Skotel Alpine Resort

Whoops this place is in a need of refurbishing as it’s tired and noisy.. paper thin walls and doors and windows just hanging on in there. Yes a motel but tramped through and worn out. But the communal kitchen and bar area are great

Overall we liked the Skotel, the location is fantastic in Tongariro National Park. The facility is old but clean. Request a room facing south looking over the valley, preferably not one facing the parking lot in the back. The staff was friendly. We were disappointed that one of our rooms was very small and not close to the rest of our party. The price was very good.

The bed did not suit us and we left early in spite of not getting any refund. We stayed in 220 and we were relieved that the room did not smell like the lobby. The sky cleared briefly and the stars were amazing. Facility is close to hiking trails and visitors center. We believe that designators "resort" and "hotel" are a stretch and motel would be a more appropriate designation. Our room was listed as having a mirco and due to forest location, cooking is only in communal kitchen.

In need of renovations

I like their packed lunch!

I understand the appeal of Skotel - a quaint, Kiwi escape in the middle of Tongariro National Park - and while both the meal at their restaurant and the gym/sauna/spa facilities pleasantly surprised me, the resort does have a couple let downs holding it back. Firstly, and importantly, the hotel is extremely isolated - in the summer months there is NOTHING happening in Whakapapa, and the nearest ‘town’ is at least a 20 minute drive away, even if you just want groceries and the like. Also, the room and en-suite bathroom were definitely smaller than we expected. However, I must admit I did have a comfortable sleep there and the stay is certainly more than suitable for a night after a day of exploring the park.

Amazing value. Loved the vibe. Friendly staff. Sustainability efforts. Beautiful setting.

Great location and food. Friendly helpful staff. The rooms were a bit worn and awkward, but servicable.

We had a good stay. Like other people have mentioned, the walls are thin and you can hear people talking next door, but the room was cozy. We had a bunk bed with another single twin bed. It was unexpected that we had to book time in the hot tub and pay $5 for 30 minutes. The scenery around the hotel is beautiful and it's quiet and dark during the night.

Great location for multiple hikes.