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True Kiwi Bach Experience

Photo gallery for True Kiwi Bach Experience

The Bach
The View
The kitchen
Master bedroom
Second Bedroom

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 690 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Outdoor barbecue
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Waitetoko, Waikato
  • Place, Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Place, Tokaanu Thermal Pools
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Place, Tongariro National Park
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Airport, Taupō Airport (TUO)
    ‪27 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Master suite

1 Queen Bed

Second Bedroom

2 Single Bunk Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Kitchen
Outdoor play area

About this property

True Kiwi Bach Experience

A true Kiwi bach experience.
Sitting on the shore of Great Lake Taupo is this genuine family bach.
Originally built in the 1940’s as a fisherman’s hut it has been extended and updated over the years in true Kiwi bloke style, recently redecorated to create a more homely feel.
Enjoy the views through the two large picture windows looking across and up the lake towards Taupo. The bach is perfectly positioned to see the often beautiful evening sunsets.
25mins south of Taupo, 15mins north of Turangi and 5 seconds from the water!
Freeview TV is available.

Duvets and blankets are provided and you can either choose to bring your own linen or pay a small additional cost for sheets.

UPDATE: We have added two wall heaters to the bach so feel free to try a winter getaway and within an hour you can be on the skifield! NO HEATPUMP OR FIREPLACE, so bring your slippers!!

Special conditions:
Smoking allowed outside only

Sorry we do not allow pets to stay at the bach

Families, Couples or 'mature' adults preferred

Extras: Cleaning (Required, NZ$60.00 per stay); Linen (Optional, NZ$20.00 per stay);

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Parking available
Barbecue

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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
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Please do your dishes and leave the property as you found it.
Please vacate the property by 11am on the day of check out so the cleaners can get the place ready for the next guests.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Be aware that in winter, our bach does not have a heat pump or an open fire - it can be very cold on the plateau during winter months.
This is an old school bach - in the cooler months, field mice always manage to find a way in - we set bait, traps and use sonic deterrents.

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

About the area

Tauranga Taupo

Tauranga Taupo is home to this holiday home. Lake Taupō and Tongariro National Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include The Landing Lake Taupō and Waipahihi Botanical Gardens. Taupō Hot Springs and A.C. Baths are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with fishing and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking.
View more Holiday homes in Tauranga TaupoOpens in a new window
Map
Waitetoko, Waikato

What's nearby

  • Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre - 16 min drive - 18.6 km
  • Tongariro National Trout Centre - 18 min drive - 22.5 km
  • River Vineyard - 18 min drive - 18.9 km
  • Tokaanu Thermal Pools - 20 min drive - 24.6 km
  • Tongariro National Park - 22 min drive - 27.1 km

Getting around

  • Taupō Airport (TUO) - 22 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Licorice Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Licorice Cafe - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Tomi's - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is True Kiwi Bach Experience pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at True Kiwi Bach Experience?

As of 21 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at True Kiwi Bach Experience on 23 Apr 2026 start from AU$98, 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 True Kiwi Bach Experience?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at True Kiwi Bach Experience?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at True Kiwi Bach Experience?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is True Kiwi Bach Experience located?

Situated in Tauranga Taupo, this holiday home is 2.2 mi (3.5 km) from Lake Taupō and within 12 miles (20 km) of Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre and River Vineyard. Tongariro National Trout Centre is 11.3 mi (18.1 km) away.

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

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. 64 out of 104 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 33 out of 104 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 104 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 104 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 104 reviews

8.2/10

Cleanliness

4.0/10

Amenities

2.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.2/10

Check-in

9.2/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracey W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful host, wonderful location.
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Eleanor R.

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

Great location

Fantastic location right on the lake with lovely views, good shower and comfy beds
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Dec 2023
Thanks for looking after our old girl, thr locale really is very special..
Verified

8/10 Good

Alex A.

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

Turangi Stay

Great location, quiet and great walks
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified

2/10 Terrible

NORMA

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This place is in a very beautiful location, however, it is extremely isolated if you don't have a vehicle. What I didn't know beforehand was that despite it being quite expensive, I would be drinking filtered but untreated lake water, have to remove my garbage, and there would be no wifi. The bach was quite run down and in the bedroom I was sleeping under a ceiling that looked like it would collapse sometime soon. Even minor fixes like recovering the chairs to the table would have been nice. As a non-Kiwi I did not realize that this was the true Kiwi Bach experience and ended up leaving it two days early despite the expense. Anyone looking for a primitive couple of days at the beach this is fine but for what it cost I expected more!
The ceiling in the main bedroom looked like it was about to fall down.
The two chairs for the table needed to be recovered.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Simon G.

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

The most beautiful spot

Our second stay. The location is just amazing, the bach is cozy, homely, simple, and all you need. Feels like you have the lake to yourselves. Look forward to going again.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Archival

8/10 Good

Fantastic location, unbeatable view, charming old bach with real nostalgic Kiwi style.

Fantastic location, unbeatable view, charming old bach with real nostalgic Kiwi style. Would be a dream winter hideaway with a little bit more heating - but we still had a great weekend.
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
The wall heaters were a new addition. But yes, it's not quite winter proofed ;). You'll just have to come back in summer!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rosalind T.

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

A terrific old-school bach

We had a lovely at this terrific old-school bach. What a stunning location!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Dec 2022
Super old school, nice to get back to basics and unplug - thanks for looking after her.
From a partner site

8/10 Good

Vanessa L.

Great original Kiwi Bach, warm and cosy.

Great original Kiwi Bach, warm and cosy. Everything that you need is there, a real home away from home. We absolutely loved our stay at the Bach. We will definitely be back :)
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
You'd be welcome anytime!
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Sally Jane S.

Wonderful location, lovely Bach which was well equipped.

Wonderful location, lovely Bach which was well equipped. Great neighbors fishing and swimming. Smoked trout is the bomb??
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
Glad to say we got some of the fish this year! Such a magic spot - glad you liked it, welcome to come back again!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Everything about this place is perfect.

Everything about this place is perfect. It's a simple small home, a step back in time. The location is priceless! Thank you for having us.
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
Always welcome back.
Verified

8/10 Good

Simon m.

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

Great spot

Classic kiwi batch, best memory is watching the crescent moon and Venus chase each other down with the setting sun.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
From a partner site

8/10 Good

Rhonda R.

Lovely bach, bigger than expected.

Lovely bach, bigger than expected. Had everything we needed. Superb location right on the lake. The lake was beautiful. We will definitely stay longer next time ??
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
Thanks, not quite a tardis but big enough for a family (usually plus a couple of hangers-on! We'd love to see you back.
Archival

8/10 Good

we loved it.

we loved it. classic kiwi bach right on the lake
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
Doesn't get much more kiwi than this one, glad you had a good time.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Antonia R.

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

Cute bach in great location

Lovely setting, just metres from the lake edge with great views. Was a good location between Tūrangi and Taupō if you are planning on doing things in both places. The bach had all we needed and the host provided ample instructions. Would recommend, especially if you are looking for something simple and a bit different.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Dec 2022
We agree it is a great place to unwind and unplug from life's distractions. Glad you emjoyed.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill M.

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

Stunning spot!

Location couldn't be better, stunning views, even in all weathers. Quirkiness added character to the bach tenfold. Most amenities on site, missing the odd basic item. Overall an amazing hidden gem. Would love to return!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Dec 2022
Thanks Jill, we think it's a magic spot too. Thanks for looking after the old girl, she is getting on in years and needs a lot of TLC!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracey W.

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

Thank you

Thank you for the privilege of another dreamy and special stay at our favourite place in all the world. Kia ora rawa atu.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Feb 2024
Always happy to share the lake magic
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nadine Rachel W.

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

Very nice place

Quite nice place with e marvelous view and near the lake. We were glad for the good heating for rainy days. We very enjoy our stay. Only two little things we would note: It would have been handy to have e yellow trash bag inhouse and the oven was too dirty to use. Otherwise we can highly recommand the bach.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Dec 2022
Sorry about the oven, have asked the cleaner to give it a super clean now. Shame I can't do anything about the weather though! Enjoy your onward travels..
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda B.

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

Lovely old school bach!

Had a lovely 3 days at this very cool old school bach. The location is unbeatable. Lovely to swim in the lake multiple times a day! Very tidy and the most comfortable beds I’ve ever had at a holiday home. The only improvement would be clearer instructions for the zip and the washing machine. Thanks so much so much.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Dec 2022
Most welcome - I have updated by instructions for utilities - thanks.
Verified

4/10 Poor

Sam W.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness
The property is at a fantastic location. Lakeside meant that everyday swimming and adventuring was easy and stress free. Contact with the host in advance was clear and accessing the property was very easy. The property itself however is not accurately described in the listing. Marketed as a ‘classic kiwi bach’, the reality was a space seemingly neglected and run down. Major concerns were the mice that we visibly saw and heard at night. Windows that have seemingly for some time been leaking causing mould and damage to the curtains, walls and carpet and also the odd mix of things that past visitors had left in the fridge (perishables such as berries, ham and tomatoes) and also a lack of toilet paper, rubbish bags and dish liquid. There were also some minor concerns such as dirty towels that were left in the washing machine, very dirty windows, dirty bed sheets (fortunately brought our own, a broken dryer and the house was clearly not vacuumed. The photos are also not up to date so some furniture differs from reference pictures. I want so much to say that I enjoyed my time here but over the week spent at the property I ended up feeling more and more dirty and disappointed the more time I spent there. Being charged a cleaning fee for a place that clearly wasn’t cared for on our arrival is also hard to take and unfair.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

Kriselda W.

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

Nice spot

The bach was in an ideal location. Beds were comfortable and clean. Only complaint was that there was a definite rodent problem. With new mice droppings found daily throughout the kitchen cupboards and one mouse running through the lounge mid day. so we had to try fit all our food in the fridge for the stay. The kids absolutely loved the place and being so close to the lake for swimming.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2024
Archival

8/10 Good

Nice little batch in a great location, with awesome views.

Nice little batch in a great location, with awesome views. Good kitchen and utensil selection and washing facilities. Although it was a little bit cold on the first day, but we managed to warm it up with the heaters provided. The double bed was also very soft for us. We see that they are going to update the heating to a heatpump, so if they do that and change the mattress we'll likely go again.
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
Glad your family had a great time. As with most family beach's, there is a long to-do list each year when we have our family time there. Heating is near the top, so I hope we can enjoy it better all year round :)
Verified

8/10 Good

Trevor H.

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

Trev

Really nice. Only real issue was combination lock on key safe on the door , it was jammed up pretty bad (I've had the last 3 months dealing with them before I arrived) anyway after numerous attempts I gave up and found I had absolutely no way to contact owner manager or anyone for help so I had one more crack and got in. Not moaning just stating facts. After that all good
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Ietje v.

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful spot !!

It’s a real kiwi Bach on a gorgeous spot. Kids loved it ! Fire risk was low so we had gorgeous fires with marsh mellows ! No WIFI but that suited us fine. Hardly any toilet paper… that was not very handy, otherwise it was all perfect. I contacted the hosts mobile never got an answer. Don’t know what went wrong there. Also the key lock box was a real mission and I almost gave up. You need to hear every number give a tiny “click” otherwise no luck…
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beau H.

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

Pure relaxation

My partner and I totally enjoyed a week long stay in Maren’s cosy lake whare. Over and above, we loved that the cottage has been left to shine in all its authenticity as an original Kiwi bach, while offering all the modern comforts one needs for a relaxing break away from the hustle of daily life. All the previous comments posted are spot on. Waitetoko bach is an true delight from the first approach. It humbly tries to allow it’s peaceful and untouched natural lakefront position be the star of the show, but all who step through it’s doors are equally charmed by what Waitetoko offers on the inside. Character in spades, scrupulously clean, well equipped, sun-filled comfy spaces, post card views, cosy and safe - a real delight. Most certainly we will return. Thank you so much Maren for your professional and friendly hospitality and for sharing your wee treasure.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

phil r.

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

Authentic fisherman's cabin - warts & all - but gorgeous!

Just a few days R&R and very lucky with weather - hot, sunny, no wind & a lake of glass just a matter of steps away.. usually very few people, even in mid-summer holiday peak. Water was a delight & just 3 steps and you're waist deep - perfect. Cabin was exactly as expected so no grizzles here, but with the oven out-of-action the benchtop grill I brought was ideal. In fact I had the basics with me so didn't need to call on many of the available resources, but they're sure there. A previous review damned the door-key security box as fiddly & a challenge.. they were right.. I cursed the thing & had trouble - no "CLEAR" or "OPEN" buttons to be seen [as per instructions] - but perseverance won.. making this task more user-friendly would be a good improvement. But a terrific spot & highly recommended - but accept it for what it is !
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

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