1,222 reviews
From
$841101 Hinemaru Street, Rotorua, 3040, New Zealand
1,222 reviews
1/17
Outdoor swimming pool
Indoor swimming pool
Free Private Parking
Free wifi
Tour desk
Private entrance
Parking On Site
Soundproof rooms
Ambassador Thermal Motel in Rotorua is a playful, easygoing base for exploring New Zealand’s geothermal city. Expect comfort with handy touches like free Wi‑Fi, free private parking, a private entrance, and a kitchen setup that makes longer stays feel at home. An outdoor pool and an indoor pool offer splashy downtime after a day of adventures.
Located at 1101 Hinemaru Street, Rotorua, New Zealand, about 0.7mi from Rotorua city center. Minimum price starts from $84. Reviews: 1,276.
Key amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and an indoor swimming pool, free private parking and free on-site parking, free Wi‑Fi, a tour desk, private entrance, soundproof rooms, a kitchen with kitchenware and kitchenette, a balcony with a view, free toiletries, non-smoking rooms, and air conditioning available for an extra charge.
After a day out exploring Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, three heated pools are ready for a soak: two outdoor pools and one indoor pool, all adults-only. A private entrance makes arrivals feel easy and breezy, while a kitchen setup with kitchenware and a kitchenette keeps longer stays feeling comfortable. End the evening on a balcony with a view, then refresh with complimentary toiletries before planning the next day’s adventures.
Practical perks include free Wi‑Fi and free private parking, along with a tour desk to map Rotorua’s highlights. Non-smoking rooms keep the vibe fresh, and air conditioning is available for an extra charge for those warm Rotorua nights.
Located at 1101 Hinemaru Street, Rotorua, about 0.7mi from the city center, the spot blends easy access with flexible sleep options. Room configurations include studios and several apartment layouts, with some accommodating up to 10 adults and 6 children, offering a range of choices for different group sizes. Non-smoking rooms are available, adding to the comfortable, traveler-friendly feel.
Closest airports
Rotorua Airport
3.8miTauranga Airport
32.1miWhakatane Airport
38.7miTaupo Airport
42.9miHamilton International Airport
53.6miOutdoor swimming pool
Indoor swimming pool
Free Private Parking
Free wifi
Tour desk
Private entrance
Parking On Site
Soundproof rooms
Kitchen
Non-smoking rooms
Kitchenware
Kitchenette
Balcony
View
Free toiletries
Soundproof
Show 5 photos
Apartment, 1 Bedroom
3 Twin Beds
1 Double Bed
710 sqft
Kitchen
Private Bathroom
Kitchenette
View
x10
+
x6
More details
Featuring a private entrance, this apartment consists of 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. Guests can make meals in the kitchen that comes with a stovetop, a refrigerator, kitchenware and a microwave. The apartment features carpeted floors, a seating area with a flat-screen TV with cable channels, soundproof walls, a dining area, as well as a wardrobe. The unit offers 2 beds.
Show 6 photos
Apartment, 2 Bedroom
2 Double Beds
2 Sofa Beds
1010 sqft
Kitchen
Private Bathroom
Kitchenette
Kitchenware
x10
+
x6
More details
This spacious apartment features a fully equipped kitchen.
Show 3 photos
Studio
1 Twin Bed
1 Double Bed
375 sqft
Kitchen
Private Bathroom
Kitchenette
Balcony
+
More details
This studio includes a kitchenette.
Show 3 photos
Studio, Double/Twin
1 Twin Bed
1 Double Bed
375 sqft
Kitchen
Private Bathroom
Kitchenette
Balcony
x3
+
More details
Studio, Queen Size
1 Double Bed
270 sqft
Kitchen
Private Bathroom
Kitchenette
Kitchenware
x5
+
x3
More details
Show 5 photos
Economy Apartment, 2 Bedroom
More details
Basic Studio
1 Double Bed
More details
Room - 2 Double
2 Double Beds
More details
Quadruple Room, Panoramic View
+
More details
1-Bedroom Superior Apartment
Economy Apartment, 1 Bedroom
More details
1 Bedroom
x10
+
x6
More details
2 Bedroom
x10
+
x6
More details
7.5
1,222 reviewsCategories of assessments
Cleanliness
Comfort
Location
Facilities
Staff
Value for money
WiFi quality
Featured reviews:
Wairama
9.1
April 2025
Emojis dont seem to be working on this form?. Staff , cleanliness, value for money, location were excellent. Was on ground floor so didnt need to climb stairs and the small thermal sauna situated outside my room was an added bonus. Was lovely being so close to lake front and central city and could easily walk everywhere.
Only one bed had a side light - not a problem as was on my own but would have been if my partner had been able to come. Also only one comfortable arm chair - again as above. Only two mugs for hot drinks so had to ask for another mug when I had visitors- but everything else I needed in kitchen area.
Lúcás
8.2
June 2025
Very spacious room. And despite the cold weather outside, stayed a good temperature. Good location - round the corner from the main bars and restaurants; and very close to the 2 main thermal spas in town. I also liked the selection of pools at the hotel. The fact there were 3 of them made up for them each being a little small. And gave a choice of different temperatures.
The sofa chairs weren't very soft any more. The lighting was quite harsh (for example: no bedside lamps - just the big ceiling light above the bed). Toiletries were minimal.
Kisile
9.1
March 2025
Great location—just a 3-minute walk to Wai Ariki, with QE Health right across the street, and a 10-minute walk to Polynesian Spa. The room had a stunning panoramic view of the lake. Despite the hotel being fully booked, it was quiet. The thermal pools were excellent, and the beds were very comfortable. The room was spacious, clean, and well-equipped. The kitchen was spotless and had everything needed for cooking, including utensils, salt, pepper, tea, and coffee. Shower gel, shampoo, and clean towels were provided. The staff were fantastic—kind, helpful, and always positive. The room had air conditioning, a heater, and everything necessary for a comfortable stay. Highly recommended!
I liked the hotel's location, the beautiful view from the room, the cleanliness, the friendly staff, the thermal pools, and the comfortable beds.
Deven
9.1
January 2025
Really nice place in a very central location in Rotorua. The motel has everything you could need, all the amenities in each room, making it liveable for probably months on end if required. We stayed for 3 nights and were very comfortable, plenty of space and daily cleaning and towel changes if required. Plenty of facilities on site, 3 pools all heated, on-site laundry facilities ($4 per load for washing or drying) and a drying room. The manager/front desk staff member was very friendly and helped with any query. He provided change for the washing machine, and even allowed us to borrow an umbrella as we explored the town. Highly recommended for anyone coming to stay in Rotorua.
If anyone is sensitive to smell, it's very close to the sulphur point in Rotorua, so coming out of the room, it's a very strong smell. There is also a sulphur pool in the motel, so that could also affect people. During our stay, we had some quite loud guests or long term residents, so wasn't as peaceful as we'd have liked but it's liveable.
Crichton
8.2
October 2024
The location was was within walking distance to the city centre. Loved that the lake & park was only a 3 minute walk away. Although our room was pretty plain, it had everything we needed & the price was reasonable too. It has a thermal indoor pool & separate spa, which we didn't utilize, however, we did utilize the outdoor heated pool which was lovely. Our towels & bathroom necessities were replenished everyday which was good. The young man who runs the facility was awesome too. We will definitely be booking with The Ambassador again on our next visit too.
There were two adults & one child staying at the hotel, but there were only two towels available. Luckily I had brought my own towels for swimming. Mind you, I guess if I had asked for another towel I may have been given one lol
Beate
8.2
August 2025
Loved that they were able to put us right next to the pool. The pool was lovely and warm (hot even!), clean and a great size. The room was perfect for our needs and it was clean. We felt very welcome.
Just to be aware that the motel is old. There were things not working - light in the kitchen, switch in the bathroom, the oven and although clean when we arrived, we got ants in the kitchen and fridge. But we passed that all on, so that will have all been fixed, I’m sure.
Jane
9.1
March 2025
Loved the location and the friendlliness of the staff. The bed was super comfy and loved all the amenities in the room. Cater for what we wanted as we were only staying just one night. We were blessed to be upgraded, thank you to the property manager. Easy walking distance to all of the local attractions and restuarants. Excellent value for money. Will definitely look at staying again, maybe a bit longer. Well done Amabassaor!
Can't really comment on just one night stay of what could be better, but first impressions do count.
Shani
10
March 2025
Staff at reception were so nice, and let us get into room a bit early. Location was good as we had free parking out the front all day, and could walk to 'Eat Street' Tip for new visitors to Rotorua. You would need a car to drive (about 30 km) out of town to see the Thermal Wonderlands. We didn't see any thermal activity in the town park, "Kuirau Park" so that wasn't really worth the walk. Also nothing to see at Sulphur Point, so I don't suggest walking that direction either.
New mattress protectors required in our Room 11.
Mereraukura
10
July 2025
The location is great and the room was a size big size for my family and I, staff are very welcoming and friendly. And our room was away from everyone else which was a great due to the fact my kids can sometimes be quite loud.
The curtains were still pulled over so it was a bit cold when we got into the room, but nothing the heat pump couldn’t fix warmed up really fast, and there was no heater/fan in the bathroom. The leather on the couch was also coming off.
Bonnie
8.2
June 2025
Loved the location, loved the view from our room, i liked the underfloor heating and the room was so cozy and warm which was nice as we stayed during winter. We enjoyed the thermal pool as well.
The beds aren't the comfiest, and the room decor/furnishings looked a bit old and worn.
Attractions
Sulphur Point
0.2miGovernment Gardens Rotorua
0.2miBlue Baths
0.2miRotorua Museum (Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa)
0.2miPolynesian Spa
0.4miTe Pā Tū (Tamaki Māori Village)
0.6miVelocity Valley
4.4miRedwoods Forest Whakarewarewa
5.2miLake Okareka
5.6miLake Tikitapu (Blue Lake)
5.7miLake Rotokakahi (Green Lake)
6.8miWaimangu Volcanic Valley
12.7miMt. Tarawera
15.1miLady Knox Geyser
16.4miWai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
16.5miAttractions
Sulphur Point
0.2miGovernment Gardens Rotorua
0.2miBlue Baths
0.2miRotorua Museum (Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa)
0.2miPolynesian Spa
0.4miTe Pā Tū (Tamaki Māori Village)
0.6miVelocity Valley
4.4miRedwoods Forest Whakarewarewa
5.2miLake Okareka
5.6miLake Tikitapu (Blue Lake)
5.7miLake Rotokakahi (Green Lake)
6.8miWaimangu Volcanic Valley
12.7miMt. Tarawera
15.1miLady Knox Geyser
16.4miWai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
16.5miAirports
Rotorua Airport
3.8miTauranga Airport
32.1miWhakatane Airport
38.7miTaupo Airport
42.9miHamilton International Airport
53.6miLocation
Features
Age restrictions
Availability
Location
Features
Age restrictions
Availability
Outdoor swimming pool
Indoor swimming pool
Free Private Parking
Free wifi
Tour desk
Private entrance
Parking On Site
Soundproof rooms
Kitchen
Non-smoking rooms
Kitchenware
Kitchenette
Balcony
View
Free toiletries
Soundproof
Accessibility
Entire unit located on ground floor
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Bathroom
Bathtub or shower
Free toiletries
Hairdryer
Private Bathroom
Shower
Toilet
Toilet paper
Towels
Bedroom
Linens
Wardrobe or closet
Cleaning Services
Daily housekeeping
Laundry
Front Desk Services
Baggage storage
Invoice provided
Private check-in/out
Tour desk
General
Air conditioning
Carpeted
Designated smoking area
Family rooms
Heating
Hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic room available
Non-smoking rooms
Private entrance
Soundproof
Soundproof rooms
Internet
Free wifi
Kitchen
Cleaning products
Dining table
Electric kettle
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Kitchenware
Microwave
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Toaster
Living Area
Dining area
Sitting area
Sofa
Media & Technology
Cable channels
Flat-screen TV
TV
Outdoors
Balcony
Outdoor furniture
Parking
Free Private Parking
Parking On Site
Room Amenities
Fan
Iron
Socket near the bed
Safety & security
24-hour security
CCTV in common areas
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Services
Wake-up service
Spa
Indoor swimming pool
Outdoor swimming pool
View
View
From 14:00
Until 21:30
Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in
Until 10:00
Pets are not allowed.
WiFi is available in the hotel rooms and is free of charge.
The minimum age for check-in is 18
Come and go whenever you want
Free private parking is available on site (reservation is not possible).
Child policies
Children of all ages are welcome.
Children 6 and above will be charged as adults at this property.
To see correct prices and occupancy info, add the number and ages of children in your group to your search.
Crib and extra bed policies
0+ years
The price in NZD has been converted to show you the approximate price in USD.
Additional fees are not calculated automatically in the total cost and will have to be paid for separately during your stay.
The maximum number of cribs, extra beds, and children allowed in existing beds can vary depending on the option booked.
All cribs and extra beds are subject to availability.
No capacity for extra beds.
Cash
Visa,
Mastercard,
Cash only,
Eftpos
This property accepts cash.
What's the check-in and check-out schedule at Ambassador Thermal Motel?
Guests at Ambassador Thermal Motel can check in between 02:00 PM and 09:30 PM. Check-out time is set for 10:00 AM.
Is free parking available at Ambassador Thermal Motel?
Yes, there is free private on-site parking available at the Ambassador Thermal Motel.
How much does a stay at Ambassador Thermal Motel cost?
Starting prices for Ambassador Thermal Motel are around $84. This may vary based on room categories and travel dates. To confirm rates, please provide your stay dates.
What are the room types available at Ambassador Thermal Motel?
The hotel offers Queen Studios, Studios, and One-Bedroom Apartments. The Queen Studios have a room size of 269 sqft, accommodate 2 adults and 1 child, and have a double bed. The Studios have a room size of 377 sqft, accommodate 3 adults and 1 child, and have a twin bed and a double bed. The One-Bedroom Apartments have varying sizes ranging from 538 sqft to 710 sqft, accommodate 3-4 adults and 1 child, and have various bed configurations including twin beds, double beds, and sofa beds.
What are the main attractions at Ambassador Thermal Motel?
Guests at the Ambassador Thermal Motel can spend their time enjoying the leisure amenities provided by the hotel. They can make use of the outdoor swimming pool, which is available all year round, and is heated for their comfort. There are also two indoor swimming pools available, one specifically designed for adults, where guests can relax and unwind. For families traveling with children, there is a separate kids' pool, ensuring that everyone can have a fun and enjoyable swimming experience. Additionally, guests can also make use of the hot spring bath, which is a perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate after a long day of activities. With these leisure amenities, guests can have a memorable and relaxing stay at the Ambassador Thermal Motel.
Is there a swimming pool at Ambassador Thermal Motel?
The hotel has three pools. Pool 1 and Pool 2 are both outdoor pools that are available all year round. They are exclusively for adults and are heated. Pool 3 is an indoor pool, also for adults only and heated.
Are both cash and credit cards valid payment options at Ambassador Thermal Motel?
Yes, both cash and credit cards are valid payment options at Ambassador Thermal Motel.
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