Tawhiri is a warm, private and fully-equipped three-bedroom cottage. The beds are good, the hot water is endless, and the WiFi is free. The property is surrounded by a large area of lawn and there are extensive decks on the North and East sides of the house - all of which you are welcome to use. Plenty of angles from which to enjoy our unsurpassed view of Mount Ruapehu. Waiouru is the southern gateway to both the Desert Road (SH1) and the Adventure Highway (SH49). It's an ideal base from which to discover all that the Central Plateau has to offer. See the other side of the mountain: ski Tukino as well as Turoa and Whakapapa; explore the Rangipo Desert, Te Onetapu and Ngauruhoe - for LOTR fans, that's Mordor and Mt Doom. Walk the trails and visit the nature reserves that most visitors never see. The world-famous Tongariro Crossing is an easy drive away, but there are many other hiking and tramping tracks, huts, nature reserves and other places of interest. Other opportunities include, climbing, fishing, hunting, and mountain-biking. As well the world-famous Tongariro National Park, access to the Kaimanawa Forest Park is a short drive away. Waiouru is well-known for its Army connections. From 1940 onward, generations of our soldiers have done their training and their balloted national service here. We are particularly happy to host them and their families for reunions or graduations - or simply to revisit and remember days gone by. For those interested in learning about our country's military history, the National Army Museum, with its library and archives, is just around the corner. The National Army Marae and the more recent Garden of Reflection are also close. Golfers, here's your chance to play a round at the highest 18-hole golf course in New Zealand - just minutes away. Extras: Linen (included); NOTE: Under Kiwi bach tradition you are expected to: Clean the house and do the dishes before you leave;
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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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
About the area
Waiouru
Located in Waiouru, this cottage is in a rural area and in the mountains. Ohakune Disc Golf and Mountain Bike Station are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Tongariro National Park and Mt Stewart Reserve. Fishing and swimming offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and horse riding nearby.
National Army Museum Te Mata Toa - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
Tongariro National Park - 19 min drive - 29.4 km
Big Carrot - 21 min drive - 33.0 km
Turoa Ski Area - 36 min drive - 55.5 km
Tongariro National Park Whakapapa Visitor Centre - 60 min drive - 95.4 km
Restaurants
Fastlane Restaurant - 6 min walk
Jailhouse Coffee - 6 min walk
Cafe Express - 6 min walk
Rustic Eating House - 5 min walk
Main Mess - 3 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Tawhiri Cottage, Waiouru pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Tawhiri Cottage, Waiouru?
As of 16 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Tawhiri Cottage, Waiouru on 13 Jun, 2026 start from S$106, 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 Tawhiri Cottage, Waiouru?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Tawhiri Cottage, Waiouru?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Tawhiri Cottage, Waiouru?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Tawhiri Cottage, Waiouru located?
Situated in the mountains, this cottage is 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from National Army Museum Te Mata Toa and within 20 miles (32 km) of Big Carrot and Ohakune i-SITE Visitor Information Centre. Tongariro National Park and Ohakune Disc Golf are also within 20 miles (32 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We were unlucky that the fireplace and heating system were not available so it was cold in the night despite the heat pump in the living room. We were glad to have the electric blankets.The twin bedroom was particularly cold (furthest from living room) and they were disturbed in the night by people using the bathroom.Several people also got woken up by the train going past.
Katie K.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 10 May, 2026
This is a very unusual review. The gas fire is not in service, but the heat pump provides plenty of warmth and the heating system works fine and transfers that warmth to all the bedrooms - as long as the guests don't turn it off. The two little girls who were in the twin room were very excited about performing in a choir the next day and probably didn't sleep very well. Unfortunately, we can't control the noise guests make when they use the bathroom. As far as I know no one has complained about that before.
A lovely cozy cottage with spectacular views. The cottage has everything you need for a short or long stay. The kitchen is cook semi-chef level. Heaps to do in the area. Our highlights were hikes to see Falls and Gollum's Cave.
Just stayed for one night on way to Wellington, accommodation was very comfortable and perfect location. Heat pump made the whole place nice and warm and the view of the mountain was awesome!
We really enjoyed our stay here! The house is very comfortable and full of lovely touches. The views were fabulous as well. We will be back again!! Thank you!
Really enjoyed our stay! it suited us well, plenty of room for parking, nice clean house. Communication was great and very flexible with our requests! Looking forward to staying again
We all really enjoyed our stay in a lovely house with beautiful views of the mountains. There was lots of room for us all, plenty of hot water, and the beds were very comfy. Thanks Ross! See you next time