Closest Motel to Whakapapa by 8km.

We have self-contained motels & chalets, backpacker cabins and all camping. Our 10 acres of park like grounds are surrounded by nature. We enjoy a full panorama of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe & Mt Tongariro. No charge for the views!

For your convenience and enjoyment we have a licensed restaurant & bar, and guest lounge. The guest lounge has an open fire, Sony Home Theatre, Internet and free pool table.

Discovery Lodge is the closest accommodation to the start of the Tongariro Crossing by 5km. Our Tongariro Crossing Shuttle Bus departs from early morning so you get to enjoy the hike in peace and quiet. Only 10 minutes on the bus and you’re there!

We are only 4 minutes drive to Whakapapa Village. And then a scenic drive of less than 10 minutes to the Whakapapa Ski Field.

The Lodge is owned & operated by a team of friendly locals who are passionate about the Tongariro National Park. We hope to meet you and share this Tongariro wonderland with you soon.

Best wishes and kindest regards,

The Discovery Team

ps - click here for a collection of Discovery Lodge and Tongariro National Park landscape images.

Skiing & Boarding Whakapapa

Save time & money traveling to and from the ski field. We are about 4 minutes drive to Whakapapa. And because our units are self contained with kitchens you can save even more money by self catering. Choose accommodation now.

ps - we sell lift passes here so no need to wait in lines on the mountain

World Famous Tongariro Crossing

We operate the earliest of any Tongariro Crossing transport service (since 2001) so you can enjoy the Crossing in peace and quiet. More...

ps - we are the closest accommodation to the start of the Crossing by over 5km.

Our Promise
We promise to do our very best to make you feel welcome at Discovery Lodge.
We also promise to help you with any information or help you may need, no matter what the request! This promise is not only to our guests but to anyone in need of help or information.

Visitor Comments
"The most friendly and helpful place we have ever stayed. Highly recommended." Keren & Dan. View more comments.

Our Guarantee
We guarantee Discovery Lodge is the only tourist accommodation to enjoy a panorama of Tongariro's three active volcanoes. No other accommodation enjoys such an outstanding unobstructed view !