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HOTEL OVERVIEW

You know what? I was honestly skeptical when I first pulled up to 173 Lake Terrace – the building looks pretty standard from the street, and you’re thinking “this is supposed to be lakefront?” But then you walk into Unit 2 and suddenly you get it. The entire back wall is basically floor-to-ceiling windows facing Lake Taupo, and I mean, the view just hits you. No other buildings blocking it, no weird angles – just pure lake stretching out toward those volcanic peaks.

The spa pool is actually what sold me on this place, and it’s positioned perfectly on the deck where you can soak while watching the lake. I spent way too many evenings out there with a wine from the local Woolworths (there’s one about five minutes down Lake Terrace if you need supplies). The unit itself feels properly lived-in rather than sterile hotel-room clean – there’s a full kitchen that actually has decent knives and cookware, which honestly surprised me. The bedroom faces the lake too, so you wake up to that view every morning. Fair warning though: if you’re a light sleeper, the hot water cylinder makes some noise around 6 AM, but it’s not terrible.

What I really appreciated was how quiet this strip of Lake Terrace stays, even during peak summer season. You’re literally a three-minute walk from the main lakefront path where everyone jogs and cycles, but the unit feels tucked away from all that activity. The thermal pools at AC Baths are maybe a ten-minute stroll if you want the full Taupo hot springs experience, though honestly, the private spa pool here might be all you need. Parking is right there behind the building – no hunting around the streets like you do closer to town center. The whole setup just works really well if you want that lakefront experience without dealing with the touristy chaos around Tongariro Street. I’ve stayed in Taupo probably six times now, and this spot definitely gets the balance right between location and actually being able to relax.