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Kapowai Cottage retreat

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Large undercover space to enjoy the outdoors in all weather and lake views
Undercover and the outdoors areas with views to Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island
Views to Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island from large covered area for relaxing
Outdoor dining
Large undercover area with outdoor furniture, bean bags and seating for relaxing

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 490 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Beach view
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Washer
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Holdens Bay, Bay Of Plenty
  • Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Polynesian Spa
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Skyline Rotorua
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Rotorua (ROT-Rotorua Regional)
    ‪18 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Main

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Kapowai Cottage retreat

Kapowai (Dragonfly) Cottage is a premium self-contained holiday retreat.
Intimate and sophisticated, large covered outdoor relaxing space, with views to Lake Rotorua.

Quality pillows, duvet, blankets and Linen included.

Double glazed and reverse cycle Heat pumps for year round comfort. Solar heated hot water.


Free Unlimited Ultrafast Fibre WiFi.
For entertainment: Smart Panasonic Android TV, Stereo with radio and CD player (CDs provided), Library with assorted novels, board games and cards.

2 bedrooms with Queen sized beds, catering for a maximum of 4 people. Mattress is fully encased and pillows have fitted protectors.

Full kitchen: bar fridge, oven, hobs, dishwasher, microwave, jug and toaster, and all utensils. Tea, coffee (a French Press plunger is available) and sugar provided.

Our undercover outside area is great for dining and relaxing. Outdoor seats have footstools for extra comfort while enjoying the view or reading a book.

The modern bathroom has a large shower with Shower-Dome, toilet and vanity with mirror. Hair dryer and straightener available for guest use.

Laundry (attached to garage) has washing machine, drier and tub. Ironing board and iron.
Clothesline. Clothes airer for use inside or on the covered deck.
An outdoor undercover area is provided for cleaning and storing mountain bikes and wet weather gear. Hose and bucket provided.

Smoke detectors, a fire extinguisher and first aid kit.

Outdoor set of draughts/ chess and 2 hole mini putt course.

Free parking space is provided off street near the front door. (For security and vehicle safety an outside Security Camera monitors this space )There is additional off street parking on the grassed area for larger vehicles. Bikes may be stored in the undercover area.

Children are welcome but be aware the property is not fully fenced and open to the road. There is no direct lake access via the house in front. Access is two minutes walk to Holdens Bay Reserve 50m away.

Close to Wai Ora Spa Resort, parks, reserves and the lake for quiet walks and fresh air. Attractions including Redwoods Forest mountain biking, Hells Gate, Okere Falls rafting, Buried Village and Lake Tarawera, Lake Okareka and the Blue Lake, all close by. Easy drive to city shops and restaurants.

Hannahs Bay Reserve is a 5 min walk with children's playground, wetlands boardwalk and beach with safe swimming areas in Lake Rotorua.

Environmentally friendly hosts encourage reusing, recycling, conserving water and energy.

Property manager

Alison Haines

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Beach view

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Not completely fenced and open to road.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
There is no smoking anywhere on the property.

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
This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products
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

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Rotorua

Located on a lake, this cottage is in Holdens Bay, a neighbourhood in Rotorua. Te Amorangi Museum and Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village are local landmarks, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Rotorua Central Mall and Rotorua Night Market. Travelling with kids? Consider Skyline Rotorua and Waimangu Cauldron. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Holdens Bay, Bay Of Plenty

What's nearby

  • Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest - 7 min drive - 5.8 km
  • Tamaki Maori Village - 10 min drive - 8.2 km
  • Polynesian Spa - 10 min drive - 8.4 km
  • Eat Street - 10 min drive - 8.7 km
  • Skyline Rotorua - 15 min drive - 13.0 km

Getting around

  • Rotorua (ROT-Rotorua Regional) - 4 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Bp - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Saigon '60S Vietnamese Cuisine - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Burgerfuel - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Brew | Craft Beer Pub - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Lady Jane's Ice Cream Parlour - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Kapowai Cottage retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Kapowai Cottage retreat?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Kapowai Cottage retreat?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Kapowai Cottage retreat located?

This family-friendly Rotorua cottage is located on a lake, within a 10-minute walk of Lake Rotorua and Te Amorangi Museum. Haiku Pathway is 2.2 mi (3.5 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 61 out of 66 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 66 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 66 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 66 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 66 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jude R.

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

Perfect Stay

Immaculate property in a peaceful setting with great hosts who had thought of all our needs before we knew we had them.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Donna P.

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

Perfect for a weekend away

All aspects of the property exceed our expectations. It is a quaint property with plenty of space.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pam R.

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

Peaceful easy feeling

This spot is a hidden gem. Peaceful, comfortable and close to everything. Thanks for having us.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard C.

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

Lovely Bach; great location; delightful hosts

Delightful, comfortable, well appointed two bedroom Bach on the lakeshore with easy access to Rotorua. Highly recommended.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Angela F.

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

Cosy

For the purpose of our stay this property was perfect. Driveway was a bit tight for our big vehicle, but we were able to park just outside. It was a shame there was someone in the place just infront who parked their car in line with our lake view. Everything there you could possibly need. Felt secure and safe.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Georgina L.

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

Awesome stay

We loved our stay at this house. The hosts Ali and Marc have really thought about all the little things - including a step for our kids to use the toilet. Lovely outdoor space, great shower (always important), comfy beds and well equipped kitchen.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Allison C., Napier

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

ENJOYABLE STAY

We thoroughly enjoyed our weekend here and had a lovely relaxing time. The bed was comfortable and so were the chairs with footstools. Fully equipped amenities with everything you needed. Clean and tidy home, a pleasure to stay in.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dael M., Whitianga New Zealand

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

Beyond expectation

Great place to stay. Had everything you need, sneak view of the lake, clean, quiet and very homely. Lovely welcome to the property and even a bottle of wine.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lianca S.

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

Home away from home

Very lovely homely experience. We were made to feel at ease from the beginning. What a welcoming feel from the manager of the cottage & lovely unexpected birthday surprise for my son's birthday.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cara F.

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

Lovely stay

From booking, through to our departure, Alison was so thoughtful. Our 6yo was thrilled to see the birthday message, and the welcome treats were much appreciated!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melia L.

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

Marvellous house

We have spent a lovely time in this house. Very clean, quiet and comfortable. Kapowai cottage is very fabulous and a perfect home. Alison and Marc are friendly and welcoming hosts. We hope to come back there on our next travel. I highly recommend this cottage.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sara D.

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

Winter trip

Excellent for our family stay. The kids loved the mini golf hole. A little way out of town but fine if you have your own transport and want to be away from the crowds but still close to activities.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jess W.

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

Lovely place

Very nice house comfortable and in a great spot . Hosts were amazing Highly recommended
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Gillian I.

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

A little gem

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay - thoughtful touches throughout, from home baked biscuits, little chocolates to lovely snuggly throws for inside and out. A special place where the hosts still believe in the little extras. V quiet and comfortable. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tanya L.

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

Relaxing retreat

Such a lovely quiet place to stay for a relaxing holiday and yet so close to all the action when needed! Thank you for having us.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Gayathri c.

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

Absolutely enjoyed the stay

The holiday house was very tidy and neat. I loved the location and had great fun. Both the bedrooms were very clean and could find all necessary things inside the house. The lake was very reachable and both my daughters enjoyed a lot. The lazy chair is a hit.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Giordana S.

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

Welcoming

Lovely environment and welcoming from owners. We enjoyed the quietness, the lake proximity and easy access to various activities.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lisa W.

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

Lakeside cottage

We had a fabulous holiday - nice house, lovely location, great hosts.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Susan P.

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

Everything is there

Alison and Marc met us at the property to show us various things. Fresh scones were a lovely, and welcome touch. I was impressed that everything we needed was there and would definitely return. I especially liked the quietness. Susan
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Courtney H.

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

Perfect stay for a weeks get away!

Loved every minute here!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Erika S., Onemana, New Zealand

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

Great location

Clean, comfortable, well equipped, great amenities and superb location, walking distance to Lake, great walk nearby . Every thing you need close by
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Hannah K.

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

Felt instantly relaxed

We didn't want to leave! Gorgeous location, with living room looking out to the lake. Really comfortable accom, with a short drive to city centre. Left my a box of Rose's and a note wishing me a happy mother's day. Was a lovely place to spend our first holiday away as a family (with our 6 month old son).
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

8/10 Good

Sarah B.

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

Autumn in Holden's Bay

Pros: Clean tidy cottage with good facilities & location. Very large masterbedroom and comfortable beds. Sunny patio area. Cons: Outside of summer, it's not easy to dry clothes. Having a washing machine & dryer that are quick and efficient to use as well as removing the timer from the heated towel rail would be an improvement. Also parking is tight so if you have a bike rack on your vehicle it may/or may not fit in the most secure parking option.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Chris M.

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

Loved it, great break for our family

Great experience, cool spot!!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Darren M., Wellington

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

Great location for the kids

Great property for the family. So close to the lake and all Rotorua has to offer. House was thoughtfully set up and had everything we needed. The kids loved playing with the mini putt putt hole. The owners were very prompt with their communication and even offered to drop around a paddling pool for the kids during a heatwave!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2021

About the host

Hosted by Alison Haines

Host profile image
Born and bred Kiwis, Marc and I have travelled extensively both nationally and internationally. We love finding hidden new places, experiencing new cultures and traditions. We now live and work in Rotorua and love the Bay of Plenty lifestyle. Because we are local we have extensive knowledge of Rotorua and the North Island and can advise on great hot pools, tourist attractions, walking trails, activities, eateries and where to get a great coffee and meals catering for all cuisines and tastes.

Why they chose this property

Fully renovated cottage, double glazed, modern and comfortable while maintaining the charm of her mid century beginnings. Everything provided for a great holiday. Great views and location near the lake. Very quiet cul de sac away from the main road but only 10 minutes to Redwoods Forest,Mountain Biking trails, Te Puia and Rotorua City. Lake Tarawera, Blue and Green Lakes are a short drive away. Close to beautiful walks along the lake and through wetland reserves with regenerating native bush (including Kahikatea) and birdlife. Near the Airport walking distance and bus stop nearby.

What makes this property unique

Two hole Mini putt Golf for guest use only. Lake views, quiet and relaxing environment, native birdsong, many walking tracks. Being close to Rotorua airport (2 km), on bus route, in tree lined residential area but only 10 minute drive to the city or to Redwoods Forest MTB trials and easy driving the other beautiful lakes. Wai Ora Spa is around the corner for massages , beauty treatments or Restaurant meals . Lake Rotorua is great for swimming, kayaking or trout fishing (with a licence). Hells Gate and other lakes suitable for swimming are an easy drive from the cottage.

Languages:

English