27 Jan How to make your partner’s milestone birthday a SUCCESS!
Looking to celebrate your partner’s next milestone birthday in style? Give the gift of an unforgettable weekend getaway in Rotorua! It’s the perfect destination for a short break – with amazing views, a thriving culinary scene, and unique geothermal and cultural experiences galore. From high-end luxury resorts to native forest adventures, and of course, plenty of delicious food and wine, here are our tips on how to have an extraordinary birthday like no other.
Take the celebrations to new heights
The highlight of the weekend is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime scenic flight across New Zealand’s iconic geothermal wonderland. Take to the skies with Volcanic Air and enjoy breathtaking views across the lakes district. Soar over Tikitapu (Blue Lake), Rotokakahi (Green Lake), Okareka, Tarawera, and Okataina – a series of stunning crater lakes surrounded by native forests and pastoral lands.
Tucked away from the city amongst volcanic terrain, and best experienced from above, Volcanic Air offers a series of helicopter or floatplane experiences to take in the beauty of this region. Before returning to the lakefront, catch a glimpse of the city as you fly across the shores of Lake Rotorua.
Experience the Lake District from above, featuring hidden lakes and shorelines Credit: Volcanic Air
Room for two
Stay in style with panoramic views across Lake Tarawera at the Solitaire Lodge. All your needs will be taken care of by the amazing staff, making you feel right at home. With the complimentary mini bar well-stocked with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, enjoy a soak in your private outdoor tub for two, before settling in for pre-dinner drinks and canapés. The following five-course dinner will take your tastebuds on a one-of-a-kind journey, with a daily changing menu that reflects the seasonal flavours of New Zealand’s food scene.
Stunning views over Lake Tarawera from your private suite Credit: Solitaire Lodge
Feast like royalty
Say goodbye to a standard birthday cake, instead indulge with a private high-tea – with scrumptious treats like mini sandwiches, tarts, and scones. Situated just a 60-minute drive from Rotorua is Kinloch, a small village on the northern shores of Lake Taupō. The Kinloch Manor & Villas offer a mouth-watering high-tea experience, served alongside spectacular views of New Zealand’s only Jack Nicklaus Signature-designed golf course, the lake, and of Mount Tongariro.
High Tea with incredible views
Credit: The Kinloch Manor & Villas
Unwind and relax
Kick back and relax in your private Secret Spot Spa, in a secluded setting amongst native tree ferns. Visit by day to enjoy views of the forest, or make an evening reservation for a soak beneath the beautifully-lit lanterns. Put together your own flax kete (basket) with craft beverages of your choice, and head down the boardwalk through the ferns to find your hot tub next to the Waipa stream. Take a load off, share the stories from your day’s adventures, and connect with nature together.
Connect with nature in your own private Secret Spot spa
Credit: Secret Spot
Sip and snack
Round off the day with a thirst-quenching cocktail at The Fainting Goat, a relaxed gastropub in the heart of Rotorua. Graze on a shared platter or split a pizza and enjoy the chill and laid-back atmosphere. Their central location will make getting a taxi back to the hotel a breeze.
Indulge in delicious cocktails and mouth-watering snacks, nibbles, and meals
Credit: The Fainting Goat
If this sounds like the ideal birthday weekend to you, then it’s time to start planning your partner’s special day! With all the pampering, fine dining and high-flying you could ask for, Rotorua has you covered for a truly memorable celebration.