Ramada Resort By Wyndham Rotorua Marama

HOTEL OVERVIEW

Honestly, when I first pulled up to the Ramada Resort on Hamurana Road, I wasn’t expecting much – you know how these chain hotels can be. But this place actually surprised me in the best way. It’s tucked away about 10 minutes from central Rotorua, which means you’re far enough from the tourist crowds but close enough that you’re not stuck in the middle of nowhere. The location is pretty clever actually – you get that lake district vibe without paying lake-front prices, and the drive into town is scenic enough that you don’t mind it.

What really got me was how they’ve managed to feel like a proper resort without being pretentious about it. The property sprawls out nicely with these low-rise buildings that don’t fight with the landscape, and there’s actually space to breathe between everything. The pool area becomes the heart of the place during summer – I mean, it’s nothing fancy, but it works, and the kids love it while parents can actually relax nearby. The rooms are larger than you’d expect for the price point, with that slightly dated but comfortable feel that says “we care more about your sleep than impressing you with trendy furniture.” Air conditioning works well too, which matters more than you’d think during those humid Rotorua summers.

Here’s the thing though – the real win is the staff. Check-in was smooth, parking is free and plentiful (which saves you the headache of downtown Rotorua’s parking situation), and they actually know the area well enough to give you solid recommendations. When I asked about avoiding the crowds at Te Puia, the front desk guy knew exactly when to go and which entrance to use. The restaurant on-site is decent for breakfast – nothing revolutionary, but fresh and filling, and honestly after a day of hiking around Redwoods or soaking in hot pools, you just want something reliable. Location-wise, you’re perfectly positioned for day trips. Hamurana Springs is practically next door, the Redwoods are a quick drive, and you can hit Rainbow Springs or Skyline without dealing with city traffic. The 8.8 rating makes sense to me – it’s not trying to be luxury, but it delivers solidly on what most travelers actually need: comfort, convenience, and value. If you’re planning to spend your days exploring rather than lounging at the hotel, this place gives you a great base without breaking the budget.