Pre-dinner
5pm-6:30pm, when the fire is first lit and the lounge begins to settle into its evening rhythm.
Fireside Lounge & Relaxation
The fireside lounge is the social centre of Pine Haven Hotel, designed around a large stone fireplace and lined with native timber. It is a place to settle in after a day exploring Rotorua, with the scent of woodsmoke and the soft crackle of the fire setting a relaxed pace.
The lounge features a double-height ceiling with exposed timber beams and a stone chimney breast.
Seating is arranged in clusters of leather armchairs and woollen throws, encouraging conversation or quiet contemplation.
The fireplace is lit daily from late afternoon through the evening during cooler months.
Located on the ground floor near the main reception, open to all hotel guests from 3pm to 11pm daily.
The Timber Lounge
The lounge is wrapped in locally sourced rimu and matai timber, with polished floors and handcrafted joinery. The warm tones of the wood are complemented by soft lighting and natural textures, creating a space that feels both grounded and luxurious.
- Rimu panelling lines the walls, with matai used for the bar top and shelving.
- Custom furniture was made by a Rotorua woodworker, using offcuts from the hotel's construction.
- Large windows frame views of the surrounding pines, connecting the interior to the landscape.
A Palette of Warmth
The colour scheme draws from the forest floor: deep greens, earthy browns, and the soft cream of natural wool. Accents of ember orange appear in cushions and throws, echoing the fire's glow.
- Wool throws are sourced from a Canterbury mill.
- Cushions are made from recycled possum-merino blend.
- Lighting uses warm LED bulbs with a colour temperature of 2700K.
Fireside Evenings
As evening falls, the lounge takes on a golden hue. Guests gather in small groups, sharing stories of the day's adventures or simply watching the flames. The crackle of the fire and the low murmur of conversation create a soothing backdrop.
- The fire is stoked every hour by staff, using sustainably sourced pine.
- A selection of board games and local books is available on the shelves.
- Hot drinks, including mulled wine and herbal teas, are served from the bar.
- The bar in the lounge serves non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages from 5pm to 10pm.
Post-dinner
8pm-10pm, when the lounge is at its liveliest with conversation and shared stories.
Late quiet hour
10pm-11pm, reserved for silent reading and reflection as the fire burns low.
Quiet Reading Nooks
The Window Seat
A deep window seat runs along the eastern wall of the lounge, cushioned with wool and positioned to catch the morning light. It is an ideal spot for reading, with a small side table for a cup of tea and a view of the garden.
- The seat is 2.4 metres long and can accommodate two people comfortably.
- A selection of New Zealand fiction and nature guides is kept on a nearby shelf.
- Guests are welcome to take books to their rooms, provided they return them before checkout.
The Library Corner
Tucked behind the main seating area, the library corner offers a more secluded retreat. A leather armchair, a floor lamp, and a small bookshelf create a private reading environment.
- The armchair is positioned to face the fireplace, allowing a view of the flames while reading.
- The bookshelf contains a rotating collection of novels, travelogues, and local history books.
- A small sign requests that guests keep voices low in this area.
Relaxation Spaces
The Garden Terrace
Adjacent to the lounge, the garden terrace offers outdoor seating among native ferns and ponga trees. It is a peaceful spot for morning coffee or an afternoon rest, with the sound of birdsong and the scent of damp earth.
- The terrace is partially covered, providing shade in summer and shelter in light rain.
- Outdoor heaters are available on cooler evenings.
- Guests can request a blanket from the reception.
The Mineral Pool Deck
For deeper relaxation, the hotel offers a small outdoor mineral pool fed by natural geothermal water. The pool deck includes loungers and a changing area, and is open to guests from 7am to 9pm.
- The pool is maintained at a comfortable 38°C.
- Towels are provided poolside.
- Children under 12 must be supervised.
The mineral pool is a natural geothermal feature, not a heated swimming pool.
The Poker Room
For guests who enjoy a friendly game, the hotel offers a dedicated poker room adjacent to the fireside lounge. It features two physical poker tables, professional-grade cards, and symbolic chips for scorekeeping. The room is open from 7pm to 11pm and is strictly for in-person play among adult guests.
- No real money is involved; chips are purely symbolic.
- A staff member is available to explain the rules for beginners.
- The room has a capacity of 12 players.
- The poker room is not a gambling facility and does not offer any online or betting services.
Guest Comforts
The lounge is equipped with thoughtful amenities to make your time here effortless. From complimentary tea and coffee to charging stations, every detail is considered.
Complimentary tea, coffee, and filtered water are available throughout the day.
A small library of books and magazines is refreshed monthly.
USB charging ports are integrated into side tables.
Blankets and hot water bottles are available on request.
A guest computer and printer are located in a discreet corner for travel needs.
Make the Lounge Part of Your Stay
The fireside lounge and relaxation spaces are included with every stay at Pine Haven Hotel. Book your room today and look forward to evenings by the fire, quiet reading corners, and the warm hospitality of Rotorua.
- All room rates include access to the lounge and relaxation areas.
- The poker room is available to adult guests at no extra charge.
- Special packages may include a complimentary drink at the lounge bar.