Kauri Lodge Karapiro

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Reviews

1. Alfredo ★★☆☆☆

   Please be aware: they do not refund the deposit in case of cancellation. We recently booked our stay at Kauri lodge for the month of November. Unfortunately only a couple of days later we realised we could not stop in that area on that day. Therefore we cancelled it via the SMART system they use. We also had payed a deposit. Despite it was only a couple of days after we had made the booking the owners still would not return the deposit. I had to write to them several email before they eventually replied that according to the SMART system they are not obliged to refund the deposit. True, by reading the SMART policy: (Any refund of a deposit paid is entirely at the discretion of The Property, which is under absolutely no obligation to provide one). But still we would have expected some flexibility, we are still over 2 months away from the date. Think twice before booking with them.

   almost 7 months ago
2. Remarka6le ★★★★★

   We stayed at Kauri Lodge in Karapiro after our snow trip, using it as a base for Hobbiton — which is just 15 minutes down the road. The scenery around the area is absolutely stunning, and the peaceful rural setting was just what we needed to unwind. A quick note: Google Maps will take you slightly off course. There are three clearly marked signs leading to the lodge — ignore the pin, keep driving, and turn right at the third sign. Originally, we had separate accommodation booked, but my parents (who had already booked Kauri Lodge) insisted we all stay together. We weren’t sure where our original property was located, but they suggested we cancel ours and just pay a small fee directly to the hosts. This was no trouble at all — I was welcomed into the owners’ home, gave them my card, and the lovely lady processed everything on the spot while confirming the transaction both with me and on her end. Quick, easy, and very accommodating. The owners themselves are a lovely older couple who made us — my wife, child, grandparents and niece — feel very welcome. They’d set us up with breakfast items for our two-night stay and explained all the house details clearly. The rules are very “grandparent-style” — shoes off inside, conserve water, quiet hours in the evening, limited wifi (so no streaming or heavy downloads), etc. All totally reasonable given the location. As others have mentioned, this is their actual home. You’re in a private section separated by a door (locked on both sides) that they open only when guests leave for cleaning. I’ll admit I’m not usually the most comfortable in shared arrangements, and I know some won’t be either, but they gave us space and kept to themselves, so it didn’t bother me beyond being something I was aware of. The house was spotless — especially impressive given it’s on a working farm. It sleeps seven comfortably, with a shared bathroom and toilet, which worked fine for our group but is something to keep in mind if you’re a larger group. The kitchen is fully equipped if you’re cooking in, but they also provide recommendations for local restaurants, cafés and takeaway places. There’s Sky on the TV, and even a few toys for younger kids to keep them occupied. Only minor gripe was the mention of a washer/dryer — it’s actually the owners’ machine, and they offer to do your laundry for a fee. We weren’t too keen on someone else handling our clothes, so we chose to wait until our next stop, but honestly, it’s a minor thing and not worth docking a star over. Beautiful animals roam the property and add to the charm. All up, a warm, cosy, and genuinely welcoming stay with thoughtful hosts. Would happily stay again.

   almost 8 months ago
3. Kyle Johnson ★★★★★

   We chose this place due to its proximity to Hobbiton and the pictures of its gorgeous views. And after arriving, we were blown away with just how beautiful the property was. We appreciated how quiet and relaxing our stay was. Shona and Dave (the owners) were lovely to chat with during our check in. If you need a quiet and serene get away, this is the place.

   almost 2 years ago

1. Kyle Logsdon ★★★★★

   We chose this place due to its proximity to Hobbiton and the pictures of its gorgeous views. And after arriving, we were blown away with just how beautiful the property was. We appreciated how quiet and relaxing our stay was. Shona and Dave (the owners) were lovely to chat with during our check in. If you need a quiet and serene get away, this is the place.

   almost 2 years ago
2. Mark Reeves ★★★★★

   Wonderful property and charming owners who were so friendly, welcoming and helpful. The property overlooks beautiful rolling hills - just like Hobbiton without the Hobbit Holes. Hobbiton is a 12 minute drive from here. We loved our night here.

   almost 3 years ago
3. Edmond Chow ★★★★★

   We loved the place so much. The view is amazing. Libby and Jim is very friendly. We loved the dogs, horse ride etc. Eggs, butter, bread, milk, orange juice is provided. Plenty of kitchen utensils to cook our own dinner. Cambridge town is a short drive away. A short drive away to Hobbiton is a big plus too.

   more 6 years ago

1. Wendy Marsden ★★★★★

   Our family absolutely loved our visit to Kauri lodge. On our first ever trip to NZ our farm stay was just what we needed to break up all our driving. Libby and Jim were amazing offering food, drinks and anything we needed. Our children haven’t stopped talking about all the animals remembering the names of them all. The girls were stoked to have two of the cows named Zoe and Ella after them. The ride on Tuscany made their day. The cottage and views were breathtaking and we wished we could have stayed longer. Thankyou for making our trip so memorable.

   more 6 years ago
2. Sean MacBride-Stewart ★★★★★

   This is a great place to stay and experience rural living in one of the prettiest parts of New Zealand. Libby and Jim are wonderful. The accommodation is well set up with everything you need and more. We had a lovely night out on the patio having a BBQ and in the morning got to meet Tully, Dante and Jess, as well as Clover the cow. Of course we can't forget the dogs Carrie, Bazil, Tess and Wiggie.

   more 7 years ago

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