Located in Koutu, this cottage is adjacent to Lake Rotorua and a short stroll from Kuirau Park. The cottage includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.
Royal Indian Restaurant Tandoori Cuisine - 15 min walk
KFC - 17 min walk
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home 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.
GUEST COMFORT: 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! It rarely gets uncomfortably warm in Rotorua, but we have whisper-quiet fans in the bedrooms and living areas if needed.
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.
- Early check in and late check out to suit your travel needs AT NO EXTRA COST. This is subject to other bookings and the workload of my co-host Nerida and her crew, but we will 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 a second lounge, 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. There is also a smart TV with remote. 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 single 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). The beds are triple-sheeted with hotel-quality linen.
BATHROOMS
The property has two bathrooms with showers and Rinnai constant hot water. Bathroom 1 includes a washer and dryer, and a spa bath. Bathroom 2 has a custom laundry unit for handwashing smaller items.
FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE
We keep a range of 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
We have smoke and fire detectors, an extinguisher, a carbon monoxide 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 system. 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. A selection of board games for those rainy days. Unlimited fibre fast broadband 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 eight kayaks (four adult-size, one "sit in" with child seat, 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 co-host Nerida warmly welcome you to our special place. We will strive to ensure that your stay is relaxing, enjoyable and refreshing.
The cottage features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony or patio. There's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can expect free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player and Netflix. The bathroom offers a jetted tub and hair dryers. Other standard amenities include a washer/dryer, a fireplace, and a fenced private yard.
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
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Hunting nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking 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
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
The host will greet guests on arrival
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
Access methods
Host will greet you, lockbox
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
This will be strictly enforced
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Extra cleaning fee $350 may be charged
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: This will be strictly enforced
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
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
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Note from host: This will be strictly enforced
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
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
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do around this cottage?
This cottage is situated in Koutu, just steps from Lake Rotorua. You'll also find Kuirau Park and Tribal Lights Cultural Theatre less than a mile away.
Will I be able to park at this cottage?
Yes, there is a garage.
Is this cottage next to a casino?
No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.
What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Serenity on the edge of the lake?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside cottage include a fireplace and a jetted bathtub in each accommodation with some featuring lake views.
Does Serenity on the edge of the lake have a hot tub?
No, but this cottage offers jetted bathtubs in all accommodations.
Does this cottage offer breakfast?
No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?
No, pets aren't allowed at this cottage.
Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?
No, there aren't connecting rooms at this cottage.
How far is the airport from this cottage?
The closest major airport to this cottage is Rotorua (ROT-Rotorua Regional), which is 7.2 mi away (17 minutes by car).
Can I book a room with a balcony at Serenity on the edge of the lake?
Yes, every accommodation at Serenity on the edge of the lake comes with a balcony with some featuring lake views.
Serenity on the edge of the lake Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers 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.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 134 out of 134 reviews
10 - Excellent
134
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 134 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 134 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 134 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 134 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Amenities
9.8/10
Property conditions & facilities
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Kerry H.
Feb 24, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Clean house with a comfortable layout for the 6 of us.
Kerry H.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
10/10 Excellent
Gail D.
Jan 8, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Great location on the lake! Excellent accommodations, well appointed with everything needed for a comfortable stay. Very clean with high quality linens and towels. We really enjoyed our stay at this special place!
Gail D.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
Laura W.
Dec 6, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We loved our time in Rotorua and the home was restful and so nice to relax at after our day activities.
Laura W.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
10/10 Excellent
Paul M.
Oct 31, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Our Host, Rob was gracious and informative. The cottage had all that we needed for our 3 night stay. A great choice for any plan to visit Roturua.
Paul M.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Nichole T.
Oct 18, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely location
Nichole T.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Martha K.
Oct 2, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Oh gosh what a great place. It served our needs perfectly. View was excellent though, sadly, seasonal and rainy. The place was well equipped with everything we could have needed. Could not have asked for anything more.
The owner had thought of absolutely everything to make our stay very comfortable.
Kim
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Virginia N.
Jun 5, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
The Cottage was perfect in every way. Rob is an amazing host and we had everything we needed.
Virginia N.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Suzanne T.
Jun 2, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing property
The property is absolutely gorgeous, the host goes above and beyond, and there is an abundance of equipment: towels, kayaks, heaters, sky tv, etc. Our stay was wonderful!
Suzanne T.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Frank L.
Feb 27, 2025
Frank L.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Michelle F.
Jan 2, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Loved it! Didn't want to leave
We absolutely loved this place and could not have asked for better accommodation and hospitality. The house was beautiful, cosy and very clean and tidy. It had everything we could ever need or want and a few new exciting things to explore, including a TV sound bar and plenty of kayaks for lots of water fun.Being right on the lake was such a great experience for our family. The location was picturesque and super handy to lots of local attractions and a supermarket. Rob was a fantastic host and offered ideas for our stay, especially as it was over New Years Eve. We would 100% recommend staying here. Staying in such a beautiful place really enhanced our time in Rotorua, alongside all the fun local attractions. Thanks so much Rob, we will be back!
Michelle F.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Lauren M.
Dec 25, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Best accommodation
We had a fabulous time at this property. Rob had thought of everything and our stay could not have been better.
Lauren M.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Andrea R.
Dec 23, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect spot to relax
We couldn’t recommend Rob’s house more highly. He has thought of everything to make for a super-relaxing and comfortable stay. The kids loved the kayaks, and the view from the main bedroom and decks is stunning.
Andrea R.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth B.
Nov 15, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Betty Boop
Awesome in all respects. We were met by Rob, our host who walked us through the property. Absolutely everything you might need was available. The four of us were blown away by how our hosts went the extra mile to ensure our stay was super enjoyable and relaxing.
Rob is an amazing host! His cottage is well kept up and he provides lots of nice little touches that made our staff very enjoyable!!
The view of the lake is amazing!! Lots of space!
Would definitely recommend this place!!
Amy
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Tom F.
Aug 20, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Tom F.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Clare B.
Aug 17, 2024
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.
Clare B.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Erin W., Minneapolis, USA
Jun 21, 2024
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.
Erin W.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Trana M.
Jun 3, 2024
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.
Trana M.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Michael C., georgia
May 30, 2024
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.
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.
thomas
10/10 Excellent
Jared L.
Apr 1, 2024
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.
Jared L.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Raewyn R.
Jan 15, 2024
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.
Raewyn R.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Chuck B.
Dec 10, 2023
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.
Chuck B.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
10/10 Excellent
Carleen G., Tauranga New Zealand
Dec 10, 2023
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.