Entire home

Serenity on the Edge of the Lake

Lakefront cottage with kitchen and balcony

Photo gallery for Serenity on the Edge of the Lake

Dramatic sunrise over the lake (August 2019)
Lounge showing entertainment system
Lounge seating and gas log fire
Dining table set for eight guests
View of the dining room

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8126 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
Koutu, Bay Of Plenty
  • Place, Lake Rotorua
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Kuirau Park
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Place, Eat Street
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Rotorua (ROT-Rotorua Regional)
    ‪14 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Entranceway Bedroom (on request)

1 Double Bed

Garden Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Lakefront Bedroom

1 King Bed

Middle Bedroom

2 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Blue Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

Red Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Jetted bathtub · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Office
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Serenity on the Edge of the Lake

ABSOLUTE LAKEFRONT! Lakefront Cottage is situated just 10 steps from Lake Rotorua with breath-taking views around the caldera, across to Mokoia Island and over to Mount Tarawera. The location is very quiet, but it is only a short walk (15-20 mins) or taxi ride to the bustle of the CBD. The property is a tastefully renovated 3-Bedroom (optional 4th Bedroom) cottage with a range of amenities to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. There is ample parking for at least four vehicles.

UPDATE FOR WINTER 2024: We understand the importance of guest comfort, particularly in the winter months when it can get chilly in Rotorua. Consequently we have just installed a new heating system controlled by individual room thermostats throughout the cottage. This system is programmed to keep the temperature at comfortable levels 24/7. Cosiness guaranteed!

OUR OFFER: We understand the importance of making our lovely cottage an attractive option for our potential visitors (domestic and international), so we offer the following:

- Competitive nightly rates, includes lower rates for Sunday - Thursday stays and discounts for stays of seven days or longer.

- Instant booking and the most flexible booking conditions available so you can cancel or re-book without penalty.

- A register of available activities in Rotorua, including opening times, dates, approximate cost and contact details.

- Personal service. When possible I will greet you at the cottage, and make sure that you are settled in. Of course, you can choose to check in with a lock box if you prefer.

- Early check in and late check out to suit your travel needs AT NO EXTRA COST. This is subject to other bookings, but we promise to be as flexible as possible.

OUR COTTAGE - A DETAILED DESCRIPTION
We are absolute lakefront, but that is just the start. Over the years we have fully renovated the property to provide maximum comfort and convenience for our guests.

THE BEDROOMS
All of our bedrooms are a generous size, with dimmable mood lighting.

The Lake Bedroom has panoramic views over the lake. You can go to sleep with the relaxing sound of the water lapping just metres (or yards) away. It has a king bed, a comfortable window seat, and a 46” wall-mounted (full motion) HD TV connected to Sky / Netflix. There is direct access to the lakeside deck. This room has ample storage space with two large built-in wardrobes, a vanity and bedside tables.

The Middle Bedroom is a smaller room with partial views of the lake. It can be configured as either two king singles or a California king bed. It also has built-in wardrobes.

The Garden Bedroom has access to the rear patio area and garden through a sliding door. It has a queen bed and a wall-mounted bluetooth sound system. Again, this room has a built-in wardrobe, vanity and bedside tables.

Our good-sized Entranceway can be used as an office space with desk and printer, a play area, or as an extra bedroom. The bed is a double sized sofa bed with an added thick and comfortable memory foam mattress. There is also storage space for clothes etc. We have kept or maximum occupancy at eight, but this facility gives our guests more sleeping options. Great for larger families or groups of four couples.

There are two Italian foldaway slat beds for up to two extra guests if required. We also have an extra long camp bed for taller guests. Both the Lake and Garden bedrooms can fit two slat beds if needed without getting overcrowded.

Quality freshly-laundered linen and towels are included, with a choice of pillows (feather, fibre and memory foam) and duvets (down, feather, wool, synthetic) to suit the season and your comfort.

BATHROOMS

The property has two bathrooms with showers and Rinnai constant hot water. Bathroom 1 includes a washer and dryer, and an auto-filling spa bath. Bathroom 2 has a custom laundry unit for handwashing smaller items.

FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE

We always offer early check-in and late check-out, subject to other bookings for the same day. We also have cooking ingredients (herbs, spices, condiments, oils, etc) other conveniences (cling film, foil, baking paper etc) and a wide range of kitchen utensils for your use. This includes a nutribullet, rice cooker, air fryer, banquet frypan and Dolce Gusto coffee machine.

CHILD-FRIENDLY

The property is fully fenced. We also have a portacot with changing table and a multi-function high chair for guest use. We also have a well-stocked toy chest, and a cupboard in the kitchen for games and books.

FOR YOUR SAFETY

All of our appliances and electric blankets are safety tagged. We also have monitored smoke and fire detectors, a CO alarm, self-activated lighting around the property and a comprehensive first aid kit. Rotorua is an active geothermal area, so ‘just in case’ we have emergency supplies as recommended by Civil Defence, and emergency heating and lighting.

FOR YOUR SECURITY

The area is very safe, but we do have a monitored alarm that can be controlled by our guests. We also have two security cameras that can be set up to monitor the property while you are away. Neither camera looks directly at the cottage to preserve your privacy. The garage - which can be used for storing up to six mountain bikes - is also alarmed. There is a combination safe in the Lake Bedroom for your valuables.

FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT:

55” 4K smart TV in the lounge with 5.1 soundbar, Netflix and Sky / Sky Sport (multi-room). We also have a collection recent and classic DVDs and a separate sound system that includes an FM radio and cassette player (...remember those?). A selection of board games for those rainy days. Unlimited fibre fast broadband (325Mbps download) is included.

The property has two patio areas with tables and umbrellas. The rear area is sheltered and has a fixed brick BBQ. The lakeside area has a new hooded BBQ. We now have nine kayaks (four adult-size, two fishing kayaks, one twin kayak, two child size) for exploring the lake. We also have a range of safety jacket sizes.

FOR THE ENVIRONMENT:

We use environmentally-friendly toiletries and cleaning materials where we can. Composting of greenwaste is available and encouraged.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

PLEASE, NO PARTYING! We stress that this is a very quiet spot, so no unreasonable noise after 10pm. We are prepared to enforce this as necessary to preserve the special ambience of the lakeside.

Rob and Marie warmly welcome you to our special place. Rob will be at the cottage to meet you and make sure that your party is comfortable and settled in. We will strive to ensure that your stay is relaxing, enjoyable and refreshing.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
This will be strictly enforced
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Extra cleaning fee $350 may be charged

Important information

You need to know

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: This will be strictly enforced
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Rotorua

Located on the waterfront, this cottage is in Koutu, a neighbourhood in Rotorua. Tama-te-Kapua Meeting House and Blue Baths are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include DriftKartz and Waimangu Cauldron. Travelling with kids? Consider Skyline Rotorua, or check out an event or a game at Ogo. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Koutu, Bay Of Plenty

What's nearby

  • Lake Rotorua - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Kuirau Park - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Rotorua Hospital - 19 min walk - 1.7 km
  • Eat Street - 3 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Rotorua Night Market - 3 min drive - 2.5 km

Getting around

  • Rotorua (ROT-Rotorua Regional) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Gold Star Bakery - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪KFC - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Subway - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Wildbean Cafe - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Serenity on the Edge of the Lake pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Serenity on the Edge of the Lake?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Serenity on the Edge of the Lake?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Serenity on the Edge of the Lake?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Serenity on the Edge of the Lake located?

This family-friendly Rotorua cottage is located on the waterfront, within a 15-minute walk of Lake Rotorua, DriftKartz and Kuirau Park. Tribal Lights Cultural Theatre and Rotorua Hospital are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

9.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 130 out of 130 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 130 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 130 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 130 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 130 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Joanne

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful property in an amazing location.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Betty Boop

Awesome in all respects. We were met by Rob, our host who walked us through the property. Absolutely everything you might need was available. The four of us were blown away by how our hosts went the extra mile to ensure our stay was super enjoyable and relaxing.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

CHRIS K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for us

We very much enjoyed the location, the cleanliness, the top notch accimodations, and the welcoming friendliness. It was everything we hoped for and more. Thanks so much.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michael C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location, Great house, Fantastic Host!

I have probably stayed at a few dozen VRBO properties over the last few years and Rob is by far the best host/manager! The house is very comfortable and incredibly well-appointed. Everything is extremely well organized and Rob was always a text/phone call away to answer our questions. Having coffee every morning on the back porch and watching the swans and ducks in the morning was a pleasure. Great location, close to so many things to do.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kari H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One of the best!

Would love to come back. We've rented quite a few through vrbo and Rob's is one in a million. Too many amenities to list. Beautiful!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Felicity B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden gem

We thoroughly enjoyed our 3 nights at this property and could have happily stayed longer. This is a lovely character filled cottage located just a short drive from town, but easily walkable too. Rob is an outstanding host, he has thought of everything you could possibly need. He met us on check in to show us around and had lots of tips to help us make the most of our time in Rotorua. Highly recommend and we will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carleen G., Tauranga New Zealand

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Group of 7 ladies.

A fab place for a group and handy location. A lot of attention to detail. Great linen and beds. Everything thought of which we really appreciated. Decent crockery and everything you could possibly need. Very comfortable thank you.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chuck B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfort with a View

Our family stayed at this lovely home arriving November 24 and departing on the 26th. Rob had very detailed instructions on the use of the property which made our stay most enjoyable. The view of Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island out back was stunning to say the least. It was a great home base for us to tour Hobbiton, Kuirau Park, Agrodome, Mitai Maori Village, and the other attractions based in the Rotorua area. We would highly recommend this property to anyone wishing to explore this part of New Zealand.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brigitte O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Winter getaway

Thanks Rob. We had a terrific few days away. The cottage was warm, furnished and had all the extra necessities to make our stay as easy as possible. Our kids enjoyed the lake front, in particular the kayaks. On a cold winters morning it was a great way to start the day. We’ll back for sure. Next time in summer. Thanks for the warm welcome and hospitality.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Raewyn R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful

We had a wonderful stay. The weather was not great but the house was well equipped with games and there were covered outdoor spaces to still enjoy the outdoors. When the sun did shine on us the family thoroughly enjoyed the kayaks, the barbecue and the visiting swans. Having two bathrooms was so nice but every little luxury throughout the house has been thought of... fluffy towels, quality shampoo and bathroom products, great coffee.... This is a quality rental that cares about the small details, and knows how to make a stay a great one. Thanks for the great family memories for our grandchildren.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

ANNE M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Home Away From Home

Had read many previous reviews complimenting the property owner, and have to say that Rob was absolutely amazing. We were not scheduled to arrive until evening and yet he volunteered to meet us at the property to show us around, both inside and outside, and ensure that we were settled in and comfortable. Rob had all kinds of information available, from places to eat and things to do, which helped to confirm our previous online searching. Due to our luggage being delayed, we needed to purchase some clothing items, and Rob was able to direct us to an economical store option. It was wonderful to stay at this home; very comfortable, quiet, and relaxing. The views of the lake were amazing and we enjoyed seeing crew of rowers on the lake each morning. We could not have asked for a more perfect place to stay; only wish we could have stayed longer.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nichole T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely location
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Martha K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Oh gosh what a great place. It served our needs perfectly. View was excellent though, sadly, seasonal and rainy. The place was well equipped with everything we could have needed. Could not have asked for anything more.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Virginia N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Cottage was perfect in every way. Rob is an amazing host and we had everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing property

The property is absolutely gorgeous, the host goes above and beyond, and there is an abundance of equipment: towels, kayaks, heaters, sky tv, etc. Our stay was wonderful!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it! Didn't want to leave

We absolutely loved this place and could not have asked for better accommodation and hospitality. The house was beautiful, cosy and very clean and tidy. It had everything we could ever need or want and a few new exciting things to explore, including a TV sound bar and plenty of kayaks for lots of water fun.Being right on the lake was such a great experience for our family. The location was picturesque and super handy to lots of local attractions and a supermarket. Rob was a fantastic host and offered ideas for our stay, especially as it was over New Years Eve. We would 100% recommend staying here. Staying in such a beautiful place really enhanced our time in Rotorua, alongside all the fun local attractions. Thanks so much Rob, we will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lauren M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best accommodation

We had a fabulous time at this property. Rob had thought of everything and our stay could not have been better.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrea R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect spot to relax

We couldn’t recommend Rob’s house more highly. He has thought of everything to make for a super-relaxing and comfortable stay. The kids loved the kayaks, and the view from the main bedroom and decks is stunning.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Rob is an amazing host! His cottage is well kept up and he provides lots of nice little touches that made our staff very enjoyable!! The view of the lake is amazing!! Lots of space! Would definitely recommend this place!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Clare B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location and house

Property is right on the lake, with great privacy and still a stunning view, beds were super comfy and all made up with top quality linen, and everything was very well described, with very detailed information about everything. Rob met us at the property and explained in detail all aspects of the house. Being locals who often book baches, we could probably have had less information at this stage given the supporting handouts. The gas fire does not work, and heating is automated that is set by the owner, who checked in with us that the temperature worked for us. We used the foyer/4th bedroom. The garden room is accessed through this space. Overall it was a fantastic stay in a very well presented home with excellent support and information from the host.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Erin W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just as described!

My family of four absolutely loved our stay here. Clean, spacious, and comfortable, and just like the pictures. Swans were just outside and the view was spectacular. Everything you need is there and Rob is extremely kind and has all of the information you need to make for a great stay. If I’m ever in Rotorua again, I will stay here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Trana M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ultimate SERENITY

Rob went out of his way to meet us and go over all the amazing amenities his place has to offer. Out of 6 places we reserved, this was my favorite. I felt so comfortable. It was a home away from our home. It was immaculately clean, spacious, comfy beds, perfect temperature, different ways to have your morning coffee, kayaks, bird life all around----oh I could go on and on. It was by far my favorite, and I wish we would have more days in this oasis. Rob set the bar high, for all of the other VRBO's on our first time to New Zealand. I was quite impressed. The information booklets left are above and beyond, which is quite nice when you are traveling internationally. It takes a bit to get your bearings.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This is lovely and spacious home right on the lake. Plenty of room and a kitchen fully stocked. Rob, our gracious, helpful and ever-available host, even provided milk and butter for us. Perfect base from which to explore the greater Rotorua area. Truly Serenity on the Lake.

10/10 Excellent

Jared L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing by the lake

Great little character home right on the lake. An old original house that has been modernised and is very comfortable to stay in.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marcia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful spot in Rotorua

By far, this is the best equipped property I have stayed in through VRBO. Our host met us at check-in and gave us an overview of the amenities and answered all our questions about the area. We enjoyed feeling "at home" in this beautiful lakefront cottage. Beds were very comfortable and we took full advantage of the laundry facilities. Rob checked with us during our visit to see if we needed anything else. Highly recommend this property and hope to visit again. 5 stars +++
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

About the host

Hosted by Rob Steadman

Host profile image
I am a project manager by profession, and I'm taking a break to concentrate on hospitality. I'm originally from the UK, but I've lived in NZ for 30 years. I'm married to the lovely Marie, who is a Health & Safety professional, and I have two grown-up daughters. I take hospitality very seriously, and will always go the extra mile to make your stay special. Check our reviews!

Why they chose this property

We were very fortunate to get the opportunity to buy this lakeside property - they very rarely come on the market. We fell in love with the place on first viewing, and that hasn't changed over the years. It is our privilege to share our cottage with guests from all over the world.

What makes this property unique

The position on the absolute lakefront is a benefit that is rare among Rotorua properties. The area is very quiet, and the only noise that can be heard at night is the lapping of the waves.

Languages:

English, Swedish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests