Okawa Bay Resort is a timeshare resort and tourist hotel complex on the shores of Lake Rotoiti, about 17 km north-east of Rotorua. Its 15 villas are 94 square metres each and sleep up to six, with no extra charge per head. Each villa has linen, crockery and kitchen equipment, along with a washing machine, dryer, dishwasher, microwave, Sky TV and a DVD player. The villas look out over the lake and expansive lawns, and each has a private boat launching ramp and marina just metres from the front door.
For boating and fishing, guests get a free marina berth for their stay, a water ski lane beside the resort, free kayaks and mountain bikes, and charter boats to hire. Trout fishing is on the doorstep. The on-site restaurant, bar, tennis court and gym are available to timesharers. Reception is open 24 hours, but guests arriving after 8pm are asked to phone ahead. The website names Whakarewarewa, Rainbow & Fairy Springs, the Agrodome and the Buried Village among the attractions within reach of Rotorua. Our pick near Rotorua for a lakeside family holiday with its own boat ramp.