Entire home

Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve

Cottage in Maungatautari with kitchenette and balcony

Photo gallery for Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve

2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets - Karapiro Family Cottage,  1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve (Cambridge)
Outdoor dining - Karapiro Family Cottage,  1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve (Cambridge)
Exterior - Karapiro Family Cottage,  1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve (Cambridge)
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets - Karapiro Family Cottage,  1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve (Cambridge)
Dining - Karapiro Family Cottage,  1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve (Cambridge)
Nestled in the heart of rural Karapiro, The Family Cottage offers a picturesque escape. Each cottage borders an expansive central country garden with native birds and spectacular rural views. Enjoy access to a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, complete with BBQ and dishwasher, or relax on your private deck overlooking the farm fields.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms3 bathrooms

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
The current price is NZ$200
includes taxes & fees
1 Feb - 2 Feb

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve

The Family Cottage is one of three cottages near our character homestead on a family owned, picturesque farm in the heart of rural Karapiro. Each borders an expansive central country garden with Tui and other native birds, and spectacular rural views.

Karapiro Country Cottages are just minutes from the river, cycle trails, nature walks and many of the area’s local attractions and event facilities.

From the moment our guests approach through the tree lined driveway, to when they sit on the deck of their private hilltop cottage overlooking our rolling farm fields, we make sure they feel our hearty welcome.

Our manicured lawns wrapped around a towering Copper Beech tree boast beautiful roses that smell like grandma’s used to, and a thriving country kitchen garden.
Each cottage opens onto the central gardens, making it ideal for groups to share the occasion from their private accommodation.

They all have access to the fully equipped outdoor kitchen, complete with BBQ and dishwasher, and covered entertainment area. Guests can self-cater with fresh vegetables from the garden or enjoy our home-cooked meals prepared with ingredients from the farm. A 3-course evening meal is available on request ($45).

We enjoy showing our guests the local scenery. You can chill out with the native birds and trees, or drink Champagne overlooking the countryside while the sun sets. Our DOC approved pest control programme ensures the neighboring private native reserve remains one of NZ's most spectacular.

Kids have lots to do with plenty of space to run around. And if they want to try gardening, we’d love to teach them the skills.

After years of extending country hospitality we’re experienced at event catering. Our venue is perfect for small functions.

The site is great, and the location is just as good. Karapiro Country Cottages are near all the major attractions and venues. We are literally minutes from the river, Horahora Domain and the Karapiro Rowing Club. The Karapiro section of Waikato Cycle Trail is just across the river and Hobbiton, Maungatautari Mountain, Tirau Village, many historic sites and the regions popular event venues are all close by. It’s only 20 minutes’ drive to Mystery Creek ans the Avantidrome.

Karapiro Family Cottage .........
The largest of our cottages, the Family Cottage is open plan with a kitchenette and dining area, a cosy lounge with flat screen TV, DVD’s and free WIFI. There are three beds , room for a rollaway, and a modern bathroom - Sleeps 5. It’s perfect for a whole family to do their own thing in all weather.

Karapiro Family Cottage is attached to the old homestead but completely private. It allows independence but is handy for popping into the homestead kitchen for home-cooked evening meals. Or you can make an occasion of any meal in the outdoor kitchen, fully equipped for lavish entertaining. (NB: there is an internal door that allows access from the homestead but that is always locked to maintain complete gust privacy)

From a private deck you have views across the farm, and through every window you see mature trees and the manicured country gardens.

Includes Continental Breakfast

Includes Linen and Cleaning
We love animals. Pets may be allowed with prior approval
Smoking is OK outside only

NB: for bigger groups check out Fantail Cottage @ Karapiro Cottages and Tui Cottage @ Karapiro Cottages

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Limo/town car service
  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchenette

  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Free breakfast available

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Stereo
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • In-room accessibility
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Limited housekeeping

Location highlights

  • In a rural location

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • Garden

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets not allowed
Note from host: only with prior consent

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings
Only organised events by prior consent

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 25
Note from host: only organised events by prior consent
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 not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property
100007544

About the area

Located in Maungatautari, this cottage is in a rural area. Tirau Golf Club and Putaruru Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Maungatautari Ecological Island and Lake Karapiro. Ready for a night out? Consider The Red Barn and Sir Don Rowlands Centre at Mighty River Domain. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching. Visit our Maungatautari travel guide
View more Cottages in Maungatautari
Map
Cambridge, Cambridge

What's nearby

  • Karapiro lake panorama, Waikato, New Zealand
    Lake Karapiro
    7 min drive - 4.2 km
  • A few kilometres downstream from Lake Taupo the river changes to some rapids for a short distance.  When the rapids finish there is a drop which creates a waterfall. It all ends with this scene which is stunning. Only a 30 second walk from the car park to the river this shot was taken about a 5 minute walk further downstream on the main track at sunrise.
    Waikato River
    7 min drive - 4.2 km
  • The Red Barn
    10 min drive - 9.2 km
  • Chiddingfold Garden
    17 min drive - 20.6 km
  • Cambridge Farmers' Market
    23 min drive - 28.7 km

Getting around

  • Hamilton (HLZ-Hamilton Intl.)
    37 min drive

Restaurants

  • The Red Barn
  • Rhubarb Cafe
    17 min drive
  • The Boatshed
    16 min drive
  • The Boatshed Karapiro
    16 min drive
  • Wild Bean Cafe
    14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve?

As of 29 Jan 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve on 1 Feb 2026 start from NZ$200.0, excluding 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 Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve located?

Situated in a rural location, this cottage is 1.6 mi (2.5 km) from Lake Karapiro and within 6 miles (10 km) of Maungatautari Ecological Island and The Red Barn. Waikato River and Sir Don Rowlands Centre at Mighty River Domain are also within 9 miles (15 km).

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Karapiro Family Cottage, 1 of 3 in a country garden bordering a native reserve Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 26 out of 32 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 32 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 32 reviews

10

Cleanliness

9.6

Location

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Christine C.

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Wedding group

Beautiful location, serene, out of the way getaway. Friendly host, 5 star hospitality. We were a group of 4 and we all enjoyed our stay, if the opportunity arises again we know where to go
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Helen M.

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

Lovely stay at farm house

Host is very hospitable and accomodating. Comfortable beds with well equipped room. Was woken up early though by sunlight shone through the glass window of the door. Overall very pleasant stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Yvonne B.

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Experience

Lovely and generous people. Comfy beds. A beautiful setting and everything we needed was there
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cedric H.

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

Karapiro Country Cottages

The accommodation was perfect. The hostess was very helpful and delightful. The breakfast was five stars with home preserved fruit and jams and homemade muesli. The garden setting was a dream, and we would certainly go back again. Highly recommend to visitors requiring a relaxing and peaceful setting.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

tracey s.

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

Peaceful

The location was beautiful and quiet. Grounds were very well kept and the accommodation was very comfortable. A lovely continental breakfast was provided, with homemade preserves and fruit. Dinner was also homemade and used vegetables from the owners garden. Eating and talking with the lovely owner, and her family, was a highlight. We loved hearing the history of the home and region. There's also a pizza oven if you want to cook your own, and an outside gazebo type area with an undercover bar/kitchenette. Such a delightful stay and would definitely stay again.from the owners garden.from the garden
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Kirsten B.

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

Bucolic Waikato homestead

A stunning homestead and very friendly owner. The property manager hadn’t communicated our booking to her, but she warmly welcomed us after direct contact. The 3-bed shared room is good for non-snorers ;) one bedside light needed an extension to work, and the reading lights above the main bed were daylight bulbs that needed to be more restful warm LEDs perhaps. Absolutely loved the home preserves for breakfast!!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Bronwyn B.

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

Fabulous

Wonderful location and hosts highly recommend staying here.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nanda M.

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

Our stay

Mary was a great host and cooked us a really nice meal.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Rural location perfect for attending function at the Red Barn.

Rural location perfect for attending function at the Red Barn. Beautiful gardens and setting.

10/10 Excellent

Michael K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything about our stay was "just great". Mary was just an outstanding host .Thank you so much. We will definitely keep you in mind for future trips north.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wanda L., Tokoroa

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

Beautiful tranquil

Lovelyquiet property.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen D.

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

Perfect

Perfect for our needs. Area is fantastic, lots of hidden surprises. We will be back and very happy to stay in this accommodation again :)
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Erica S.

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

Beautiful stay, was everything we needed and more

There were four of us staying one night on our way to walk the Waikato trails. Everything was beautiful and clean. We played the outside games while cooking on the bbq. Had everything we needed and the hosts are so easy and lovely to deal with.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Roy H.

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

Hobbiton Visit

Went to hobbiton for lunch and then headed to The Karapiro Family Cottage, with my family from Australia. We loved it there so much. A nice night with no rain around a fire. The morning was exploring the beautiful gardens, and a wonderful chat with one out hosts. We will be booking again to come back and see the gardens in spring and summer and to continue our conversation with Mary-Ann. Loved it. Thanks so much.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jan O.

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

Loved our stay. Great accomm. Awesome owners- very welcoming. Lovely spot. Very reasonable price

Highly recommend this accomm. Wasn’t expecting breakfast cereal, fruit, toast etc - a lovely bonus. Beautiful rural setting. Definitely stay there again
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rose T.

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

Lovely country getaway

We stayed in the family unit attached to main farmhouse. Felt luxurious and house was surrounded by beautiful gardens. Lovely people.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Yushani P.

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

Quiet peaceful and simply beautiful

Nice quiet getaway. We wanted a place to relax not too far from Auckland and that is what we got. Mary, her mum and Steve are amazing hosts. Thanks Steve for the outdoor fire that set the tone for the evening. The homemade jams and marmalade were so good 👍🏽Fresh eggs and vegetables were yummy. Our dog Mako also had a great time running around.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Toni J., New Zealand

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

Magical

A wonderful place to stay, the owners are fantastic and really happy to help. We will be going back.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2020
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Andrea G.

Beautiful property loved the cottage to stay in

Beautiful property loved the cottage to stay in
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Peter g.

House Location is isolated so get your shopping done for food at cambridge, location is best, otherw

House Location is isolated so get your shopping done for food at cambridge, location is best, otherwise you cant expect any better than what they have on offer. Owner is very friendly and helpful and flexible. thanks
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Tina M.

Beautiful location and beautiful garden

Beautiful location and beautiful garden
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Absolutely beautiful property, amazing outlook over farmland and hills.

Absolutely beautiful property, amazing outlook over farmland and hills. This is possibly why Mary and family are the happiest people on earth! Our shared family room was immaculate. The home made quince and peaches were delicious :)
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Great location, nice and close to The Red Barn.

Great location, nice and close to The Red Barn. The property was gorgeous, cute gardens and good set up for a group of friends to stay together!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

We had a fantastic stay with Mary-Ann.

We had a fantastic stay with Mary-Ann. A beautiful property in a fantastic country location. Thanks very much Mary, all going well we'll definitely be back next year :-)
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Fabulous home and location

Fabulous home and location