Waipahihi’s The Reef Resort offers an idyllic retreat with a spa tub, library, and free in-room WiFi. Cycling enthusiasts will love the nearby bike trails while others can unwind by the outdoor pool or explore the beautiful garden.
Reviews
9.69.6 out of 10
Exceptional
Popular amenities
Airport transfer
Free parking
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Laundry facilities
Main amenities (12)
Daily housekeeping
2 outdoor pools
Breakfast available
Free airport shuttle
Terrace
Air conditioning
Garden
Library
Front-desk safe
Self-serve laundry
Concierge services
Picnic area
Feel at home (6)
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Television
Garden
Terrace
Daily housekeeping
Laundry facilities
The current price is CNY635
CNY635
CNY730 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 14 - Jun 15
Why we love this property
Direct beach motel
This motel boasts direct access to the beach on a waterfront location. Nearby water adventures include kayaking, sailing, and parasailing.
Breakfast delights
This motel serves a delicious morning start with cooked-to-order breakfast, ensuring each dish is prepared fresh upon request.
beach near Kaimanawa Reserve - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
Waipahihi Botanical Gardens - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
Taupō Hot Springs - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
Wairakei Geothermal Power Station - 2 min drive - 2.9 km
Maori Carvings - 3 min drive - 2.6 km
Getting around
Taupō Airport (TUO) - 6 min drive
Free airport shuttle
Restaurants
McDonald's - 4 min drive
Dixie Brown's Cafe - 5 min drive
Cafe Baku - 5 min drive
Starbucks - 3 min drive
The Coffee Club Taupo - 5 min drive
About this property
The Reef Resort
The Reef Resort is just 3.2 mi (5.1 km) from the airport and offers a free shuttle (available on request). Freebies like WiFi and self parking are added perks, and guests looking to stay active can check out the nearby hiking/biking trails, kayaking, and mountain biking. There are 2 outdoor pools, a terrace, and in-room conveniences like refrigerators and microwaves.
At a glance
DONE
Hotel size
21 rooms
Arranged over 3 floors
DONE
Arriving/Leaving
Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 7:30 PM
Contactless check-in available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18
Check-out time is 10 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
DONE
Special check-in instructions
This property offers transfers from the airport; to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 7:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
This property enforces quiet hours from 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
DONE
Required at check-in
Credit card, debit card, or cash deposit required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
Minimum check-in age is 18
DONE
Children
No cribs (infant beds)
DONE
Pets
Pets not allowed
Service animals welcome
WIFI
Internet
Free WiFi in public areas
Free WiFi in rooms
LOCAL_PARKING
Parking
Free covered onsite self parking
Limited onsite parking (max 1 space per unit)
Height restrictions apply for onsite parking
Onsite parking includes off-street options
DONE
Transfers
Free airport shuttle from 8 AM to 7:00 PM*
DONE
Other information
Smoke-free property
No alcohol served onsite
Property amenities
Food and drink
Cooked-to-order breakfast (surcharge) each morning 8:00 AM–9 AM
Gas grills
What to do
Beach access
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Horse riding nearby
Kayaking nearby
Ski lessons nearby
Water skiing nearby
Skydiving nearby
Snowboarding nearby
Services
Front desk (limited hours)
Concierge services
Tour/ticket assistance
Laundry facilities
Luggage storage
Bicycle rentals
Pool loungers
Pool umbrellas
Facilities
2 buildings/towers
Safe-deposit box at front desk
Garden
Picnic area
Terrace
Library
2 outdoor pools
Locally-owned & organized tours & activities
Local artist showcase
At least 10% of profits reinvested in community & sustainability
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Comprehensive recycling policy
Outdoor furniture
Walkway to water
Accessibility
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Well-lit path to entrance
Stair-free path to entrance
Room amenities
Be entertained
Flat-screen television
Digital TV channels
Home comfort
Heating (climate-controlled) and air conditioning
Electric kettle
Bathrobes
Iron/ironing board
Laundry detergent
Sleep well
Bed sheets provided
Freshen up
Eco-friendly toiletries
Hair dryer
Towels
Toilet paper
Stay connected
Desk
Free WiFi
Food and drink
Refrigerator
Microwave
Stovetop
Toaster
Cookware, dishes, and utensils
Free tea bags/instant coffee
More
Daily housekeeping
Eco-friendly toiletries
Bulk dispenser for toiletries
Eco-friendly cleaning products provided
LED light bulbs
Recycling
Water-efficient toilets only
Guidebooks/recommendations
Local maps
Restaurant dining guide
Fees & policies
Optional extras
Cooked-to-order breakfast is offered for an extra charge of approximately NZD 15 to 25 for adults, and NZD 15 to 25 for children
Late check-out can be arranged for an extra charge (subject to availability)
Parking
Parking height restrictions apply
Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)
Pool access available from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Policies
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed.
This property does not have elevators.
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products.
Guests can rest easy knowing there's a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit on site.
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).
This property accepts credit cards and mobile payments. Cash is not accepted.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club
Also known as
Reef Resort Taupo
Reef Taupo
Reef Hotel Taupo
The Reef Hotel Taupo
Reef Resort Heritage Collection Taupo
Reef Resort Heritage Collection
Reef Heritage Collection Taupo
Reef Heritage Collection
The Reef Resort
The Reef Resort Heritage Collection
The Reef Resort Motel
The Reef Resort Taupo
The Reef Resort Motel Taupo
The Reef Resort Heritage Collection
Frequently asked questions
Does The Reef Resort offer free cancellation for a full refund?
Yes, The Reef Resort does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure to check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.
Is there a pool at The Reef Resort?
Yes, there are 2 outdoor pools. Guests have pool access from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
Are pets allowed at The Reef Resort?
Sorry, pets aren't allowed, but service animals are welcome.
Is parking offered on site at The Reef Resort?
Yes, there's free self parking. Parking spots may be limited.
Is airport shuttle service offered by The Reef Resort?
Yes, a free airport shuttle is available from 8 AM to 7:00 PM on request.
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Reef Resort?
Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 7:30 PM. Check-out time is 10 AM. Late check-out is available for a charge (subject to availability). Contactless check-in and check-out are available.
What is there to do at The Reef Resort and nearby?
Have fun with nearby winter activities like downhill skiing, snowboarding, and sledding, and in warmer months enjoy a round of golf at the nearby golf course. Additional recreation nearby includes hot springs. Enjoy a swim in one of the 2 outdoor swimming pools or use the motel's other amenities, which include a picnic area and a garden.
What's the area around The Reef Resort like?
The Reef Resort is in Waipahihi, a short 6-minute drive from Taupō Airport (TUO) and 16 minutes' walk from Taupō Hot Springs.
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Reviews
The Reef Resort Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
9.8
Cleanliness
9.2
Location
9.6
Staff & service
9.4
Property conditions & facilities
Guest review summary
What guests liked
The pool was consistently described as lovely, heated, and excellent, providing a great experience for guests. (31 reviews)
The geothermal pool and spa were very nice and a great way to relax after a long day. (12 reviews)
The hot tub was beautifully hot and very pleasant, with some guests even not wanting to get out. (8 reviews)
From real guest reviews summarized by AI.
Popular mentions
Room
Lake
View
Location
Service staff
Kitchen
Spa
Parking
Water
Lake view
Reviews
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 11, 2026
We had a wonderful stay at The Reef! It was THE PERFECT spot for the IRONMAN race as it is on the run course in both the front and back route so saw my wife twice each round lol! Lake Taupo is just 50 yards away and road out is very accessible. Staff was super friendly, and the room was cleaned spotless every day. We would love to stay here again!
Christopher
Christopher, 11-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jan 10, 2026
Friendly staff, wonderful view from room. Great facilities.
James
James, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 28, 2025
Great room overlooking the lake, Clean room and friendly staff. Excellent amenities and lovely heated outdoor pools.
Michael
Michael, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 22, 2025
Fabulous location and luxurious accomadation.
Alun
Alun, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 9, 2025
Enjoyable stay , nice view ,
Terrence
Terrence, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 28, 2025
The hotel was in a quiet location with a lovely warm pool, just what was needed after a few days on the go
Ian
Ian, 2-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Sep 29, 2025
Friendly staff, amazing pool, comfy, clean room with lovely beds.
Denise
Denise, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Dec 8, 2025
The host Jenny was an absolutely beautiful host
Thank you for letting us stay early
Also breakfast was delicious
Catrina
Catrina, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 9, 2025
Wonderful place to stay. Lovely staff, great room, nice pool and spa 😊
Amanda
Amanda, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jan 2, 2026
Absolutely fantastic! Location is perfect - love the gate to the lakeside pathway.
Pools are devine.
Cooking facilities all exceptional.
Like a luxurious home away from home.
Sheta
Sheta, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 28, 2025
Easy check in, fantastic location,
Anna
Anna, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Dec 15, 2025
We absolutely loved our stay here. The staff are so lovely, the location is incredible right on the lake, and our room was perfect and had the most amazing view. The pool was heated and we LOVED it — we spent at least 3 hours a day in it after our activities that day. Thank you to the team at Reef Resort, y’all make this a very special place.
Gabriele
Gabriele, 3-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Oct 18, 2025
Great heated pool. Good breakfast was available. Nice tidy room
Craig
Craig, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 10, 2025
Beautiful resort on the lakeside. Nice pools, great well equipped rooms and a very helpful owner/manager. Highly recommended.
Alan
Alan, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 7, 2025
Like the clean room nice hot pools
Luigi
Luigi, 2-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Sep 14, 2025
Great mid winter stay. Spa pool excellent. Staff friendly. Recommend.
Tony
Tony, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 24, 2024
Lovely place, staff are super friendly and heated pools were nice, would definitely visit again.
Hunter
Hunter, 2-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Nov 4, 2024
Clean, friendly and a great heated pool.
Barry
Barry, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 7, 2024
great location and property
Brian
Brian, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Dec 22, 2024
Loved the location, bicycles, kitchenette, lake view, and staff hospitality. Lots of great dining options.
Marjorie
Marjorie, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 8, 2025
Great room. Great location. Nice hosts. Would stay here again.
Myrla
Myrla, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 24, 2025
Property has great location. The bikes for hire are great option. Pool is lovely. Really enjoyed our stay
Sarah
Sarah, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 20, 2024
Loved our stay here, nice spacious room. Had everything we needed. Staff were lovely, we will definitely be back again