Serenity on the edge of the lake
5.0
Outstanding(118 Reviews)Cottage in Rotorua
8 guests · 4 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Includes essentialsGarden, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Internet / Wifi and more
About this cottage rental
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.
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.
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Rotorua
Reviews
5.0
Outstanding(118 Reviews)5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
Great little character home right on the lake. An old original house that has been modernised and is very comfortable to stay in.
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
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 +++
5.0
Perfect location. The manager was friendly and very thorough. Beautiful sunrises. Big rooms.
5.0
Rob is friendly and a great person. He personally checked us in and made sure we were comfortable in his home. All communication via the app was responded to very quickly. The cottage is lovely, with a lot of character. The view is incredible. I am a chef and cook all over the world in various home stay locations. This was the best equipped kitchen we have found. You will not be in need of any type of pot, pan or utensil. It’s all there. I would absolutely stay there again and I would recommend it highly.
5.0
One of the best rentals we’ve stayed at. Everything was 1st class. Impeccably decorated, every creature comfort you could imagine. Host couldn’t of been more hospitable. Highly recommend.
5.0
The house and location are amazing. Rob provides many nice extra touches,including kayaks you can launch from the yard. We enjoyed several local adventures and just sitting on the deck relaxing and enjoying the lake view.
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
Very well kept property. Everything you needed was at the cottage. Shower was hot and powerful. Very good communication with owner.
5.0
A beautifully presented home with an abundance of options to suit families. Extremely well supplied with bedding, pillows, soft towels, basic condiments of milk, oil, tea, coffee right through to spices, and food wrap. All heating on timers which was appreciated in June! Everything you could need for a short term or long term stay.
5.0
Rob is very organized and helpful. He went out of his way to help us. We only wish we could have stayed longer
5.0
Loved our stay. The location is perfect - right on the lake and close to town. The house is presented to a very high standard with everything you need. Kayaks are great.
Thoroughly recommend.
5.0
Beautiful property in an amazing location.
5.0
Thanks Rob for making us feel welcome and personally meeting us!! Your cottage is such a credit to you with fabulous amenities and right on the lake is spectacular!! Refreshing to have honest description and photos of the cottage!! Would love to come back one day! Highly recommend!
5.0
This property was all we expected it to be and more. The check in process and communication was great. - very detailed! Owner was available at all times though we didn’t need any as everything went well. Linen, towels, toiletries and kitchen equipment were hotel quality. This house was in a perfect location, just by lake side and close to the town centre. Thank you and we’ll be back next time we’re in Rotorua
5.0
Great house with lots of amenities, very close to town
5.0
Rob was very communicative and made sure we had everything we needed. The house overlooks the lake and was very quiet and comfortable. Would stay again if ever in the area
5.0
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!
5.0
We had a lovely week-long stay at Lakeside Cottage, which lived up to its description in every way. A tranquil setting, immaculately presented home, convenient location. Our host even provided some celebratory extras when he learned one of our party was celebrating a birthday. Highly recommend :)
5.0
Rob is such a great host - made us welcome and lots of advice on local activities. House is a great location walking distance from town but quiet. Should have stayed longer!
5.0
This is a well-appointed property, comfortable and with all (or more than) the comforts of home. It's roomy and with a great location on the lake front and only a short distance to the CBD... and it's much much more pleasant than a soulless hotel. Rob, the host, is excellent with great communication.
5.0
Rob was a great host and the cottage was lovely and inviting. The location on the lake was amazing and it had a great outlook. The cottage itself was very comfortable, great heating, fantastic beds and pillows with lovely quality linen. We were impressed with the attention to detail and how well stocked the cottage was. Rob goes out of his way to ensure that you have a comfortable stay.
5.0
I can highly recommend Serenity on the edge of the lake.
Rob was amazing he went above and beyond to make our first overseas trip so rememberable.
Thank you 😊
5.0
Rob was a fantastic host, who gave us a good detailed tour of the house when we arrived, and was very accommodating to our needs!
The house was very clean and in a beautiful location, right next to the lake! Kayak’s were a great addition and lots of fun to use!
Everything we could possibly need for the stay were provided, from breakfast items, to tea and coffee. Even had a bath with spa jets!
Would highly recommend staying in this place. Thanks Rob!
5.0
Fantastic location and quality of accom
5.0
What a special property. Everything you need for a warm, comfortable stay. Rob is such a pleasant and informative host. We all loved our time here.
5.0
Superb property and host
What a special property. Everything you need for a warm, comfortable stay. Rob is such a pleasant and informative host. We all loved our time here.
5.0
Incredible Lake Front Stay in Rotorua!
Stayed two nights in NZ’s winter! We travelled as a family of five with two teens and a seven year old. Rob’s lakefront cottage is absolutely perfect for families and well appointed with everything you require. The check in process was wonderful and Rob provided us with helpful information about both the property and the area. He even left us a bottle of bubbly as we were celebrating our 30th anniversary later in the month. The kids enjoyed the kayaks and my husband and I loved the fireplace and the beautiful lake views from the “Lake Bedroom”. The beds are all comfy and include electric blankets. The kitchen has everything you need to cook a full meal. We had a brilliant stay and absolutely would recommend this lovely cottage to families and couples alike! The kids are already asking if we can return when it is “summer down under”! I really hope we can too!
5.0
Sensational views
Very impressed. Will be back. Couldn’t have asked for anything more. Rob was an excellent host.
5.0
The property was wonderfully presented and decorated, absolutely immaculate in every respect, had everything you could wish for - warmth, amazing views, a great host, central to everything. We would love to stay there again sometime - thanks Rob
5.0
Wonderful facility
The property was wonderfully presented and decorated, absolutely immaculate in every respect, had everything you could wish for - warmth, amazing views, a great host, central to everything. We would love to stay there again sometime - thanks Rob
5.0
Fantastic setting with an awesome host!
Very peaceful and serene setting with top quality facilities and a fantastic host. Highly recommend!
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Rotorua?
The average price for a rental in Rotorua is $232 per night. This rental is $120 above the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Serenity on the edge of the lake. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Serenity on the edge of the lake pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Serenity on the edge of the lake?
We found 10 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, parking, and laundry.
Explore similar vacation rentals in Rotorua
Explore all rentals in RotoruaRotorua travel inspiration
Read our blogGuides
Top Things to Do in Miami: From Beaches to Culture
Guides
The Best Things to Do in Orlando: Attractions, Food, and Family Fun
Guides
Things to Do in Galveston, Texas
Guides
Top Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
Guides
Ski Trip Packing List: What to Bring Skiing or Snowboarding
Trends
VacationRenter Holiday Travel Trends 2023
Featured Rentals
Architectural Vacation Rentals: Experience the Beauty of Unique Properties
Featured Rentals
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Vacation Rentals Around the World