plenty


Ponga Lodge is set only minutes away from the edge of Lake Tarawera and 24 minutes from Rotorua.

The safari tent is set in a sheltered spot with a ponga forest to the rear and breathtaking views over Lake Tarawera to the front.

The interior of the tent features a super-king bed with a dual electric blanket. There's comfortable lounge seating and cosy rugs. The decor is simple and stylish - and the soft glow of the overhead lantern light gives a lovely ambiance and warmth. Cosiness is also a priority! There are two instant heat infrared heaters. One is placed inside the tent, ensuring a snug atmosphere and another in our undercover dining/kitchen area guaranteeing warmth and comfort as you dine and relax.

The undercover kitchen and dining area are equipped with everything you need to make a delicious meal. A luxury stoked hot tub bath, with instant hot water, is set on the large deck -looking out to the lake. The bathroom, clad with rustic reclaimed wood is accessible via an automatically-lit decked walkway.

Surrounded by nature, you're likely to see fantails, tuis, kereru, and morepork owls perched in the bushes. You may even hear the distant roar of a deer in Autumn. On a clear night, you'll be treated to breathtaking crystal-clear starlit skies.

Includes a Double Kayak

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Ponga Lodge is self-catering. Just bring your own food, and cook meals using the Weber Q BBQ, single induction hob and mini oven/air fryer. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you'd like to dine out, Rotorua is only 25 minutes away and offers a diverse range of restaurants. For nearby options, you can check out The Landing Cafe for brunch, or Eastwood, which serves pizza, burgers, and beer. In town, you'll find Eat Streat, an undercover dining hub with numerous al fresco options available year-round. Another great option is Capers, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as an artisanal and organic food shop next door.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Rotorua, 25 minutes. A few takeaway shops are 15 minutes away at the bottom of Tarawera Road.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Stay cosy on cooler days by snuggling up with a movie (Netflix available), playing board games, and turning on the electric heater.

On a fine day, you have the great outdoors to explore. Enjoy the stunning bush on the property or visit Stoney Point beach - just a quick 2-minute stroll from the property. Go swimming, or try kayaking, and fishing with the boats and rods provided (be sure to try catching the famous rainbow trout from the jetty!).

The area is also home to several walking tracks and a public tennis court, as well as fallow deer and sheep that you can feed and pet.

During your stay, we want to ensure you have the opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Lake Tarawera to the fullest. We're excited to share that you can arrange for the Tarawera Water Taxi service, which offers a unique journey to the other side of the lake. Once there, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rejuvenating experience of bathing in the natural hot pools. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this option promises an unforgettable addition to your stay. When you make your reservation we will provide a link so that you can book this experience if desired.

If you're interested in learning more about the area's rich history, be sure to visit The Buried Village of Te Wairoa, which offers a glimpse into the volcanic eruption of 1886 and the local Tarawera history. Additionally, the team at Totally Tarawera provides a water taxi service for lake excursions to hot water beaches, the Tarawera Falls Walk, and pick-up and drop-off services for the famous Tarawera Trail.

To relax and unwind, guests can visit the nearby Hell's Gate Geothermal Park and Mud Bath Spa or the Polynesian Spa for a rejuvenating beauty spa and massage. For adventure seekers, The Redwoods Treewalk, located just a 20-minute drive away, and White Water Rafting are great options. And don't forget to check out Te Puia, which features the famous Pohutu Geyser that spouts boiling water up to 30 metres into the air, as well as other natural geothermal wonders.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Ponga Lodge are David and Angela who live at Lake Tarawera, along with their son, Ben, and dog, Spencer.

David and Angela first met in the UK in 1989 when Dave, a West Otago boy, was on his big O.E - and it was love at first sight! After marrying in 1990, they returned to New Zealand to work on the family farm in Otago. Eight years and two children later, career opportunities enticed them to the UK. They returned to New Zealand to Tarawera in 2017.

Captivated by the area's breathtaking lake and mountain views, lush green landscapes, and diverse wildlife - David and Angela decided to embark on visitor accommodation. They created Jack's Hut, a 1930's shepherd's hut from the family farm in West Otago, before establishing Ponga Lodge in early 2023, which has quickly become a popular addition.

The name 'Ponga Lodge' was inspired by the stunning ponga forest located directly behind the accommodation.

TESTIMONIALS

“ We had the most beautiful stay at Ponga Lodge. The view of the lake was unbelievable, and we loved the thoughtful touches like a mat and towel for our dog. The bath looking out over the lake was a highlight, even in the middle of winter. We’d highly recommend and look forward to coming back again. Thank you. ”

Lizzie Speedy-Willis- 2025-06-25

20 / 20

“ A great spot tucked up on the edge of the bush, very private with a lovely outlook. Lovely glamping vibes, while also providing many extra creature comforts to make it just that bit more special. ”

Sharleen Buchanan- 2026-05-24

1 / 20

“ Very comfortable accommodation, even with inclement weather. Waking up to the sound of birds was extremely relaxing. ”

Tom Druery- 2026-05-09

2 / 20

“ Amazing view over the lake and volcanos. Very responsive, helpful host. ”

Nicky Browne- 2026-02-15

3 / 20

“ Great location, remote and just had everything we needed some Nice touches that made you feel like you were on an actual safari. ”

Riahna Crooke- 2026-01-31

4 / 20

“ Absolutely loved our stay. Hosts were amazing and super friendly. The tent has everything you need and held up very well in the thunderstorm we had overnight. The views are breathtaking. 11/10. ”

Jake Georgiou- 2026-01-20

5 / 20

“ Beautiful setting, Ponga Lodge has everything you could want for a weekend break. ”

Rachel Tod- 2025-12-09

6 / 20

“ We stayed three nights at Ponga Lodge, rather than staying in Rotorua itself, and it was a great decision. The view of the lake, even whilst having a shower, was amazing, and the lodge was very comfortable. We would definitely stay here again if we are in the area. ”

Michael Harwar- 2025-11-30

7 / 20

“ Great place to stay! ”

Olivia Hooker- 2025-11-28

8 / 20

“ We loved our two nights and would have loved to have stayed longer. So quiet, so comfy, and the view! The hot tub was amazing, and Maria and Spencer (the GSP) were a pleasure to meet. We would definitely go back again. ”

Carina Chambers- 2025-11-17

9 / 20

“ We had a lovely peaceful stay at Ponga Lodge. ”

Amy Heise- 2025-11-10

10 / 20

“ We left feeling very relaxed and the environment was just lovely! Just what we needed for a child-free recharge! ”

Chanae Tynan- 2025-10-24

11 / 20

“ We spent three nights at Ponga Lodge and loved every moment. The facilities were excellent, communication was spot on, and the view was absolutely stunning. Our only regret was not staying longer. ”

Dale Biddle- 2025-10-20

12 / 20

“ The large "stoked" stainless hot tub was amazing for a soak after coming home cold from the lake in the middle of winter. ”

Ian Troughton- 2025-09-24

13 / 20

“ ”

Simon Debelle- 2025-09-23

14 / 20

“ Angela and Dave were the best hosts! They made us feel welcome and responded to any communication quickly. The facilities were fantastic, and we could not have asked for anything more. Highly recommended and would stay there again. ”

Sally-Anne Plewis- 2025-09-15

15 / 20

“ Lovely setting and helpful friendly hosts. ”

Mike Moffatt- 2025-08-22

16 / 20

“ Absolutely thoroughly enjoyed the location. Views were fantastic. Bath was a bonus and the company was outstanding. ”

Mike Saunders- 2025-08-05

17 / 20

“ Ponga Lodge is gorgeous. It was just what we needed for a reset in nature. It was very cold (as expected), but there were plenty of heating options to keep cosy and warm. We had everything we needed and could’ve stayed longer. Highly recommend checking it out. ”

Arpége Taratoa- 2025-07-05

18 / 20

“ Lovely hosts. ”

Fiona Pickett- 2025-06-27

19 / 20

“ We had the most beautiful stay at Ponga Lodge. The view of the lake was unbelievable, and we loved the thoughtful touches like a mat and towel for our dog. The bath looking out over the lake was a highlight, even in the middle of winter. We’d highly recommend and look forward to coming back again. Thank you. ”

Lizzie Speedy-Willis- 2025-06-25

20 / 20

“ A great spot tucked up on the edge of the bush, very private with a lovely outlook. Lovely glamping vibes, while also providing many extra creature comforts to make it just that bit more special. ”

Sharleen Buchanan- 2026-05-24

1 / 20

Scenic coastal landscape viewed through a golden tent opening, showing lush green hillside with forest line meeting turquoise ocean waters under clear blue sky

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