Entire home

Serenity on the Edge of the Lake

Photo gallery for Serenity on the Edge of the Lake

Sun-loungers, beach towels
Exterior
4 bedrooms, in-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board
Interior
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Washer
    Washer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Fireplace
    Fireplace
  • Dryer
    Dryer

About this property

Entire place

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

Serenity on the Edge of the Lake

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.

Property manager

Rob Steadman

Languages

English, Swedish

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car recommended
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Jetted bathtub
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Netflix
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Streaming services
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Fully-fenced
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Coin laundry
  • Washer/dryer

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office
  • Printer

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: Extra cleaning fee $350 may be charged

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Safe

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Composting
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Garden

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

Guests will receive lockbox information
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Access methods

Host will greet you, lockbox

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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: This will be strictly enforced
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
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

Serenity On The Edge Of The
Serenity on the Edge of the Lake Cottage
Serenity on the Edge of the Lake Rotorua
Serenity on the Edge of the Lake Cottage Rotorua

About the area

Map
Koutu, Bay Of Plenty

What's nearby

  • Eat Street - 3 min drive
  • Rotorua Central Mall - 4 min drive
  • Skyline Rotorua - 4 min drive
  • Polynesian Spa - 4 min drive
  • Mitai Maori Village - 4 min drive

Getting around

  • Rotorua (ROT-Rotorua Regional) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Wendy’S - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Gold Star Bakery - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪Kfc - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Social Club - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Serenity on the Edge of the Lake pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Serenity on the Edge of the Lake?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Serenity on the Edge of the Lake?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Serenity on the Edge of the Lake located?

This family-friendly Rotorua cottage is located on the waterfront, within a 15-minute walk of Kuirau Park, DriftKartz and Tribal Lights Cultural Theatre. Rotorua Hospital and St. Faith's Anglican Church are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Serenity on the edge of the lake Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 119 out of 119 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 119 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 119 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 119 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 119 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Tom F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Clare B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful location and house
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Erin W., Minneapolis, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Just as described!
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Trana M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Ultimate SERENITY
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.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael C., georgia

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location, Great house, Fantastic Host!
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.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

thomas

Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.

10/10 Excellent

Jared L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing by the lake
Great little character home right on the lake. An old original house that has been modernised and is very comfortable to stay in.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Raewyn R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful
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.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chuck B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Comfort with a View
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carleen G., Tauranga New Zealand

Liked: Cleanliness
Group of 7 ladies.
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marcia B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful spot in Rotorua
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 +++
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brent C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect
Perfect location. The manager was friendly and very thorough. Beautiful sunrises. Big rooms.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing cottage on the water.
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Linda B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great vacation getaway
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Leah L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful and relaxing
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.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

ANNE M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Home Away From Home
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

CHRIS K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect for us
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

kevin

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very well kept property. Everything you needed was at the cottage. Shower was hot and powerful. Very good communication with owner.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Top notch
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cathy P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
Rob is very organized and helpful. He went out of his way to help us. We only wish we could have stayed longer
Stayed 1 night in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

brendon m.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to stay
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.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joanne

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property in an amazing location.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michelle T., WHYALLA JENKINS

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place
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!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melinda d.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent lake side stay
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
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Erik

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great house with lots of amenities, very close to town
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023