The Prince’s Gate boasts beautiful Victorian looks with a splendid veranda surround and a patterned woodworked façade.
We stumbled upon Prince’s Gate Hotel late one night, coming from Waihi, after a full day of filming and taking the wrong turns on the road to Rotorua. It was grand, imposing and most importantly, open, though we didn’t think we could afford it. To our surprise the rate was more than reasonable and thus started our affair with the most amazing hotel in New Zealand.
It is a bit overwhelming when you enter the large lobby, it’s like some rich people’s living room from a by gone era. It even has a staircase that leads from the “living room” up to the next level where the actual rooms are located, everyone of them opening to a cool veranda where you could have your morning coffee or that very important chat just before going to bed. We stayed there nights, me and my team, and we would have stayed longer, schedule permitting.
Didn’t have anything but breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant but they advertise delicious treats for lunch and dinner, cabaret nights and high tea. Do check it out when you are in the area.
Great breakfasts!
On the last morning we filmed an interview with the owner of the place and, though I had the chance to speak with many hoteliers during my travels, Mr Marvelly really struck me as the most passionate about the well being of his guests. He and his wife were very proud of their daughter, Elizabeth, born and raised at the hotel, who is now a world famous classical singer and whose second album “Home” was released this year.
It’s quite difficult to find a home away from home at the other end of the world but once you find it it never leaves your mind.
The Gate Bar
Rotorua is the place to check out the Maori culture and cuisine and also to indulge in some geothermal spa treatments and dare practice some wild extreme sports.
Prince’s Gate was originally built in 1897 in Waihi and transferred years later to its current location in Rotorua. For the full story go to the hotel’s website.
Finally – don’t mind the smell in Rotorua! It comes from the geothermal pools and you get used to it after a day or two.
Princes Gate Hotel
Unique Boutique Hotel Accommodation
Address:
1057 Arawa Street
Rotorua, New Zealand
Telephone No.: +64 7-348 1179
Fax No.: +64 7-348 6215
E~mail: [email protected]
Website: www.princesgate.co.nz