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The Crib - a cottage with character

Lakefront cottage with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for The Crib - a cottage with character

The crib
From the street
apricots off the tree
plums from the garden
Property grounds

Reviews

9.6 out of 10, Loved by Guests
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
Cromwell, Cromwell
  • Place, Cromwell Golf Course
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Lake Dunstan
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Old Cromwell Town
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Airport, Queenstown (ZQN-Queenstown Intl.)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Crib - a cottage with character

‘The Crib’ is an authentic kiwi crib with two other units on a large 1200 sqm private sheltered property and views out to the Pisa Range.

It is a great place for games, laughter, good company, food, and generally relaxing and unwinding. The large flat section has space for parking, bikes and running around. The mature trees and orchard provide privacy and shade in summer.

The cottage began as two army huts in 1947, and has grown over the years. The original character has been retained and new ceiling insulation and a pellet burner now keep everyone warm in winter. An annex off the deck has a bedroom, heat pump and ensuite facilities. More recently we added a Mount Hutt Pod with another queen bed. These units provide separate spaces for adults and family, great for a quiet read and siesta in summer. The garage serves as a safe storage area for bikes and play equipment.

The Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail and swimming area is less than five minute’s walk. You can walk or cycle around the lakeshore towards Bannockburn and Clyde, or up the lake past Lowburn. There are a lot of great cycle trails being set up around the region.
Golfers will find the 9th hole across the road. The indoor swimming pool, gym, supermarket and town centre are 10 - 15 minutes walk in the other direction.

Cromwell is a well-resourced small town situated centrally in a sunny basin between Wanaka, Queenstown and Alexandra. The area has outstanding vineyards, a local farmer’s market in summer, olive producers, and summer fruits. Picking cherries is one of our favourite summer activities. We bottle our own apricots, nectarines and peaches.

We want to keep the place as safe as possible for everyone, guests, visitors, our local manager, and the person who looks after the grounds. Please let us know if you have active Covid while you're staying so that we can keep everyone safe.


Special conditions:
Linen and cleaning available by arrangement.

Minimum rental two nights, three nights in winter. This is because we turn the water off between 1 June and 30 September so that the pipes don't freeze when the place is unused.

NOTE: In keeping with the Kiwi bach tradition you are expected to:
* Clean the house and do the dishes before you leave
* Bring your own linen (towels/sheets and pillow cases/tea towels)
There are non perishable staples available, (tea, coffee, herbs and spices, cooking oil etc). Because we don't live locally and want to minimise waste, we don't provide milk on arrival.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Golf view

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Don't put kids <2yrs in yr numbers - no charge
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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
We ask guests to leave the crib as they find it
Bring your own linen and towels, unless otherwise arranged,
Don't include children under 2 years in your head count so that they can stay for no charge

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
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 fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Cromwell

Located in Cromwell, this cottage is next to a golf course and on a lake. Lake Dunstan and Bannockburn Sluicings Walks reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Paintball Central and Kiwi Water Park. Discover the area's water adventures with fishing and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and mountain biking.
Map
Cromwell, Cromwell

What's nearby

  • Cromwell Golf Course - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Lake Dunstan - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Old Cromwell Town - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Cromwell Shopping Centre - 2 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Mt Difficulty Wines - 3 min drive - 3.0 km

Getting around

  • Wānaka Airport (WKA) - 33 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Sanga's Pies - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪The Moorings - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Nichol's Garden Cafe - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪The Stoaker - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Cromwell Bakery - ‬19 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is The Crib - a cottage with character pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at The Crib - a cottage with character?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Crib - a cottage with character?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Crib - a cottage with character?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Crib - a cottage with character located?

This family-friendly Cromwell cottage is located on a lake, within a 15-minute walk of Cromwell Golf Course and Old Cromwell Town. Cromwell Shopping Centre and Lake Dunstan are also within 1 mile (2 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. 100 out of 126 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 25 out of 126 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 126 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 126 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 126 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kurt S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place, plenty of space and everything needed to enjoy yourself based at an excellent location.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Katrina A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay in the Crib. Very cozy and comfortable, all the makings of a relaxed holiday.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host communication was excellent. Crib had great character and everything we needed. Great outdoor spaces to enjoy. Close to great swimming location
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Janet Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a great place to stay, lots of room, close to the river for a swim and everything you need for a great family holiday. The host responds quickly and instructions are easy to follow.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adonia W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice crib
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Colin H.

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

Great place to stay

Handy for all local attractions
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

michael k.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
No Host Present ,as We Like it ! & available by Phone , & Very Helpful !Plenty of Equipment for Enthusiastic Cooks !A Plentiful Kitchen Garden !& Bicycles as Well , Cromwell is Very Good for Cycling !
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erin H.

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

Lovely place

Great location, such a cosy vibe that just makes you feel like relaxing! Host was so informative and helpful, communication excellent. Such a special spot would definitely stay again
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erin B.

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

Easter weekend

Great place to stay, love the quirkyness of the property. Everything was great. Would recommend to others.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda E.

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

Our stay

It was an enjoyable and comfortable stay,loved the retro feel to the bach, distance to town was easy walking, wouldn't hesitate to stay again
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sue D.

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

Fantastic stay

We loved this classic Otago holiday crib. It had everything you needed and was super comfortable. The location was outstanding, close to the hills and river but only a short walk to the town centre. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

paula m.

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

Home away from home

Absolutely loved the crib
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amanda F.

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

Perfect place to relax

A lovely experience. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicolene T.

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

Relaxed and functional spot :)

The cottage gives a true batch feel, a place where you can relax and just enjoy the stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kerry D.

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

Autumn Getaway

A delightful and relaxing stay ahead of winter. Clean and functional - obviously well loved. Thankyou so much.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nigel C.

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

Highly Recommended - Cromwell Hidden Gem

Loved our stay with friends at this gorgeous home. The photos don't do it justice. The owner was extremely helpful and responded quickly to any queries. Fabulous yard and additional, seperate rooms, spacious and private, comfy and beautifully decorated. We will be staying again!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrea M.

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

Cosy cottage

The property was well set up for a family to stay - the owner was in regular contact and we were encouraged to stay warm - important in a Cromwell winter! The pallet fire was great. Lots of sleeping areas that allowed privacy for various family members.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

June G.

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

Great location and bach in Cromwell

Easy walk to Lake Dunstan and to a play park, and not far from the shops. Really cute bach, with separate spaces for families that want a bit more privacy from each other. It made a relaxing base for our adventures. The host Martin was prompt and clear in his communication - he went out of his way to make sure our stay was a good one. Totally recommend this bach.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

8/10 Good

Russell C.

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

Cromwell

Great
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kay m.

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

martin is great

Thank you Martin
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jo R.

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

Cromwell Retro Bach

Warm and welcoming. Reminder of holidays in the 60's. Well equipped comfortable home. Great communication from Martin
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike d.

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

Holiday

Great place to base ourselves, to explore the wider area. Plenty of space with the 2 sleepout areas. Place was clean, warm, with lots of character. All the amenities you need and everything functioning as it should. Lots of books and boardgames as well. Was nice to have bikes available in the shed, but we didn't use them. Easy to find, easy parking and convenient location. Definitely would stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandra M.

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

Cromwell Charmer

We had a delightful couple of days in Cromwell. The crib was just perfect. We used the bikes on offer to cycle the tracks around the town and beyond, sat in the garden which is laden with fruit trees, played a round of golf....what more does one need? Martin is an excellent communicator. Highly recommend staying here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dale L.

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

Lovely classic crib

We spend two nights in this lovely crib. It reminded us of our childhood crib. Everything we needed was there. We weren't able to light the pellet fire, as we didn't understand the instructions. We would happily stay here again. Thank you .
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennie N.

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

Retro crib

Everything was as described Maybe some milk in the fridge would have been helpful
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

About the host

Hosted by martor235

Host profile image
The crib has been in the Weston family since the mid 1950s. We hope that the newest fifth generation will have as much pleasure and enjoyment from staying as their forebears

What makes this property unique

A large sheltered private 1220 sqm property with trees and fruit trees, which offer shade and shelter from the prevailing weather. It is organically gardened.

The cottage has grown over the years and has a nostalgic feel with modern conveniences and comforts. There are two other stand-alone buildings for privacy and space.

We're opposite the golf course, close to the lake, play area, BMX track, and cycle trail in the old part of the town

Languages:

English
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