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Spacious lakeside retreat at The Willows, Lake Rotorua

Photo gallery for Spacious lakeside retreat at The Willows, Lake Rotorua

Spa overlooking the Lake
Aerial view of property - Spring 2016
Another aerial view
Aerial view
Aerial view - Spring 2016

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
6 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 12315 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Rotorua, Bay of Plenty Region
  • Place, Lake Rotorua
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Skyline Rotorua
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Mitai Maori Village
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Airport, Rotorua (ROT-Rotorua Regional)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed and 3 Single Beds

Bedroom 5

1 King Bed

Bedroom 6

1 Single Bed

Living Room 1

2 Double Sofa Beds

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

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

About this property

Spacious lakeside retreat at The Willows, Lake Rotorua

Affordable comfort at Kawaha Point. Lovely, generously appointed two level, 4 bedroom home in a stunning setting - the perfect lake edge family holiday location.

Sleeps up to 12 comfortably so is ideal for two or three families wanting to share a holiday experience and costs. Also ideal for family reunions, team building weekends, responsible sports groups and business get-togethers. No large, noisy gatherings exceeding 15 people. Please keep noise down after 10 pm in consideration of neighbours.

Open plan design with two lounges and three separate deck areas. Large deck adjacent to new kitchen has magnificent views over Lake Rotorua and Rotorua City. Front deck includes BBQ. Garage has gym equipment. Home theatre lounge has 65" TV, Sky Sport, Netflix, Neon, YouTube and over 1000 DVD movies. There is a separate conversation lounge or kids lounge with TV and DVD player (with dozens of kids DVDs).

Under floor gas heating and two cosy log fires with wood supplied during winter. All linen, towels and cooking utensils are provided.

The property is private and secluded with beautiful gardens, has a new spa overlooking the lake and city, and is only 3 kms from CBD. Short walk to local dairy and bus stop. Handy to Rotorua's world famous thermal attractions, geysers and mud pools. 15 minute walk to gondolas, luge and Rainbow Springs. Handy to all of the other Rotorua Lakes, Bay of Plenty beaches and Mount Ruapehu for skiing. Disabled access.

Garaging, if required. Boat ramps are close by and there is room to park the jet ski or a small boat. There are 7 kayaks available for guest use.

Self contained apartment above garage with internal access has king bed in bedsit/lounge/kitchenette area, separate single bedroom, separate shower and toilet, and is available for an additional $150 per night.

Extras: Cleaning (NZ$90.00 per stay); Linen (included);

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
Family birthday/anniversary celebrations allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 2 total
By arrangement
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Only outside the property

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
If leaving on a Thursday morning, please take the wheelie bins up to the kerbside
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please keep outside noise down after 10pm, and when using the spa and on the deck near the garage which is adjacent to my neighbour's bedroom

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: Family birthday/anniversary celebrations allowed
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 required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Rotorua

Located on the waterfront, this holiday home is in Kawaha Point, a neighbourhood in Rotorua. Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park and Mount Ngongotaha reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Skyline Rotorua and DriftKartz. Travelling with kids? Consider Matariki Hangi & Maori Cultural Performance and Luge Rotorua. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Rotorua, Bay of Plenty Region

What's nearby

  • Lake Rotorua - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Skyline Rotorua - 2 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Volcanic Hills Winery - 2 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Mitai Maori Village - 2 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park - 2 min drive - 2.2 km

Getting around

  • Rotorua (ROT-Rotorua Regional) - 20 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Wildbean Cafe - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Gold Star Bakery - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Royal Indian Restaurant Tandoori Cuisine - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪KFC - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Spacious lakeside retreat at The Willows, Lake Rotorua pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Spacious lakeside retreat at The Willows, Lake Rotorua?

As of 30 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Spacious lakeside retreat at The Willows, Lake Rotorua on 5 May 2026 start from AU$330, 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 Spacious lakeside retreat at The Willows, Lake Rotorua?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Spacious lakeside retreat at The Willows, Lake Rotorua?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Spacious lakeside retreat at The Willows, Lake Rotorua?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Spacious lakeside retreat at The Willows, Lake Rotorua located?

This family-friendly Rotorua holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 2 mi (3 km) of Lake Rotorua, Skyline Rotorua and DriftKartz. Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park and Mitai Maori Village are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 92 out of 115 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 21 out of 115 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 115 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 115 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 115 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

James R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing view/location, really well equiped home. Had everything we needed.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great house in beautiful garden. Great location
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jane H.

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

Amazing house right on the lake!

So much space, so many facilities. The kitchen had everything you need and we loved the number of seperate spaces to chill. Amazing to be right on the lake. Loved our stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

You Joon K.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great bach, beautiful surroundings, gardens, all amenities were perfect

10/10 experience and definitely keen to return. Wider family had a great time. Cleanliness such as dusty carpets in corners, under bed etc left a little to be desired but still very good.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Geoff and Liz F.

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

Memorable holiday spot

This is a beautiful spot on lake Rotorua. The house was spacious with plenty of room for all ages to spread out. Young ones had a great time with the big screen while the adults chatted in peace.A great location,heaps of room provided for a wonderful family gathering
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael L.

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

Terrific

Beautiful view. Plenty of room. Private and comfortable.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dolores H.

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

Perfect location. Very roomy house. Beautiful yard Loved our stay

Just minutes from so many attractions. And after a long day it was so great to come back to BBQ and then relax in the hot tub or enjoy a movie in the movie room. Also Loved canoeing on the lake
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kirsten W.

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

Fantastic Family House

We had our annual family Easter holiday at the Willows and loved it. The house is big enough for everyone to have their own space, location is great and the communication with Kerry made our time away seamless.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

erin j.

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

Relaxing

The house was perfect for our needs.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mike H.

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

Fantastic - Great View

Best place we stayed in New Zealand. Had everything we needed. Super location, great owner, wonderful view, Gardener showed up while we were there just to keep the yard looking great. Wish we had more time there.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Fay K.

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

Wonderful

Beautiful home, wonderful experience! We enjoyed every second :)
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

George Y.

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

Great

Beautiful location, lovely garden and lake view. Room for the whole whānau and then some with even more space left over. Would stay here again. Thanks for having us
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Fabulous!

What a fabulous spot! We had an amazing time great for large gatherings and picturesque views. Kerry was very communicative will definately use again
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah P.

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

Can't wait to go back

We had a blissful week at the Willows. The property was perfect for our group, with loads of space & separate areas & bedroom configurations. The kitchen was probably the most stocked we've ever seen with crockery, glasses, mugs, cutlery etc. We are looking forward to staying here again next time we're in Rotorua.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth S.

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

Outstanding

Beautiful location on the lake. Spacious and easily fit our family members with room to spread out in smaller groups. View from deck and kitchen were stunning. We really enjoyed this house. Kerry was very communicative.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nigel M.

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

Comfortable and great location

The Willows is in a great location, and the view from the property is fantastic. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a spa while looking out across the lake. The home is large, spacious, and incredibly well stocked. The beds were comfortable as was the living room furniture. If it's a cold day crank up one or both fireplaces for a cozy atmosphere. If the weather has truly killed your plans for the day there must be well over 1000 BluRay/DVDs to choose from!Would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Merrin J.

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

Large luxe lake house!

Fabulous place! Spacious, premium views of the lake. Great dvd and cd collection. Great kitchen with even better views! Beautiful garden . 5 star property! Kerry is a Friendly, helpful and gave great recommendations for cafes/ restaurants
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laurie S.

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

Perfect vacation home

You will be relaxed from the moment you step foot on this property. Kerry is an amazing host and always answers any questions quickly. The property is nothing short of amazing. The gardens, the views and the hottub by the lakeside are all exactly what you need to feel you are on a private resort. We had a large group with lots of space to spare.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica S.

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

Great family time!

We are grateful for Kerry’s warm hospitality! The house was a perfect getaway for our family of 9, with lots of room to spread around and very cozy. Our teens love the kaya and the younger kids had a lot of movie selections. Kitchen was well stocked and the garden was lovely. Views from upstair room was stunning! We had a great stay and if we ever head back to Rotorua we would love to stay here again! Thanks Kerry ☺️
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul B.

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

A beautiful home in a beautiful setting!

This home was a real find. Truly lakefront with beautiful gardens and outlook, our family spent a lovely week here enjoying all the amenities and the very private and peaceful setting. We had 6 staying in the house and didn't feel cramped or claustrophobic in the slightest. There are plenty of places to find some alone time. Having a relaxing spa in a secluded garden nook with views out on the lake was the highlight for me! I highly recommend this property!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd J.

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

Beautiful gardens on the lake

The property is filled with beautiful gardens and flowers. It is nestled back in a quiet neighborhood, situated on the lake. Black swans and ducks swim by the house all day. There is plenty of room for a large family- it sleeps 11. There are thousands of DVDs to watch-but we were never home to watch them. It is located 8-10 minutes from Rotorua downtown. Everything you need is provided. You have access to kayaks and canoes, linens, and a washer and dryer. It doesn't have AC, but the house cools down nicely with the windows cracked in the evenings. It was perfect.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Georgina J.

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

Wonderful family holiday

This is a wonderful house for extended family. The lakeside location with kayaks and life jackets provided is perfect. And the fantastic spa is also right on the water. Amazing view. Beautiful gardens. Two living rooms. Well stocked pantry and bathrooms. NB: The listing says 3 bathrooms but we didn't read the description properly which says third bathroom comes only when you rent the extra apartment. So we only had an ensuite and a main bathroom, which we made work. The only other issue we had for boat owners to be aware of is that there is a steep, windy driveway down to the property which we couldn't get our boat down. The DVD library is the largest I've ever seen - wow! Kerry responded promptly to all our questions. A beautiful, great value property. Highly recommend!
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chase D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Rain for our entire stay but we enjoyed ourselves in an extremely homey property that we were thankful we stayed in for our weather. Hot tub is the coolest one Ive ever seen. Host was great and communicative. This property rescued what would have otherwise been a disappointment in Rotarua. The best property we stayed in in NZ. Highly recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Laura S.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent location. Beautiful views. Lots of nice seating around the the house. Owner very helpful and responsive.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Steve K.

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

Great location and good facility

Great location and good facility.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

About the host

Hosted by Kerry Starling

Host profile image
I have been renting out my former family home at Kawaha Point for 20 years. My partner, Lora, is American and we live at Hamurana overlooking Lake Rotorua. We like travelling the world, cruising, exploring NZ in our campervan, mountain biking, live music, movies and I love all sport, particularly English football.

Why they chose this property

I had to buy my home again in a divorce settlement and I decided to rent it out to pay for it. I have loved every minute of the experience of meeting new guests from all over the world. This is particularly so when guests arrive and see the magic location in which the property is set.

What makes this property unique

Private and quiet lake edge living in a very spacious home where large groups can spread out over 2 lounge areas, 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Sleeps 12 comfortably.

An additional self-contained apartment above the garage is available for larger groups for an extra $150 per night with king bed, single bed, lounge and kitchenette, additional shower and toilet.

The property is only a few minutes from the city centre and attractions, despite being extremely quiet and private..

A spa pool is located in the garden overlooking the lake and the lights of the city at night. The spa is hot and ready for guests on arrival.

There are 7 kayaks available for complimentary guest use, along with a range of life-jackets.

The property has beautiful gardens, particularly in the spring.

Languages:

English

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