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Lake House - Arapuni -Pukeatua, close to Cambridge/Matamata/Te Awamutu.

Photo gallery for Lake House - Arapuni -Pukeatua, close to Cambridge/Matamata/Te Awamutu.

Outdoor dining
Private kitchen
Private kitchen
Private kitchen
Dining

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 7

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Pukeatua, Waikato
  • Place, Waikato River
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Lake Karapiro
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Airport, Hamilton (HLZ-Hamilton Intl.)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 7)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

Lounge

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Lake House - Arapuni -Pukeatua, close to Cambridge/Matamata/Te Awamutu.

Stunning rural views & native bird life all in the comfort of our freshly renovated 3 bed home located in the tranquil Waikato farming district of Puketatua minutes from Lake Arapuni.
Explore the area & breathtaking scenery around Lake Arapuni, take a stroll over the Arapuni Dam swing bridge or lunch at Ruhbarb Cafe
Central to great locations & activities:
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, Lake Karapiro, Waikato River Trails, Biking, Walking, Hobbiton, water sports or trout fishing on the Lake.
Close to Rowing at Karapiro
Our warm & cozy 3 bedroom home can sleep 5 people (7 if needed utilizing sofa bed)
Bed1 Queen, Bed 2 King single, Bed 3 Double & sofa bed in lounge if required.
Self Contained - fully equipped kitchen - Mwave, Dishwasher, Fridge, Oven & all the usual accessories (inc S&P, oil), BBQ
Laundry -washing machine, iron & cleaning needs
Linen, towels, hairdryer provided
Outdoor area providing great views over beautiful farmland
Off street parking & parking available by request for boat or jet ski (please enquire at booking
Lake Arapuni is a hidden gem to visit, swim, Trout Fishing, Water or jet Skiing, walk or cycle the river trails, enjoy Rhubarb café or take a stroll over the Arapuni Dam swing bridge.
6 mins to Waikato River Trail Arapuni
Maungatautari - also known as 'sanctuary mountain' boasts one of the largest pest proof fences in the world and is a beautiful place to walk & enjoy the native wildlife.
25 mins to - Lake Karapiro, Cambridge, Tirau, Matamata, Te Awamutu
1 Hour to - Rotorua, Taupo, Tauranga or Hamilton
25 min to NZ Rowing at Karapiro, Lake Karapiro Domain
10-15 min to Takapoto Equestrian Centre, Hora Hora Domain, Piarere
45 in - Lake Mangakino
Mystery Creek, Hamilton Airport are 45 mins away
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Mountain view

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Exterior
Karapiro Cottage
Karapiro
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (18 reviews)
Karapiro Cottage

House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
For small children bring your own cot/high chair
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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

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
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit

About the area

Wharepapa South

Located in Wharepapa South, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari and Lake Karapiro, while Putaruru Timber Museum and Cambridge Museum are cultural highlights. 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.
View more Holiday homes in Wharepapa SouthOpens in a new window
Map
Pukeatua, Waikato

What's nearby

  • Waikato River - 4 min drive - 6.5 km
  • Lake Karapiro - 9 min drive - 12.9 km
  • Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari - 9 min drive - 12.2 km
  • Duxfield Reserve - 11 min drive - 17.2 km
  • The Red Barn - 18 min drive - 31.9 km

Getting around

  • Hamilton (HLZ-Hamilton Intl.) - 56 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Rhubarb Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Out In The Styx Cafe & Guest House - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Bruyce's Rockclimbing Cafe - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Heather’s Ice Cream - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lake House - Arapuni -Pukeatua, close to Cambridge/Matamata/Te Awamutu. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Lake House - Arapuni -Pukeatua, close to Cambridge/Matamata/Te Awamutu.?

As of 4 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lake House - Arapuni -Pukeatua, close to Cambridge/Matamata/Te Awamutu. on 24 Apr 2026 start from £76, 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 Lake House - Arapuni -Pukeatua, close to Cambridge/Matamata/Te Awamutu.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Lake House - Arapuni -Pukeatua, close to Cambridge/Matamata/Te Awamutu.?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lake House - Arapuni -Pukeatua, close to Cambridge/Matamata/Te Awamutu.?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Lake House - Arapuni -Pukeatua, close to Cambridge/Matamata/Te Awamutu. located?

Situated on a river, this holiday home is 5.5 mi (8.8 km) from Lake Karapiro and within 12 miles (20 km) of Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari and Duxfield Reserve. Grey Street Reserve is 12.4 mi (19.9 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

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. 27 out of 28 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 28 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 28 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

M Murtaza I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome Place!!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steph B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great stay, super private and relaxing! Everything you need for a dew days of R and T! Thank you
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Claire D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was welcoming sending all relevent info in plenty of time.The actual house was amazing .. clean, comfortable, and the views and all over ambience was incredible.. I wpuld definately recommend the Lake house to my friends if they want to know where to stay and if I come back to NZ wpuld love to stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jan 2026
Thank you Claire, so glad you enjoyed the house and surrounds on your travels, we would love to host you again anytime:) enjoy the rest of your travels
Verified

10/10 Excellent

paul k.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great getaway spot for a relaxing holiday. Everything we wanted and more. Tranquil views, and very private. Close to the lake, a 5 min drive, Our request for boat parking was provided no problem. Communication was perfect, House was very welcoming, tidy and comfortable. Lara was a great host, Highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jan 2026
Paul, Jo and their friends were wonderful guests so happy they had a great time at our place and the Lake. They took great care of our place and were very respectful and great to communicate with. Left everything so tidy also. Also great that they could bring their boat and we have plenty of parking to accommodate the water activities thanks again for choosing Lake House, would love to host you again if you are coming this way another time.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Russell D.

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

Relaxing family getaway

Such a great place to stay. Handy location if you are wanting to get away from it all Comfortable, neat and well equipped for a relaxing weekend away. No wifi which was a treat! Couldn't of asked for anything more, would definitely recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Apr 2021
Russell and his family were great guests, very tidy and communication was great would be happy to have them stay again
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew G.

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

Weekend getaway

Had a great couple of nights, even though it was wet the whole weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jun 2021
Thank you for staying and glad you still had a great time apart from the weather Cheers Lara
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rob E.

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

Beautiful little cottage

Lovely house with terrific rural views. Comfortable and well fitted out.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 17 May 2021
Thanks for your review Rob hope you enjoyed your time in the area
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tessa H.

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

Peaceful spot

A great quiet spot that had all we needed to relax in the evenings. Thank you
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr 2021
Thank you for staying with us and leaving everything so tidy when you left Great guests
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

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

Met expectations perfectly

Everything we wanted for a weekend away & more - tranquil green surroundings & smart comfortable house with great bedlinen! It met our expectations perfectly - recommend it unconditionally.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 23 May 2022
Glad you enjoyed your stay and the weekend was fun thanks again for staying with us
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tania M.

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

Perfect rural escape

The perfect place to base myself for a rural retreat from the city. Close enough to the local townships to top up supplies and then just enjoy the peace and quiet at the house. Has everything you could need for break away, very clean and tidy, and the heat pump makes the house warm and cozy on the colder evenings. Look forward to visiting again soon.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 9 May 2021
So glad you enjoyed your stay. Thank you for leaving everything so tidy and clean look forward to hosting you again
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mel T.

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

Lovely place to stay

Thanks Lara for a lovely place to stay. We had a great time doing the local night glow worm kayak at Lake Karapiro.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 May 2022
Mel - thanks for staying with us and great to hear the local attractions are alot of fun cheers Lara
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sheri O.

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

Peaceful but lots of outdoor activities

Quiet, private and close to the dam. Well located for the activities we wanted for our teens - cycling, kayaking (glow worm canyon nearby especially fabulous), bird sanctuary and plenty of walks as well as the Arapuni bridge and trout fishing. We'll be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 May 2022
Thanks for staying Sheri So glad you enjoyed yourselves and found so many great things to do in the area Cheers Lara
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sue G.

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

Close to Lake Arapuni & Sanctuary Mountain

Beautifully presented & fully equipped home with extensive rural views. Wake up to birdsong.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Mar 2022
Great to have you stay with us Sue - and thank you for the kind words
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jolene N.

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

Girls R&R getaway - Truly faultless

Our stay was excellent House location private which we loved The house was well equipped and the throws in every room made the rainy night we had extra cosy. The beds and linen were great for a perfect few nights sleep 💤 We opted to use the bbq each night which was great for us The host was friendly and helpful what a delight, thank you Lara 😊 Highly recommend! Be sure to go visit the Waihou River walk, the wooden farmer Cafe, Over the moon cheese factory, Arapuni damn suspension bridge and walk and Okoroire hot springs all in decent proximity to this house This house was perfect for us we hope you enjoy your time there as much as we did
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Feb 2022
Jolene and her friends were the perfect guests, sounds like they had a great time exploring the sights and things to do around and also the evenings together. Great communication and left home in perfect order would love to host them again thank you:)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jenny P.

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

Peace quiet and stunning scenery

A really relaxing stay. Peaceful quiet clean and just what we needed to reset before returning to work. Thank you.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Jan 2022
Great you had a good time and thanks for leaving all so clean Rose (the grey cat) had a lovely time also with you - thought she would never come home thank you
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robyn F.

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

Gorgeous views

Loved this special place amongst the beautiful farmland around the Waikato River.Gorgeous views.Close to Waikato trails. Very comfortable with everything we needed. Loved the beautiful bedding.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jan 2022
Thankyou both for staying with us, was a pleasure to meet you and so glad you enjoyed the countryside and river trails thank you also for leaving everything so clean and tidy enjoy 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tharanga C.

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

Quiet and tidy place

It was our second time on the property. We enjoyed our 3-day stay there. Pros: - The place is quiet, tidy. - The host is friendly and easy to deal with. - View in the afternoon and in the morning is breathtaking. - Closer to Trails Con: - The only con I can think of is not having Wi-Fi available, still, if you have Spark or Vodaphone you are safe. Highly recommend the place if you looking for an escape from all those busy schedules.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

sheryl s.

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

very comfortable get away

We had a lovely 4 nights here. We choose it as a cosy central base to explore the Waikato region.It did n't matter for our purposes that any shops were 15 -20 minutes away. We found it t have everything we needed for a comfortable base. One daughter wished there was some art on the walls to make it feel less new, thought it was clean, warm and well stocked and very nice views. the beds were very comfortable and nice linens.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard K.

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

A good base for exploration

A really well equipped and comfortable property. Quiet with great views over the surrounding countryside. This is great location for exploring the South Waikato - our family loved staying here.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janice P.

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

Great accommodation, had a wonderful time, handy to shopping and eating in Cambridge, Tirau etc.

Helpful host and we didn't want for anything on location, well equipped and such a relaxing enjoyable stay, Thanks you Lisa we had a ball.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

simon s.

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

Lake Top

I found the property perfect for what we needed working away from home, and Lara was super helpful and accommodating
Stayed 11 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maria M.

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

Stunning environment

Really enjoyed staying here - it’s peaceful, the house is very well equipped and the beds are v comfy and my usual bugbear is over showers but this one was great thx! Warm and when u walk literally 5m up the slope u get a view to truly savour. Wouldn’t have changed a thing - I should t have been surprised but I was about how much there is to do from this location - literally a hideaway that’s close to so much. Sold on the area and we will be back with our bikes! Thx so much
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 2 May 2021
So glad you enjoyed you stay, yes there is so much to do close by, we would love to host you any time again
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa J.

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

Great value

Lovely place to stay. Very clean and tidy.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Apr 2021
Glad you enjoyed your stay, thanks for leaving so tidy and clean
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul E.

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

Brilliant family getaway

The property was extremely clean and well kept. Kitchen had everything we needed and the beds beautifully presented and comfy. We arrived at night so the morning view over the hills was a stunning surprise and sight. Excellent communication with Owner, too. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Apr 2021
Glad you enjoyed your stay Paul & thank you for the great communication and leaving everything so tidy - we would welcome you again
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The amazing view and barbecue was awesome... Was very clean and dubble beds was comfy The single bed won't be comftable for an adult or adult child... But my daughter had no trouble sleeping in it
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020

About the host

Hosted by Lara McKenzie

Host profile image
Our Family has lived on this property for the last 20 years, our home is further up the drive so when we are not out water skiing or going to water ski tournaments with our children we are available if needed, otherwise prompt reply by phone.
It is a wonderful place with the quiet aspects of rural life, abundance of native birds and plenty to do around the district

What makes this property unique

Lake House is so close to Lake Arapuni , Lake Karapiro & the Waikato River Trails, even with Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari just up the road.
We are with in 25-30 mins of Cambridge, Tirau, Putaruru, Te Awamutu & 1 hour of Hamilton, Taupo, Rotorua, Tauranga so it is an easy drive to any activity you want to do

Languages:

English

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