The Turangi Bridge Bar And Restaurant

I can honestly say this one of our favorite hotels and we both wish we had stayed longer. Turangi is on the south side of lake Taupo, within driving distance from Tongariro National Park. This area is known for outdoor activities and fishing. The town itself is small but has all the normal amenities including nice grocery stores and restaurants on the lake. The hotel is more of a fishing lodge, with a rustic bar area, small lobby, and cabin vibe. Each unit has a dedicated parking stall a few steps away, but you do need to carry luggage up stairs. Each unit opens onto a shared deck, chairs are provided. Beds are large and comfortable, with a love seat, kitchenette, and large restroom. This was a quiet place to sleep and relax. The rooms look out on green lawns, flowering trees, and the riverbed beyond.

Just had dinner there with my husband. Expertly made and tasty dishes except for the fried calamari. Reasonably priced (relative to our experience in Taupo). Lovely ambiance. There is a small but fairly decently supplied bar inside. Some regulars hanging out there.

One of our best place of stay. Very clean, comfortable and nice. Just one thing that I wish they had, a microwave to warm up leftovers. Maybe not in the room but in a common area for the guests to use. But then again none of the motels seem to have them in NZ. Otherwise excellent, I highly recommend this place. The motel restaurant is a bit pricey and the food is too fancy for my taste. Wish it was just simple home style cooking with a more economical price.

Owner of property didn't even acknowledge us on arrival totally arrogant. Bar staff are lovely and helpful. Rooms: 4 Service: 1 Location: 5

I used to eat at the Bridge Lodge over the years but I have to say the standards have dropped. The food was very salty tonight, too salty to eat. The young lady who served was doing her best and tried to be helpful but she obviously hasn't had the training from management. There was no welcome, plates and menu left on the table and it was all very informal. I will not go again which is a pity because there are very few restaurants in Turangi of the standard that the lodge used to have.