Bach Pukawa, Lake Taupo. Birds, fishing, pets, wifi, skiing, 5 mins walk to lake
Hazydaze in Pukawa, an A frame construction plus a new built cabin beside, has a large flat area for parking a boat next the house and the driveway is flat also. A covered carport for one car is next to the house where the entrance door is located.
BIRDS Pukawa is a small, quiet settlement and a mecca for native birds. You'll see many birds on our property which is surrounded by bush down into a valley on one side and shrubs and mature trees on the other sides of the property creating a haven for the birds. Watch the antics as they land clumsily in trees (Wood Pigeon- Kereru), listen to the beautiful birdsong (Tui and Bellbird), see families of Quail, and look out for the shy and cute little black and white Tomtit, Bellbirds, Fantails and many other birds.. you'll want to bring out your camera!
STARGAZING If you are a fan of Star gazing, Pukawa is well away from city lights, so, on a clear, moonless night, bring a rug out onto the lawn to look out for satellites moving across the night sky, help the kids identify the Milky Way, the Pot, The Southern Cross and sometimes if you are lucky, Elon Musk's Satellite Train. Magic!✨️
FISHING For trout fishing, Lake Taupo, the largest lake in the Southern Hemisphere, has incredible fish and Pukawa Stream which comes out into Lake Taupo is a 5 minute walk down the hill. There is a jetty, where you can launch a boat and a large area to park your vehicle down next to the lake. The mighty Tongariro River is a 20 minute drive for awesome fishing or take the kids to the Trout Hatchery on the river. For more trout fishing info please ask as we can advise on flies, good spots to fish etc. Turangi has some good fishing stores for all fishing gear.
WALKING or MOUNTAIN BIKING If you like walking, there are some lovely trails both in Pukawa and nearby. A popular bush walk, or bike ride, goes through beautiful bush to Omori (there is a store here) and Kuratau (cafe here during holidays and some weekends), and another trail is at the top of Hauraki Terrace (the road Hazydaze is on) that has great lake views over the lake. You can also drive for about 20 minutes to walk, or bike, the Tongariro River trail or head towards the mountains (similar drive time) to walk around the beautiful Lake Rotopaunamu. The famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing is about 35 minutes drive from Pukawa.
JUST CHILLIN! If you just want to chill at Hazydaze, we have a large flat and private lawn, surrounded by mature trees and shrubs, perfect for star gazing and playing games like Petanque, cricket and croquet(games found under the stairs inside). Outside there is a brazier and fire pit♨️ for roasting marshmallows over or sit around having a quiet drink in the evening looking down over the valley. Or sit with your morning coffee on the deck looking through the trees to the lake. There's an outdoor picnic table and umbrella on the lawn for a lazy brunch or dinner. If it's wet, it's cozy inside with a heat pump for heating, card games, numerous puzzles, listen to some music or build Lego.
IF YOU LIKE TO COOK The bach has most equipment you are likely to need, including the BBQ on the deck, full oven, bread maker, pots and pans, oven trays and dishes, utensils, food processor etc
ORETI WEDDING VENUE and RESTAURANT Do you have a wedding to attend at Oreti Village or just want to eat at the restaurant and bar? The venue is very close only 3 minutes drive from Hazydaze. You could walk to it, however, there is no footpath or street lights beyond the settlement so you would need to take extra care walking on the road.
GROCERIES It's a 15 mins drive to Turangi for groceries, cafes and restaurants, or for emergencies the Omori Store is open 7 days a week for all the basics including alcohol and sometimes warm bread on the weekends. However, we recommend you bring your groceries with you .... or stop in Turangi, Taupo or Tokoroa on your way?
SKIING There are 2 options for skiing on Mount Ruapehu, one is Whakapapa the other Turoa. There are magnificent views of the surrounding countryside including Mount Ngarahoe right beside Ruapehu and on a clear day you can see all the way to Mount Egmont in Taranaki. Mount Ruapehu is unique for its rocky, volcanic surface, but with good snow, some lovely valleys and plenty of chair lifts and T bars to ferry you up the mountain. You'll take the glass gondola (Sky Waka) up the mountain to the many skifields at the top. Take your own gear or hire from Tokaanu on the way to the mountain or get your gear once you have parked your car. There are buses to take you from lower carparks to the ticket booths, ski hire, cafe and gondola. Take your own snacks or eat at the cafes on the mountain. Its about 50 minutes to the skifield from Hazydaze and Turoa skifield is further around the mountain, about another 30minutes.
SHOPPING Hazydaze is about 15 minutes to Turangi or an 1 hr to Taupo. .
PETS Your dog is most welcome, however please no cats to protect the birdlife in Pukawa, but we also spend time there and have allergies to them.
CLEANING and LINEN Linen is NOT usually included for Vrbo guests, however please ask if required as we can provide @ an additional cost to cover for additional cleaning.
For Airbnb guests linen is included..please take sheets and pillow cases off beds and leave in the bathroom.
We expect and appreciate ALL guests to leave Hazydaze, clean and tidy on departure..
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
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Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No camping on lawns. Limited bathroom facilities
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit
About the area
Pukawa
Located in Pukawa, this chalet is in the city centre and on the waterfront. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Tongariro National Trout Centre, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Tongariro National Park and Lake Taupō. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and waterskiing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking and cycling.
Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre - 12 min drive - 17.5 km
Tongariro National Park - 13 min drive - 18.9 km
Tongariro National Trout Centre - 14 min drive - 20.7 km
Getting around
Taupō Airport (TUO) - 52 min drive
Restaurants
Delta Coffee - 13 min drive
Turangi Tavern - 12 min drive
Floating Rock Cafe - 7 min drive
Turangi Bakery & Cafe - 12 min drive
Thyme For Food - 12 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Bach Pukawa, Lake Taupo. Birds, fishing, pets, wifi, skiing, 5 mins walk to lake pet-friendly?
Yes, this chalet allows dogs (limit 1 total).
How much does it cost to stay at Bach Pukawa, Lake Taupo. Birds, fishing, pets, wifi, skiing, 5 mins walk to lake?
As of 4 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bach Pukawa, Lake Taupo. Birds, fishing, pets, wifi, skiing, 5 mins walk to lake on 6 April 2026 start from NZ$225, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Bach Pukawa, Lake Taupo. Birds, fishing, pets, wifi, skiing, 5 mins walk to lake?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Bach Pukawa, Lake Taupo. Birds, fishing, pets, wifi, skiing, 5 mins walk to lake?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Bach Pukawa, Lake Taupo. Birds, fishing, pets, wifi, skiing, 5 mins walk to lake?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Bach Pukawa, Lake Taupo. Birds, fishing, pets, wifi, skiing, 5 mins walk to lake located?
Located in the heart of Pukawa, this chalet is 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Lake Taupō and 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from Kuratau Jetty. Tokaanu Thermal Pools and Tongariro National Park are also within 12 miles (20 km).
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
great stay, everything we were looking for and great communication from host.
Philip C.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 December 2025
Thank you for your kind words. We are glad you enjoyed your stay at Hazydaze. It's always good to hear that people enjoy a stay in Pukawa, its a special location with all the birds and close to the lake for fishing
Lovely location. Perfect place to relax and unwind
Joanne N.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 December 2025
Thank you for your kind review. Hazydaze is in a great location for all the lovely birdlife and surrounding bush and close to the lake for fishing. So glad you enjoyed your stay. Welcome back anytime
Wonderful property with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Enjoyed using the bbq and fire pit brazier. Shower head and pressure could be improved, and master bed is on the small side but otherwise fantastic. Host provided great communication
Kelly M.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 February 2026
Thanks so much for your review. Yes we agree the shower pressure is low and just before your stay, the mixer was replaced, next is the shower head 😀. Glad you enjoyed your stay. Welcome back any time.
The amenities were excellent, had everything we needed plus more. it was clean. The cabin was good for extra adult, could have their own space. Nice lawn area and was close to the beach.
Kim S.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 8 January 2026
Thank you for your thoughtful review. Great to hear the layout with 2 separate spaces worked well for you. Thank you also for taking great care of Hazydaze. We appreciate it. Welcome back anytime
Very homely feeling and nicely decorated with a lot of artistry
Ruth S.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 October 2025
Thank you for your kind words. Pukawa is a special place in New Zealand that few know about, it's quietness, the birdlife, the bush and local walks and close access to the lake. Thank you for taking care of Hazydaze, welcome back anytime 😊
We absolutely loved our stay. It was perfect for our family and even better that we could bring our dog with us. We enjoyed the beautiful birdlife, the quiet neighbourhood and the lovely local walks. We found the bach to be perfect. Really comfortable and homely. The hosts were so welcoming too!We will certainly be back!
Irene C.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 August 2025
Thank you for taking such good care of Hazydaze and your thoughtful review. We are so pleased you enjoyed Hazydaze and Pukawa. We understand how helpful it is to be able to travel with your dog too and Hazydaze is perfect for that. Welcome back anytime!
We spent several wonderful days at Hazy Daze. Such a comfortable, cozy bach and a great location. Di is an awesome host, extremely responsive, proactive, and helpful. We enjoyed the lake, and the drive to Mt Ruapehu took us only 45 minutes. We'd love to come back!
Oleg P.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 October 2025
So glad to hear you enjoyed your stay at Hazydaze. I know the weather wasn't great, but glad you still got some skiing in and a bit of kayaking i think. Thank you for taking care of Hazydaze, you are very welcome back any time, hopefully with better weather next time😀
Fantastic relaxing holiday. Loved the location and the bach. Everything you need and will definitely be back!
Phillippa C.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 18 October 2024
Thank you for your review and so glad you enjoyed your stay. Its always good to hear that our guests say it was relaxing, as thats what holidays are all about right! Thank you for taking care of Hazydaze, you are more than welcome to stay again anytime.
We enjoyed our stay at hazydaze. Perfect location for a wedding we attended at Oreti and the Bach Had everything we needed. The house was warm and cosy and we will definitely come back and stay again.
Matt D.
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
Always welcome back Matt. Thanks for taking care of HazyDaze and glad you enjoyed your stay
A real Kiwi batch in a great location.
Bush walks, boating and relaxing!
Simon A.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 16 October 2024
Thanks for your review of Hazydaze and pleased you found the bach relaxing. That's what a bach is all about, nothing too precious! Welcome back anytime😀
Awesome place to stay with our pooch and go walking. All the basic things you need at your finger tips (and more) just needed drinks and food.
Meli B.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 April 2024
Glad you enjoyed Hazydaze and taking great care of our bach. Left the bach spic and span thank you. Highly recommend to other bach owners. Welcome back anytime😁
Location perfect, tucked away in privacy but an easy walk to the lake and tracks. The kids loved the bedrooms upstairs, we enjoyed the coziness and unique layout. It was cold in June but the house was warm with the heat pump. Suited our family of five very well.
jo s.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
From a partner site
6/10 Okay
David M.
29 March 2019
Nice location
Nice location. A lot going for the area. Lovely Restaurant 3min away. House was warm an cost and well kept.
David M.
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
Thanks for your review. I am sorry I didn't respond earlier but I didn't know this area existed till today.
We loved our stay here - the house is super comfy and has everything you need. Fantastic location in Pukawa, short walk to the water and the morning chorus was a wonderful way to wake up in the morning! We wished we could stay longer
Katharine M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 27 January 2024
Thank you for your review. It was a pleasure to have you stay at Hazydaze Pukawa and glad you were able to see the great birdlife we have there. Highly recommend these guests to other bach owners. Welcome back anytime
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Geoff H.
1 April 2019
Wonderful bach.
Wonderful bach. Great location. Always enjoy coming here. Thank you for sharing your place.
Geoff H.
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
No problem Geoff. You are always welcome. And thanks for the review only found that it even existed today!
Fantastic A frame and loved being close to the lake
Matthew R.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 11 January 2024
Thanks Matthew glad you enjoyed your stay and thanks for leaving our home spic and span. Welcome back anytime😁
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Ruth C.
5 August 2018
Peaceful getaway
Great little place - well-organised and set-up. Lovely and close to the lake. Even though the weather was pretty bad there was lots to keep us occupied.
Ruth C.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
Thank you for taking care of HazyDaze. And I am sorry the weather wasn't very good that weekend:( You are most welcome back again:)
I see I didnt complete this reply to you I am still finding my way around the site!
The place was great with all the amenities you need. Di was very prompt with answers to all the questions I had. A short walk or a drive leads to the beautiful lake access beach where you can spend the whole summer.
Sumith S.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 February 2024
Thanks for your review and glad you enjoyed Pukawa. Thank you for taking care of Hazydaze. Absolutely recommend to other bach owners.
top notch, 5 minutes walk to Lake Taupo. the bird life is wonderful, we had everything we needed at the house.
thank you Di, and a happy new year to you
Carolyn Ann J.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 January 2024
Thank you for your kind words, and thrilled you enjoyed your stay. The bird life is pretty special, great that the quail had babies this time, they are pretty cute.
Fantastic! We loved the gorgeous A frame and perfect teenage sleepout. The propertu had everything for a relaxing and fun stay. BBQ and firepit and games in superb location. Great communication from hosts. We cant wait to visit again!
Victoria P.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 18 January 2021
Thanks for the great review, you are most welcome to stay anytime.
About the host
Hosted by dianll610
HazyDaze is a family bach we have owned for 42 years. We have 2 children, and 4 grandchildren who all love going to Pukawa, the grandchildren now especially love cooking marshmallows over the brazier. We love travelling to new destinations. My husband is a passionate fisherman, both fly fishing and sea fishing and I love to cook and entertain family and friends. We both love good food and music
Why they chose this property
We bought this property as it had an amazing bird thanks to the bird life that has increased hugely since we bought it, is close to the lake for great trout fishing and water sports, close to the Tongariro River, one of the best trout fishing rivers in the world, and not far to the ski fields at Whakapapa Mt Ruapehu.
What makes this property unique
Abundant native bird life. Awesome bird life. Lake peeks. Pet friendly. Walk to Oreti Restaurant and Timeshare village, a popular venue for a wedding. Walk to the lake for fly fishing in the local stream. Private grounds.
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests