Mercy of Lake Taupo

Gary the owner and Chris the manager/chef are 2 of the kindest souls that make this place worth the journey, they made it feel like home, we had lots of fun and met other people it was an experience to highlight our trip, would definitely recommend the breakfast and the freshly baked cookies!

Our experience at Lake Taupo Lodge was absolutely fantastic! The team has created a wonderful amalgamation of luxury and homeliness. Just one call out, not a negative but something to be aware of, note this is less like a formal hotel and more of a lodge / bed & breakfast. The service was impeccable, with a breakfast catered to our dietary restrictions, our room remade multiple times a day, and lovely advice and chatter in between. The bathrooms are spacious and modern, with beautiful views. The rooms, while slightly older, are super comfortable and spacious. I didn’t want to leave - I felt right at home and so calm with the stunning setting of the lodge.

The location is good and the grounds are beautiful. The chef chris and hostess/coordinator Victoria are wonderful people and do an excellent job. However, the on site owner Gary is a dictator curmudgeon. We occupied 3 rooms for 3 nights and on night #2 we decided to order pizza to be delivered and planned on eating outside on the patio. Gary informed me that no outside food is allowed on the patio, in our rooms, or anywhere on the property. They only offer breakfast and no dinner option. We were also TOLD all lights in the common areas are to be shut down at 9:00 pm, lights off, doors locked…… This is no lodge, grumpy owner, unwritten rules, dated rooms, inoperable tv service, slow internet at best, and not worth the price paid.