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Retreat into nature, in rural Ngaruawahia. Relax in the outdoor bath.

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A backyard with a black fence, a grill, and a water tank.
A kitchen with a green countertop, a stainless steel sink, and a gas stove. There are hanging pots and pans above the sink.
A room with two patterned armchairs, a wooden nightstand, a bed with a floral bedspread, and a large window with a view of a lush garden.
A bathroom with a white bathtub, a wooden shelf with a cup and books, and a wall with a plant and a decorative panel.
A bedroom with a large bed, two chairs, a nightstand, a window with a view of greenery, and a wooden ceiling.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
Set in a rural setting, this 2-bedroom cottage accommodates 4 guests and includes 1 bathroom. It features a patio for outdoor enjoyment and is pet-friendly. Explore the Waikato River and Waingaro Hot Springs, both offering unique experiences in the area.

Highlights

  • Games

    A rare find - enjoy a variety of games available on-site.
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Dog-friendly
  • Barbecue grill
  • Patio
  • Onsite parking available
  • Internet
  • Refrigerator

Explore the area

View in a map
Ngaruawahia, Waikato
  • Place, Waikato River
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Ngarauwahia War Memorial
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Place, Waingaro Hot Springs
    ‪24 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Outside Bath

Bathtub

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Retreat into nature, in rural Ngaruawahia. Relax in the outdoor bath.

Rest in nature, at this rural unique and tranquil getaway.
Relax in the outdoor bath, watching the night sky.
Listen to the birdsong, laying in the hammocks surrounded by native bush.
Tuis feeding, Kereru perched in Kowhai trees and lots of other native birds darting in and out of the bush.
Situated 25mins from Hamilton, only a 10min drive to the Hakiramata Summit Track and loop track in Ngaruawahia.
Te Awa River Trail starts 10mins away at The Point in Ngaruawahia.
Raglan by the sea is only 56mins away.
25 mins into Hamilton Zoo.

The space
Queen bed on ground floor, double bed in the mezzanine.
There is a shower in the bathroom. An outdoor bath to relax under the stars.

Guest access
Although the owners live on the property, the Cottage sits in a private position. The Native Bush is also exclusively yours, while you are using property.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 18

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

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)

Dogs need to be under control at all times.

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 20089301ha
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
Host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the neighborhood

Ngaruawahia

Located in Ngaruawahia, this cottage is in a rural area. Lake Hakanoa Walkway and Waterworld are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Waikato River and Waingaro Hot Springs. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at FMG Stadium Waikato or Seddon Park.
Map
Ngaruawahia, Waikato

What's nearby

  • Waikato River - 12 min drive - 10.3 km
  • Ngarauwahia War Memorial - 13 min drive - 10.3 km
  • Waingaro Hot Springs - 24 min drive - 32.1 km
  • The Base - 27 min drive - 25.3 km
  • University of Waikato - 33 min drive - 43.5 km

Getting around

  • Hamilton (HLZ-Hamilton Intl.) - 41 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Whatawhata Tavern - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Copper Bean Cafe - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪The Backyard Gastropub - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪The Village Cafe - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Hot Stuff Takeaways - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Retreat into nature, in rural Ngaruawahia. Relax in the outdoor bath. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Retreat into nature, in rural Ngaruawahia. Relax in the outdoor bath.?

As of Sep 20, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Retreat into nature, in rural Ngaruawahia. Relax in the outdoor bath. on Sep 22, 2026 start from $121, 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?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Retreat into nature, in rural Ngaruawahia. Relax in the outdoor bath.?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Retreat into nature, in rural Ngaruawahia. Relax in the outdoor bath.?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Retreat into nature, in rural Ngaruawahia. Relax in the outdoor bath. located?

Situated in a rural location, this cottage is 4.9 mi (7.9 km) from Ngarauwahia War Memorial and 5.6 mi (9 km) from Waikato River. The Base and Lake Hakanoa Walkway are also within 16 mi (25 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 38 out of 42 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 42 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 42 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 42 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 42 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

4.0/10

Amenities

6.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great space for a weekend getaway. Loved the fire during our winter stay
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place was beautiful and clean, the host a lovely lady. The communication was a bit tricky for check in but apart from that it was great. Oh and the shower takes a bit to figure out but such a sweet place to get away
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We wish we'd had longer to enjoy the location, but this was a great place to stay within driving distance of the Auckland airport. Everything was very comfortable and well provisioned.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Fabulous place to get away!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful tranquil setting. Host was helpful, friendly also welcoming our pet. Fantastic place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Second visit with my puppy. The hosts Gaylene and her dog Lilly are very welcoming. Beautiful relaxing place we will definitely be back again. Thank you so much for having us.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on May 17, 2026
Thanks Sarah, you and Luna are always welcome.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect place to stay with our large Labrador puppy. Quiet and secluded. Can’t wait to return
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on May 2, 2026
Thanks Renee, You all are most welcome back at anytime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Was very peaceful stay nice cozy we totally enjoyed our stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 10, 2025
Clayton and family were great guests, leaving the cottage clean and tidy. Recommend to any host. Would welcome them back anytime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing host and a gorgeous place to stay. Lovely surroundings and very private
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We thought we had been transported to heaven. A beautiful, peaceful and very spiritual place - the hidden gems dotted around the property, the bird song that could be heard every day, the dreamy soak in the outdoor tub whilst the rain gently fluttered down on my head was exquisite. The spaciousness of the bedrooms and the quaintness of the roaring fire as day turned to night. We loved the experience and as much as we love our families and friends, this is one we are going to keep to ourselves..........we also intend to make this a yearly journey - a one in a million retreat. Thank you hosts it was everything (and more) that you advertised.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 10, 2026
Thank you for your kind words. I am so happy you all enjoyed your stay and all the reasons we love sharing Kereru Ridge. Thanks for leaving the cottage spotless 😍 Warmest regards
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Amazing spot, really cute and homely. We all loved our stay, they provided butter, milk and bread which was very nice of the host as most wouldn’t.We did get a bit cold but was really nice to have the fire place. Will definitely come back,
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful cottage far away from city and surrounded with trees. Thoroughly enjoyed the quiet night .
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was lovely and the rural setting was exactly what we needed for peace and quiet before the long journey home back to Canada. Everything was clean and comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Feb 27, 2026
Im pleased you enjoyed the quiet at the cottage. Safe travels. Would recommend this wonderful family to any host.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely beautiful place! The host was lovely and the house was tidy when we arrived, very cute little place and thoroughly enjoyed the bird watching shed, and the dog was a bonus to the cute little place !
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 15, 2026
Thanks Nani, I am glad you enjoyed your stay. Thanks for leaving the cottage clean and tidy. Welcome back anytime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome host who goes beyond expectations to truly make you feel at home. Weather wasn’t great during our stay so the fireplace was really like a treat for us! We loved every minute there, such a beautiful environment to slow down, spend some quality time with the family and feel refreshed. Thanks so much Gaylene!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on May 3, 2026
Im so glad you all enjoyed your stay, managing to rest and relax, during the ex cyclone 😉 Thanks Melanie and family.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a lovely and comfortable stay in a beautiful and remote area. Exactly what we needed. A kind host and Lily the dog greeted us. Altogether a very relaxed experience and would recommend!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The lovely host and lilly the dog greeted us when we arrived with our puppy. The place is better than advertised absolutely stunning. Outdoor bath, native bush and birds. Loved the puzzles. Heaven definitely staying again. Thank you so much for sharing your space with us.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 29, 2026
Thanks Sarah for your comments. Luna was such a gorgeous puppy that Lilly was intrigued with. Thank you so much for leaving the cottage so clean and tidy. Love to have you all stay again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
This is such a unique and beautiful cottage. The cottage is spacious, charming, and beautifully presented. All the extras the host provided (soft drinks, milk, coffee, bread, etc.) were a lovely touch and made the experience even more special. The nature walking trails and outdoor bath were highlights of our stay. The rustic, vintage vibe creates a wonderful atmosphere, and the fireplace adds a romantic touch. As an added bonus, I was able to bring my dog along. I've stayed in quite a few places, and this is by far the best. Highly recommended! 👌
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Ngarawahia blissful stay

Our stay was fantastic. A nice private stay with all amenities for a break away. We bought our bikes to ride the Te Awa bike trail, which was a short drive away from the accomodation.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a gem! Lovely setting, so many little extras. A great location for seeing NZ birds with a lovely outdoor setting with native trees.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 27, 2025
Thanks Marianne. Im glad you both enjoyed the cottage. Welcome back any time 😃
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Excellent Hidden Gem

Lovely relaxing place to stay. Lots of little touches to make the guest feel welcome. Very clean with an easy check in and out. Excellent stay
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Another wonderful stay. This is our second visit and will stay again next time we are passing through.Lovely and quite with a extra wonderful gift of watching a Kereru right outside the front door in the tree. Perfectly named accommodation
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
It was absolutely beautiful. The accomation was cozy and our host, Gaylene, was very quick to help if we ever needed anything :)
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 12, 2026
Thanks Varda. You were both most welcome.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful place to stay!

We really love the place! Nice cozy and quiet place to stay with the nature. Gaylene prepared everything what we needed and I can feel every touch how she care of the house and for the guests. We really enjoyed staying there. We would love to stay longer again next time.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Relaxing Stay.

We had lovely relaxing evenings after each day of golf. The cottage has everything you will need plus Gaylene is very accommodating when you require something extra.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

About the host

Hosted by Gaylene

Host profile image

Languages:

English

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