The Reef Resort, Taupo - Reviews, Rooms Options & Prices 2026

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Key details

About the Resort

219 Lake Terrace, Taupo, New Zealand

Near Lake Taupo

Perfect

9.1

9.3

/10

4.7

Loved by The Reef Resort guests

Amazing view
Warm pool
Clean rooms
Attentive staff

"The pool is fantastic, perfect temp, the grounds were immaculate and the resort itself (and the room) were really clean."

Layne L from New Zealand

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"The managers are lovely. Very helpful, very kind, providing great service."

Samantha from New Zealand

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"Beautiful heated pool out back with access to the beachfront through a private gate."

Emily from United States

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Accommodation

The Reef Resort offers a selection of spacious apartments and studios with fully equipped kitchens including full-size fridge/freezers, stovetops, and dishwashers. Luxury apartments feature three ensuites, with the main bedroom ensuite showcasing a bath. Many units have large private balconies with outdoor seating, providing direct views of Lake Taupo and the mountains.

Wellness

The hotel features a pool area with a heated freshwater pool maintained at approximately 36°C year-round and a naturally heated thermal spa pool kept at around 40°C. Guests can enjoy poolside relaxation with outdoor furniture and sun loungers available. Bathrobes are provided in all rooms for added comfort while enjoying the pool facilities.

Location

Situated directly on the shores of Lake Taupo, the hotel offers unimpeded access to the lake with no road between the property and water. Guests can easily partake in various activities such as kayaking, fishing trips, or cruises to see the Māori rock carvings. Additionally, the hotel is within proximity to the Huka Falls and the serene natural hot springs along the river.

Family-Friendly Amenities

The Reef Resort provides family accommodations with options including two- and three-bedroom units, making it suitable for groups or families. Each apartment includes multiple ensuites, fostering convenience for families. The hotel supports children's activities with easy access to outdoor adventures on Lake Taupo.

Dining Options

The hotel offers a room service breakfast menu with both continental and cooked options for guests to enjoy in the comfort of their apartments. Breakfast deliveries can be arranged at the time most convenient for guests. While there is no onsite restaurant, various local dining options are available for lunch and dinner.

Highlights

Location: directly on the shores of Lake Taupo

Rooms: spacious apartments and studios with kitchen facilities

Wellness: heated freshwater pool and thermal spa pool

Family-Friendly: two- and three-bedroom units for families

“The Reef Resort stands out for its access to Lake Taupo. I appreciate the extra touches, like in-room breakfast, and the thermal water hot tub really clinches its appeal. While it's a little removed from the town center, the trade-off is a relaxed, scenic environment.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Toresort

Location: Perfect

9.5/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Sports & FitnessTennis Aces!

The tennis court was excellent, so well maintained! We had a great time playing every day on pristine surfaces.

Oliver from Australia

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Guest ParkingParking Peace!

Free, secure parking right outside the door! So convenient for unloading luggage and exploring the area by car.

Mei from China

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DiningFoodie Heaven

The on-site restaurant blew us away. A wonderful menu featuring locally sourced ingredients made it a highlight.

Isabelle from France

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Room FeaturesLakeview Bliss

Our room had fantastic lake views! We enjoyed waking up to the scenery every morning.

Rajesh from India

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Select your room type

The Reef Resort offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

One-Bedroom Apartment

2 persons

410 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Studio

2 persons

280 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Studio Lake View

2 persons

295 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

One-Bedroom Apartment Lake View

2 persons

485 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The Reef Resort offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.3/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
Express check-in/ -out
Concierge desk
No pets allowed
Security
Luggage storage
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Canoeing
Horseback riding
Cycling
Bowling
Golf course
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Free airport shuttle
Housekeeping
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Grocery shopping service
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Outdoor dining area
Picnic area/ Tables

Business

Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Babysitting/Child services

Spa & Leisure

Plunge pool
Heated swimming pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Jacuzzi

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Washing machine
Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Bedroom

Electric blankets

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

The Reef Resort Location

219 Lake Terrace, Taupo, New Zealand

Map view

219 Lake Terrace, Taupo, New Zealand

City landmarks

Landmark

Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort

1.3 mi

Golf Course

Hole in One Taupo

1.3 mi

Landmark

Maori Rock Carvings

1.3 mi

Landmark

Warm Water Lake

3400 ft

Landmark

Waipahihi Botanical Gardens

1.3 mi

Landmark

Great Lake Taupo

1.3 mi

Landmark

Hot Water spring

2200 ft

Church

Taupo Baptist Church

2200 ft

Landmark

Kayaking

2200 ft

Landmark

Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs

1.3 mi

Landmark

Hot Water Beach

2400 ft

Landmark

Lake Taupo

1.5 mi

Landmark

Taupo Hot Springs

3700 ft

Landmark

New Apostolic Church

4400 ft

Park

Taupo Botanical Gardens

1.3 mi

Landmark

Faith Baptist Church

4500 ft

Landmark

Candyland

4600 ft

Landmark

Joan Williamson Rose Garden

1.3 mi

Park

Tongariro North Domain

1.6 mi

Landmark

The Salvation Army

5100 ft

Landmark

Open Christian Fellowship

5100 ft

Landmark

Jolly Good Fellows

1.0 mi

Landmark

Bravado 3

1.0 mi

Museum

Taupo Museum

1.7 mi

Landmark

#LoveTaupo

1.4 mi

Golf Course

Taupo Mini Golf

1.2 mi

Landmark

Saint Pauls Union Church

1.2 mi

Landmark

Taupo Seventh-Day Adventist Church

1.2 mi

Amusement Park

Big Sky Parasail

1.2 mi

Nearby

Hot Water spring

1800 ft

Kayaking

1800 ft

Restaurants

Edgewater Restaurant

1700 ft

243 Lake Terrace Millennium Hotel & Resort

Beach Brasserie

1800 ft

243 Lake Terrace Millennium Hotel and Resort

Explore Taupo

Local Highlights

Maori Rock Carvings

25 minutes' walk

Unique rock carvings on a lake cliff, offering a glimpse into Māori culture. Accessible via boat tours.

Warm Water Lake

13 minutes' walk

Natural hot springs by the lake, ideal for relaxing swims. Enjoy stunning views and warm bathing.

Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs

25 minutes' walk

Thermal pools and spa facilities, perfect for unwinding after a day of activities. Beautifully landscaped surroundings.

Waipahihi Botanical Gardens

25 minutes' walk

Lush gardens featuring native plants and birds, with walking paths and picnic spots. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Kayaking

10 minutes' walk

Guided kayaking tours on Lake Taupo. Ideal for adventure seekers with rental services available nearby.

Hot Water Springs

10 minutes' walk

Relaxing experience in natural hot springs. Bring your own towel and enjoy a soothing soak in the warm water.

Bike Trails

10-minute drive

Extensive bike trails around Lake Taupo, suitable for all skill levels. Rentals and guided tours available.

Edgewater Restaurant

7 minutes' walk

Lakeside views with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Famous for its seafood and hearty Kiwi dishes.

Beach Brasserie

7 minutes' walk

Casual dining atmosphere with a focus on international cuisine. Known for its burgers and vegetarian options.

Taupo Musuem

30 minutes' walk

Cultural hub showcasing local history and art. Family-friendly with interactive exhibits and regular events.

Jolly Good Fellows

20 minutes' walk

Casual pub atmosphere with live music on weekends. Great for a fun night out with friends or family.

Getting around

City Centre

Taupo33 min · 1.7 mi

Airports

Taupo Airport (TUO)8 min · 3.2 mi

Rotorua (ROT)134 min · 55.5 mi

Bus

Bus stop15 min · 4000 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-19:30

Check-out

from 08:00-10:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs NZD 24 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Former name

the reef resort - heritage collection

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Reef Resort from previous guests about their experience

Review score

Based on 331 verified reviews

9.1/10

Perfect

95%

Recommend

Breakfast

3.7/10

Cleanliness

9.5/10

Comfort

9.5/10

Facilities

9.3/10

Free Wi-Fi

9.3/10

Location

9.5/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.4/10

Staff

9.5/10

Value for money

8.9/10

Pros

Heated pool

Comfy bed

Lake location

Welcoming staff

Spa bath

Cons

Traffic noise

Maintenance issues

based on 671 reviews

4.5/5

No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.

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Questions of the users

About The Reef Resort

Is there available parking at the resort for my vehicle, and can it accommodate my boat?

10 November 2024

There is parking available for one vehicle per unit, but unfortunately, there isn't space for boats, jet skis, or caravans.

What breakfast options are available during my stay?

5 January 2025

Breakfast can be delivered to your room each morning from 7:30 to 8:45 AM. A menu is available so you can select your preferred items.

Is there a secure spot to store my bike during my visit?

15 February 2025

While there is no dedicated bike storage, guests can keep bikes in their rooms or on the balcony if booked with one. Please note that access to most rooms involves stairs.

Is it possible to have a late check-in for my arrival?

22 March 2025

Late check-in is permissible, but guests must follow the after-hours check-in procedure. It's best to inform the staff if arriving later than 8 PM.

Can guests enjoy the hotel amenities if they have mobility challenges?

30 April 2025

There is a one-bedroom unit on the reception floor that offers easy access, but some areas, like the pool, do require using stairs. Contact the staff for specific advice.

Are gym facilities available for guests to use during their stay?

28 May 2025

Guests are provided free access to Empower Fitness in Taupo, allowing for a great workout option nearby.

What precautions are in place for secure parking while visiting with trail bikes?

14 June 2024

There are undercover parking spots available, and the property has had no reported thefts. Many guests safely secure their bikes to their vehicles without any issues.

Can guests check in before the standard check-in time?

11 July 2024

Typically, check-in starts at 2 PM, but if requested the day prior, an early check-in may be arranged if the room is ready.

Is smoking allowed in any areas of the property?

22 August 2025

Smoking is only permitted on the balconies. It is not allowed in other areas.

Is there an option for a surprise gift like a bottle of wine upon arrival?

5 September 2024

Special arrangements can be made for surprises like wine or flowers upon arrival; just provide the arrival date and name for the request.

What dining options are nearby the resort for evening meals?

15 October 2024

While there is no on-site restaurant, there are several dining options within a short walking or driving distance, including local cafés and restaurants.