Skotel Alpine Resort

Cozy, perfect place to base yourself to explore the national park❤️ Spacious and quiet room (310) and comfy bed. View of tip of ruapehu💚

The best thing about Skotel Alpine Resort is hands down the location. It’s right inside Tongariro National Park, just minutes from Whakapapa ski field and the start of popular walking tracks. You wake up to views of Mt Ruapehu and are completely surrounded by nature — perfect if you're here to hike, ski, or explore the area. Rooms are simple but warm, and the atmosphere feels like a true alpine lodge. Everything you need is on-site, including a restaurant, drying room, and sauna. Staff were helpful and welcoming

They have a great location with lots of potential but there were several issues. The privacy lock on the door was busted, the TV didn't get any channels, there's no soap holder in the shower so that inconvenient. The walls are very thin so you hear everything from the surrounding rooms including the kid tapping at 4am. The bed smelled like urine. The vanity counter top was busted. The restaurant requires reservations for dinner which isn't a problem as they asked upon checkin however the food was severely lacking. I ordered the chicken schnitzel and it was burned, like black in places burned. Also, it had no seasoning and they didn't bother trimming the fat off the chicken. Finally the bartender didn't even know how to make a whiskey and coke, he brought my drink out full to the brim and then asked if I wanted ice. He brought out some ice but with the drink so full it made a mess.

This was our base for the Tongariro Alpine Trail and I'm glad because the drive from here to the trail head carpark was easier than from Turangi (particularly appreciated during the dark predawn hours). The accommodation also offers a shuttle service at certain timings if you prefer that. The hostel kitchen was also available for hotel guests' use, which was lovely. I think laundry is also available in the basement, for a fee. Room light switches were tricky to locate (hidden by the side tables) but the staff at reception was happy to help. View from the room, as others have mentioned, was a highlight.

Excellent location. We stayed at the largest room 211 king size bed and widest view. Highly recommended. International Staff are nice and helpful. The Skotel brought me back in the 80's with its design and deco.

This place is quaint, in am excellent location, and the stars at night are touchable! What an unexpected delight!