My stay at the Pullman Rotorua was one of those stays where everything just works. It is located centrally in town. It’s far enough from the center of tourist action but still within walking distance of everything you’d want to do in Rotorua.
Most impressive is how polished the entire operation feel. It is not stuffy, but it makes checking in, settling into your room, and getting your work done feel effortless. The room, the lobby, and all those little thing that make a difference when choosing accommodations for your trip; this is my review.
I’m going to share what it was realy like there but also include some pictures of what I saw in case you want to know what it’s realy like. I took so many pics…because I wanted to remember the feel of it all. As soon as I walked in the lobby I felt like this was a hotel that had its shit together.
My Stay at the Pullman Rotorua
Pullman Rotorua
There was someone behind the reception desk who was both efficient and friendly, which is always good. Even better was the lounge area immediately beyond it. It had real leather sofa where one might actually sit down and wait in comfort, should such a thing be necessary.
Off to one side there seemed to be a decent-looking bar area, which I never got around to trying.
In the lobby, there are these self check-in kiosks that immediately drew me in. If you’re in a rush, it’s nice to know you can just use them.
I did go up to the desk anyway since I had a question, but it’s nice to know the option is there.
There was also this wall of certificates and awards that just sort of felt corporate, though I guess it’s nice to be reassured that your efforts has been recognized somewhere. They also had this display of bike in the lobby along with signs for renting them out (Rotorua is very bikeable so it made sense). I didn’t rent a bike on this trip, but I appreciated that the option was front and center.
The room is clean and comfortable, and that’s about as much as I expect. There is fresh linen on a firm-but-not-rock-hard bed. There is a nice little set up of thing beside the bed.
The lamp is easy to reach, though I didn’t use the phone. There are also power points with USB charging points exactly where you need them. Digital clock with a clear display (basic, I know, but I’ve been in rooms where it was tiny).
There were thoughtful touches everywhere.
The easy-to-use climate control system had a wall panel I could work out without having to ring down to reception. A TV was neatly installed on a timber panel.
Room branded as usual with Pullman, no frills, just consistency. As you enter the room there is an open wardrobe and luggage bench.
That was actualy far more useful than I thought it would of be.
They left me loads of towels and an iron that functioned well. I enjoyed the little details like the slippers and robe that were already there. These are little thing that make you not feel so rushed when you have to unpack.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much space there was in the seating area. Depending on my mood, I could choose between different seating option. I could read in the woven armchair, or sprawl out after a day of sightseeing on the long upholstered bench or the chaise lounge.
There were also some framed artworks on the wall that prevented it all from being too bland. The floor lamp had good lighting. A fair amount of counter space was taken up by the minibar set-up, which was well organised.
There was a snack tray of crisps, a kettle, glassware and a wine bottle.
Tea and coffee were better than average (the usual sachets, plus proper cups stashed in a drawer). The minibar fridge was fully stocked.
I didn’t buy anything from there as there are loads of shops nearby in Rotorua. The evacuation plan was mounted clearly on the back of the door, something I always check out of habit, even if I never need to use it. The bathroom was moddern and practical.
A vessel basin was in the vanity, which worked well and looked good too. O. Bigelow toiletries lined up next to it. (I am not normally fussy about toiletries in hotels but these were of a decent quality).
Everything I wanted was on the amenity tray, and there was an easy-to-find bagged hairdryer. Plenty of towels…
One on the rail plus some stacked on the shelving. O. ), it was a large shower. The water pressure was good and the temperature was kept steady.
There was also a recessed tiled area for the toilet, adding a little extra privacy even if the door is open. In summary, the Pullman Rotorua is exactly as I expected: a no-fuss hotel full of thoughtful touches that provides a comfortable place to sleep in a great location, which is all I was looking for. If I were to return to Rotorua and didn’t want to splash out on something fancy but still needed a reliable spot to retreat to after a long day exploring, I wouldn’t think twice about staying here again.
Have you ever stayed at the Pullman Rotorua, or are you thinking about staying there during your next visit? Let me know your thoughts (or ask any questions) in the comments.
