Treetops Lodge & Estate

Treetops Lodge & Estate: eco-luxury and adventure in the heart of the North Island

Treetops Lodge & Estate is a five-star property located in Rotorua, in the central North Island of New Zealand. The complex spans approximately 2,500 acres of protected native forest, rolling hills and private farmland, and presents itself as a luxury retreat immersed in nature. The property is less than a 20-minute drive from Rotorua and about 50 minutes from Taupō. Access from Auckland requires around a three-hour drive (approximately 240 km south) or a 45-minute flight to Rotorua Airport (ROT), followed by a 25-minute drive. The company offers private transfers and the area is well served by car rental services.

Accommodation: villas, suites and forest-integrated stays

The accommodation offering includes lodge rooms, a suite and 13 private villas. The villas are built with native timber felled and milled on the estate itself, and incorporate high energy-efficiency standards: enhanced insulation, double glazing, heat recovery and a location that respects the site's ecological and archaeological features. Each villa has a private terrace, fireplace and direct access to trails, lakes and streams. The ensemble combines wood, stone and natural materials in keeping with the landscape.

Estate experiences: nature, adventure and hunting

Within the property, guests can take part in guided and self-guided activities across more than 2,500 acres of forest and farmland. The offering includes guided native forest walks, horseback riding, trout fishing in streams, 4WD safaris, wildlife viewing and trophy hunting in managed areas. Fly fishing experiences, helifishing, hiking, mountain biking, helicopter safaris and excursions around Rotorua are also offered. The estate features trails, lakes, streams and designated hunting areas.

Forest spa and estate-to-table dining

The spa and wellness treatments take place in a setting of native trees and include private jacuzzis and massages. The complex's restaurant follows an estate-to-table philosophy based on seasonal produce, game and regional New Zealand flavours. The dining experience is presented as part of the stay and linked to the local environment.

History and conservation: the John Sax project

Treetops Lodge & Estate was conceived by John Sax, who since childhood imagined creating a private natural sanctuary. In 1986 he began acquiring land near Rotorua and started a restoration process with the replanting of native trees, the creation of wetlands and the protection of wildlife habitats. In 2001 the complex opened as a boutique hotel and was presented as one of the few luxury eco-lodges conceived, designed and owned by New Zealanders. The company states it has received international recognition, including its consideration as a five-star property in Rotorua and as one of New Zealand's leading luxury lodges. The conservation of native wildlife and habitat restoration are described as a central part of the project.

Kinloch Manor & Villas: a second associated property

Guests can combine their stay at Treetops with that of Kinloch Manor & Villas, a sister property located on the outskirts of Taupō, overlooking Lake Taupō. This second option includes championship golf, fine dining and guest facilities. The joint offering encompasses geothermal landscapes, forests, rivers, trout fishing and luxury accommodation in the central North Island.

Rotorua and the surroundings: geothermal activity, Māori culture and adventure

The city of Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity, with geysers, mud pools, hot springs and volcanic landscapes. It is also one of the cultural centres of the Māori people, where visitors can experience traditional performances, stories and indigenous cuisine. The region also offers outdoor activities such as mountain biking, ziplining, white-water rafting and scenic helicopter flights.

Services for groups and celebrations

The complex offers options for corporate retreats, team meetings, conferences and weddings. The offering includes themed packages such as adventure, wellness, nature, golf and family getaways, or longer stays with the third night free, according to the catalogue shown on the website.