Luxury Healing Hotels Tarlton’s Lodge
11 Sullivans Road, 0200 Paihia, New Zealand
HOTEL OVERVIEW
You know what caught me off guard about Tarlton’s Lodge? I expected another cookie-cutter boutique place, but this spot on Sullivans Road actually has character. It’s tucked away from the main Paihia strip — which honestly is a blessing because you’re not dealing with the tourist chaos, but you can still walk to the waterfront in maybe five minutes. The building itself has this understated elegance that doesn’t scream “look at me” like some of the flashier places around town.
The rooms are what really sold me on this place. I mean, sure, it’s a 4-star property so you expect certain things, but the attention to detail here goes beyond the usual stuff. The beds are actually comfortable (not just expensive-looking), and they’ve got these windows that frame the Bay of Islands perfectly — though honestly, even the garden-view rooms are lovely because the landscaping is seriously impressive. What I really appreciated was the noise level, or lack thereof. Paihia can get pretty lively, especially during summer when the cruise ships are coming and going, but Sullivans Road stays quiet. You’ll hear the occasional car, but nothing like the Williams Road area where backpackers are stumbling around at 2 AM.
The staff knows their stuff about the area, which is rarer than you’d think. They steered me toward some great local spots (there’s this little café on Kings Road that doesn’t show up in guidebooks) and actually helped sort out a last-minute Bay cruise when everywhere else was supposedly booked. Check-in was smooth — they’ve got proper parking too, which matters more than people realize when you’re hauling luggage around. I stayed during shoulder season in April, and the pace felt just right. Not dead, but not overwhelmed either. The breakfast area overlooks the gardens, and honestly, sitting there with coffee while planning your day beats rushing around the main tourist strip. That 9.5 rating isn’t inflated marketing nonsense — this place genuinely delivers on what it promises without the pretension you sometimes get at higher-end properties.
HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
Reviews
Staff: 10.0
Comfort: 10.0
Location: 9.8
Free WiFi: 10
Facilities: 9.4
Cleanliness: 9.8
Value for money: 9.2
Ronel from New Zealand (6 June 2025)
We didn't have any breakfast offered, did we miss this. Location was great but we do suggest trimming the hedge a bit so you can actually see the sea view fomr the spa.
What could be improved: The hedge obscured the view
Dani from New Zealand (1 April 2025)
Fantastic location and facilities. Very private and picturesque. The host was absolutely lovely and so helpful! Will definitely be back!
Ray from United States (10 March 2025)
Great view, quiet, hosts were true professionals. Everything you needed was supplied. Fruit, champagne, homemade cookies. Hot tub was excellent as well
What could be improved: Parking was tricky but manageable and they were onsite to help.
Yager from United States (3 March 2025)
Peter and Katelina couldn't be friendlier. The room had everything we needed, a very comfortable bed, and plenty of room for luggage. I very nice sized bathroom as well. We enjoyed the short (but hilly!) walk back and forth from the main part of Paihia. The best part was the little thoughtful touches - fruit when we arrived, drinks in the fridge...
Jake from United States (24 February 2025)
The family that owns this property is wonderful. The property is well maintained. They provide delicious snacks like chocolates, cookies and pringles. They are SO kind and worth spending your time swapping life stories with. House is a 2 min drive to town or 12min walk but up a steep hill.
What could be improved: It was perfect.
Jacqueline from United Kingdom (9 February 2025)
5 stars all round, stunning views over the bay, very comfortable accommodation and hosts were delightful, friendly, helpful and made up extremely welcome, will definitely return
What could be improved: nothing to dislike
Macj from New Zealand (7 February 2025)
Welcoming and helpful owner. Lovely facilities- huge shower, comfy bed and a fabulous view. And the complimentary biscuits and decent coffee were wonderful treats.
What could be improved: Nothing to say here because Tarlton Lodge was delightful, with a touch of luxury. I didn't use the hot tub, so that just might be rectified with another visit.😁
Melanie from United Kingdom (6 February 2025)
Stunning views, excellent and thoughtful hosts, great peaceful location just outside paihia.
What could be improved: Would have loved some deckchairs to sit outside
Jim from United Kingdom (20 January 2025)
Fabulous view. Beautiful setting. Lovely touches.
Robyn from United States (16 January 2025)
Wonderful hosts; great views; very quiet; spa was fantastic; good use of outdoor patio with table etc.; extras including fruit bowl, cookies and chocolates.
What could be improved: If you don’t like firm mattresses, you might find the bed a bit hard.
ROOMS
- Estimated price from: $248. King or Twin Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
- Estimated price from: $248. King or Twin Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
FACILITIES
View:
- Garden view
- Sea view
- View
General:
- Adults only
- Designated smoking area
- Air conditioning
- Non-smoking throughout
- Heating
- Private entrance
- Carpeted
- Soundproof rooms
- Fan
- Ironing facilities
- Non-smoking rooms
- Iron
Kitchen:
- Dining table
- Electric kettle
- Refrigerator
Bathroom:
- Toilet paper
- Towels
- Bath or shower
- Private bathroom
- Toilet
- Free toiletries
- Bathrobe
- Hairdryer
- Shower
Outdoors:
- Outdoor furniture
- Outdoor dining area
- Sun terrace
- Patio
- Terrace
- Garden
Services:
- Daily housekeeping
- Private check-in/check-out
- Luggage storage
- Tour desk
Wellness:
- Hot tub/Jacuzzi
- Spa and wellness centre
Activities:
- Live music/performance Additional charge Off-site
- Tour or class about local culture Additional charge
- Bike tours Additional charge
- Walking tours Additional charge
- Beach
- Water park Off-site
- Snorkelling Additional charge Off-site
- Diving Additional charge Off-site
- Cycling Off-site
- Hiking Off-site
- Canoeing Additional charge Off-site
- Windsurfing Additional charge Off-site
- Billiards Additional charge
- Fishing Additional charge Off-site
- Hot tub
- Golf course (within 3 km) Additional charge
- Tennis court Additional charge Off-site
Living Area:
- Dining area
- Seating Area
Food & Drink:
- Tea/Coffee maker
Accessibility:
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Entire unit located on ground floor
Room Amenities:
- Socket near the bed
- Clothes rack
Languages spoken:
- English
- French
Safety & security:
- Fire extinguishers
- Smoke alarms
- Security alarm
- Key access
- 24-hour security
- Safety deposit box
Media & Technology:
- Blu-ray player
- iPod dock
- Flat-screen TV
- DVD player
- Radio
- TV
Reception services:
- Invoice provided
Most popular facilities:
- Spa and wellness centre
- Non-smoking rooms
- Free parking
- Free WiFi
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
Parking Free private parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed).:
- Accessible parking
Other for your stay:
- Linen
- Wardrobe or closet
- Alarm clock
- Dressing room
HOUSE RULES
Pets:
- Pets are not allowed.
Parties:
- Parties/events are not allowed
Smoking:
- Smoking is not allowed.
Check-in:
- From 14:00 to 21:00
- You'll need to let the property know in advance what time you'll arrive.
Check-out:
- From 08:00 to 10:00
Age restriction:
- The minimum age for check-in is 18
Cancellation/prepayment:
- Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please check what conditions may apply to each option when making your selection.
HOTEL ADDRESS
11 Sullivans Road, 0200 Paihia, New Zealand
Send Us a Message
Fill out the form below, and one of our concierge specialists will get back to you promptly.
