4.1★
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7 Guests
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3 Bedrooms
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1 Bathroom
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Pets Yes
Features
- Off road parking
- Ground floor bedroom
- Open fire
- Garden / Patio
- Washing machine
Reviews & Ratings
* Based on a combined average customer score
47 Customer Review(s)
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Karen 
“Property is great, Bachcare not so much.”
Fantastic outdoor area, loved the fireplace and space. We had all we needed in and out of the place. Small, warm and cosy interior. Very close to the lake front, lots of exploring to be done in the area. Can't beat the views from the deck. Well equipped kitchen. Indoors perhaps needs a bit of attention (Bachcare's "high standard" (their response when I questioned the much higher fees that they tell me is standard in the industry). Average clean, bugs all over the toilet ceiling and flaking ...
Fantastic outdoor area, loved the fireplace and space. We had all we needed in and out of the place. Small, warm and cosy interior. Very close to the lake front, lots of exploring to be done in the area. Can't beat the views from the deck. Well equipped kitchen. Indoors perhaps needs a bit of attention (Bachcare's "high standard" (their response when I questioned the much higher fees that they tell me is standard in the industry). Average clean, bugs all over the toilet ceiling and flaking paint on the floor. We paid $156 for cleaning a very small place and $175 for linen for 3 nights (So a total of $331 on top of the accommodation) There is a BIG rabbit problem in the area and the grass (and parts of the deck) were covered in rabbit poo. Plenty of holes around. The number of rabbits out at night in the area is incredible, we counted 20 in about 200m (mentioned by every local we spoke to). Dog owners, it's dog friendly but there are 2 bachs behind and not fenced (they were empty when we were there so were lucky), and if your dog likes to chase rabbits...!! Otherwise our dog had a ball.
- Karen, July 2024 -
Michael “I am sorry but it came across to me because the location of the property is so nice little to no attention is paid to the house itself.”
Yes, it is great if you can spend all of your time outdoors but if the weather is not nice the house and furnishings are very cramped. Furniture is extremely worn. Beds are uncomfortable. Service fees are extremely high. The management company running the listing is awful. All my questions to the management company appeared to be answered by AI bot.
- Michael, May 2024Thank you for taking the time to provide this review. We assure you that Bachcare is listening and our team will pass on this feedback to the owner. Bachcare
Jenny “Magic property as always, beautifully clean & tidy.”
- Jenny, March 2024Kate “This is more a reflection on bachcare than the property itself, but there were many hidden fees that didn't become apparent until the last steps of booking.”
It was silly of me, but I was rushing through the booking process as I was short on time and was shocked when the final bill was almost double what was advertised. Excessive linen fees, admin fee and 'owners supplement'?! fees drive the advertised cost up to literally almost double!! This felt intentionally deceptive and while not illegal, is not fair practice. Advertise the actual fees!!! Instead of sneaking in costs. Also what in the name is an owners supplement fee about? Surely the rental cost is the owners 'supplement'!!! The outside of this property was gorgeous and a great location. The bach itself was largely fine, the cleaning job was lazy with bugs and cobwebs around the place, and all dishes needing a good scrub before we could use them. The bunk beds inside were very uncomfortable. And the toilet was unusable. There is no screen to protect from bugs and at night it became absolutely full of gnats. We all chose to toilet in the bushes in the rain rather than use that toilet, as bugs would get in your eyes and yes, underwear while you tried to get them back on! So gross. A screen for the bathroom is an absolute necessity for this property. Overall my assessment is that the outside setting was absolutely amazing. Inside Bach was only OK. And the toilet was unusable. And bachcare are money grabbing and deceptive. We will not be using this service again in future.
- Kate, December 2023We are so very sorry that you felt let down by our service as this is certainly not what we would have hoped for you. The issues you have raised will be addressed. Bachcare
Craig “The bach itself is a lot smaller than how it looks in the pictures, but it was fine for our needs and the outdoor sleeping helped.”
Unfortunately it was very unclean - there were dead spiders in the oven's warming tray, a dirty rag left under a pillow on the couch and a lot of dust and cobwebs about. One of the towels in the bathroom had dead bugs all through it, so had most likely been left there a while. We couldn't get the TV in the sleepout to work.
- Craig, September 2023Thank you for taking the time to provide this feedback and our sincere apologies for not having the bach presented to our usual high standard. We will address this with the local team. Bachcare
Welmoed “We visited in wintertime, and in our view the house is more a summertime house.”
During our stay in winter it was too chilly, not well isolated and quite humid.
- Welmoed, July 2023Thank you for this feedback and we will share this with the owners. We do hope to welcome you back. Bachcare
Tania “Whilst small this batch packs a punch.”
Comfy master bed had the best sleeps, awesome shower pressure, heaters worked well. Fire was nice, plenty of wood available. Having your own jetty is so good. Fishing was good caught 8 on the lake. Lots of cooking utensils and plates etc. We didn’t use the outdoor fire but will next time. Our little Dog loved the place to. Thanks Kingfisher we will be back one day!
- Tania, May 2023Sasha “Great stay, awesome traditional kiwi batch Nothing fancy but lovely and cosy.”
Price should reflect this but noticed nightly price has shot up since we booked. Great peaceful place with awesome birdlife. Also worth noting only enough firewood in basket for one possibly two nights then its up to the guest to crawl under house where wood is stacked away in furthest point to gather and haul up to the house. Not good if elderly or in our case have bad knees. Also no firepit however there is still the outdoor fireplace so photos could do with updating.
- Sasha, August 2022We are delighted you enjoyed your weekend at this fabulous bach and thank you for taking the time to review your stay. Bachcare
Angela “WOW WOW WOW, what a magical place to stay.”
Even though it rained ALL weekend we had the most fabulous time. The covered in outdoor area was a life saver. We made the most of the outside fire to keep us all snuggly warm. We managed to get out on our boat (which was conveniently moored right outside the Bach). We caught some trout which we cooked on the BBQ that night. Such a fabulous location. We will definitely be back. Thanks you so much for sharing your home with us.
- Angela, August 2022Tania “Cute Bach, great location and good to be able to tie the boat to the jetty.”
Good supply of firewood which was needed. TV Freeview did not work. Oil column heater in outhouse wasn't suffice to keep warm during the night. Second bedroom in house wasn't really a bedroom as was a thoroughfare to the toilet.
- Tania, July 2022Thank you for your review, Tania! We're glad to hear you enjoyed this property's location, the fireplace and boat jetty. We're sorry to hear the Freeview wasn't working and are looking into this. We'll also look at your recommendation about heating. We try to make the configuration clear on the listing and the photos, but take your feedback onboard about bedroom 2! Bachcare
Heidi “We had a lovely time.”
It was fantastic to be able to have our dog with us. The location is perfect with the park and lakeside close by.
- Heidi, June 2022Aaron “Loved our stay!”
Such an amazing spot on the river. Incredibly peaceful and right in amongst the native wildlife. Bach is small but had everything we needed and was cosy and warm with heating. The outdoor living spaces are fantastic and we got the kayaks out for a paddle on lake. Will definitely stay again!
- Aaron, June 2022Pru “It was a lovely location and appreciate been able to bring dogs.”
It would be appreciated to have kindling wood/fire starters and dry fire wood. The oven needs cleaning and general TLC would improve your stay.
- Pru, April 2022Brett “A magical spot, right on the riverside.”
The Kayaks were puy to good use exploring the river and it coukdnt have been a more relaxing stay. The weather was awesome and very little wind. Nice place to unwind for a few days...
- Brett, March 2022Claire “Wonderful location.”
Very cute cottage and sleep out, which is very well equipped.. Definitely a summer retreat haven.
- Claire, December 2021Karen “Nice place for a family getaway, beautiful spit on the river.”
BUT...ensure bachcare provides checking access to the bach information! We didn't get this and it was just fortunate that we were able to call past early and the cleaner was still there
- Karen, October 2021Thank you for your feedback, Karen! We're glad to hear you enjoyed your stay at Kingfisher! We're sorry that there was confusion with the communication on the day of arrival regarding guest access details and are glad that was sorted before check in time. Bachcare
Nikki “Really idyllic spot and the accommodation was spacious, with a well-equipped kitchen and lots of heating options for the winter.”
Outdoor space was great and such a treat to be able to use the kayaks. However, there were missing basic essentials when we arrived but the host/manager arranged for that later in the night. It also needed a good clean, given a 3pm check-in, this was quite disappointing to see such little effort. Its location, setting on the river was really its star quality.
- Nikki, July 2021Thank you for your review, Nikki! We're glad to hear that you enjoyed Kingfisher's outstanding location, its spaces and comfortable amenities! We're also glad to hear our local team were quick to deliver the required supplies as soon as they were able to, and we're sorry that the clean wasn't up to the expected and usual standard we offer. We've addressed this and will ensure the level of cleaning is maintained going forward. Bachcare
Nikki “Really idyllic spot and the accommodation was spacious, with a well-equipped kitchen and lots of heating options for the winter.”
Outdoor space was great and such a treat to be able to use the kayaks. However, there were missing basic essentials when we arrived but the host/manager arranged for that later in the night. It also needed a good clean, given a 3pm check-in, this was quite disappointing to see such little effort. Its location, setting on the river was really its star quality.
- Nikki, July 2021Thank you for your review, Nikki! We're glad to hear that you enjoyed Kingfisher's outstanding location, its spaces and comfortable amenities! We're also glad to hear our local team were quick to deliver the required supplies as soon as they were able to, and we're sorry that the clean wasn't up to the expected and usual standard we offer. We've addressed this and will ensure the level of cleaning is maintained going forward. Bachcare
Rhiannon “Relaxing weekend getaway.”
The heat was on for our arrival, and once the fire was on, we were toasty. This property would be great all year round. If you're looking for a classic kiwi getaway, this is the place for you!
- Rhiannon, July 2021Emma “Amazing place to stay right on the water, great that the dog could come along too.”
will be back (:
- Emma, March 2021Kath “Idyllic spot on the river and close to the lake.”
We loved the outdoor living area and being able to kayak and swim right from the property. Recommended
- Kath, February 2021Paul “Location, provision of kayaks and the outdoor dining area are the highlights of this property.”
All were every bit as good as advertised. An ideal place for children who like (and are confident in) water. Great for one family to book if holidaying with others who book other cabins, as the fireside space can cater for 10-15.
- Paul, December 2020Kath “Pure paradise - Fantastic location, The Kingfisher is perfectly situated - backing onto the kuratau River.”
The outdoor area complete with open fire, BBQ and large spacious decking provides plenty of space for the whole family. Easily sleeps 6/7 with additional sleepout , we have stayed at the kingfisher before xmas , the last 3 years , (pet friendly) including our family pooch... 3 generations under the same roof with facilities suited to all. The private jetty with kayaks , board games, and being 2 minsxwalk from the lake front you couldn't ask for more. Amazing scenery, great location and well equipped house / fantastic hosts - its always going to get 10/10 from us. Can't recommend more highly -thamk you
- Kath, December 2020Caron “A relaxing spot!”
We enjoyed our stay very relaxing right on the river and a short walk to the river mouth where my husband did fly fishing as it was a bit windy to cast off the lawn at the bach the days we were there. Great kiwi bach very tidy and outside area was awesome for a bbq and open fire was great at night.We went during the week so very quiet. Loved it we will be back.
- Caron, November 2020Jamie “Amazing relaxing place to stay”
- Jamie, October 2020Maire “The property was well-located and had a lovely outdoor area and was well-stocked with crockery etc inside.”
The property really had only one bedroom, and a sleepout. A porch area with no door had a bunk in it, however photos suggested this was a third room.
- Maire, June 2020No “We are a group of 4 young adults who drove down to Taupo from Auckland and I can definitely say we will be back again!”
On first impression the house was just as beautiful as the images on the website AND the lovely Mike even put on the heaters so that the house was warm and cosy on arrival. Mike was an awesome host showing us around and letting us know to reach out if we needed anything. We all made use of the kayaks available, even spotted a school of trout swimming in the lake outside. The boys cranked the BBQ and set-up the fire (wood provided). Perfect for those trying to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city life! Thank you Mike, will be in touch soon :)
- No, June 2020Louisa “Awesome Bach by river very relaxing”
- Louisa, March 2020Jennie “Beautiful riverside paradise!”
Wine on the stunning deck, kayaking up the delightful Kuratau river and late night snuggles in front of the outside open fire...perfection. We stayed here for our wedding anniversary and it could not have been better. Cute bach vibes with an outstanding outdoor entertainment area. Thoroughly recommend :)
- Jennie, February 2020Kirsty “A great traditional kiwi Bach well equipped, comfy beds and lovely outdoor area by the river meaning easy access to the lake.”
- Kirsty, January 2020Sally “Perfect place for us and our young family, and we loved that the dogs could come as well.”
Great location and very good amenities provided. We want to come back soon.
- Sally, January 2020Bindy “We loved our 5 nights at this gorgeous wee bach.”
The location was incredible it was so easy being able to leave the boat in the river and the kids loved the kyaks. Beds were comfortable and the Bach has everything we needed
- Bindy, January 2020Kath “Absolutely amazing.”
. outdoor area was outstanding. Fire and bbq devine.. private jetty and kayaks were a fav with the kids.. pet friendly added the icing on the cake
- Kath, December 2019Dale “Wonderful location, outdoor living was excellent with cozy fire right on the rivers edge.”
Had a relaxing stay thank you so much:)
- Dale, November 2019Tim and Jill “This is a typical NZ bach, except in one respect: it is far better insulated and cosier than most!”
A great experience at this well-equipped, riverside cottage.
- Tim and Jill, November 2019Phillip “Wonderful place.”
The setting, the river, the ease of mooring the the jetty. Will definitely look to head back here.
- Phillip, October 2019Mick “A great bach in a wonderful position on the river.”
We had a lovely time here: walking, kayaking and generally taking it easy. Thanks for letting us bring our dog - he loved it too!
- Mick, October 2019Anthea “This place is great for the soul.”
Would liked to have stayed longer
- Anthea, September 2019Andre “This is a cosy spot for a small family to get away for a peaceful break.”
Staring at the stream next to the property , while sipping on your favorite refreshment, next to the outdoor fireplace was definitely welcomed. Highly recommend taking the kayak and exploring the stream, whick you can paddle either 2,5km upstream or to Lake Taupo. And for the chilly nights the fireplace in the living area heated the place up perfectly. Since it is pet friendly we will definitely return.
- Andre, August 2019Amanda “A small and basic bach but with everything you need for a short break away.”
Great location on the river and near the lake
- Amanda, July 2019Aaron “The property was excellent and was what we expected from the Web site.”
Really nice setting on the river. Very keen to head back in the summer (that's all going to plan).
- Aaron, June 2019Robyn “An absolutely awesome location and set up; just needs to be kept cleaner.”
- Robyn, December 2018Jonathan “Awesome location on the river where we spent all of our day time on the deck, fishing straight off the wharf and using the very generously provided kayaks!”
We had a lot of fun. Genuine old kiwi bach; nothing fancy but doesn’t need to be! Beds were comfortable. Also loved how there were a few board games inside to play at night time. Would love to come back sometime in the future.
- Jonathan, December 2018Brian “Wow, what a great place.”
The best bach we have ever stayed at in the sense of what it has to offer. Amazing quite spot on the river, canoes and separate sleep out made a good holiday fantastic. We went on a mild spring weekend and enjoyed days skiing at Whakapapa, however imagine it would also be a super place during the warmer months. Great little town with a convenience store and fish shop caravan. Excellent price for a well maintained bach with outstanding options, suitable for all. Thank you
- Brian, September 2018Nichola “Such a beautiful little bach in the perfect location for a quiet and relaxing break.”
Having the river and lake literally on your doorstep is wonderful, and there are also excellent amenities within easy driving distance.
- Nichola, August 2018Juliette “I had a lovely long weekend staying at the Kingfisher cottage last week.”
It is such a cute, cosy little place. I loved sitting on the deck watching the river, and relaxing inside at night. Great location too, with walks along the river and lake
- Juliette, August 2018Christina “Absolutely beautiful, really loved our stay here!”
The use of the kayaks was excellent and really added to our experience.
- Christina, April 2018Summary
- Bedroom 1: Bunk Bed
- Bedroom 2: Double Bed
- Sleepout: Double Bunk
- Bathroom 1: Toilet, Shower, Hand Basin
- Living, Dining
- Oven, Hobs, Microwave, Fridge, Freezer, Toaster
- Fireplace
- TV, DVD Player
- Washing Machine
- Parking
- BBQ
- Pets allowed
- Sorry, no smoking
Linen
Our linen service will provide all sheets, pillowcases, towels, bath mats, and tea towels for your stay. We’ll also make up the beds for you prior to arrival and strip them down after your departure. Pillows and duvets are provided at the property.
The property
Kingfisher is a 2 bedroom plus sleep-out Kuratau holiday home, situated in an amazing position on the Kuratau River... Relax on the sun drenched deck with the water on your doorstep. Moor your boat at the private jetty or kayak up the beautiful Kuratau River or 100m down into Lake Taupo. Three kayaks and life jackets included on site for use. This Kuratau holiday home has a cosy open plan lounge, dining and kitchen area, with an open Jetmaster fireplace (firewood supplied) for cooler stays. Kingfisher is very handy to the ski slopes, only 45 minutes away! When the weather is warmer, enjoy summer living and BBQ's with the family on the sunny deck! Bedroom 1 at this Kuratau accommodation is located off the lounge and is fitted with a double bed. Bedroom 2 is off the kitchen and is fitted with a set of single bunk beds. Located just beside the main house, the sleep-out offers further sleeping with a double bunk set. The family bathroom is located off bedroom 2. Conveniently located to local attractions and amenities, including skiing, biking, and the lake, this tidy Kuratau base is a great option for a family break away. For a peaceful river retreat... Kingfisher welcomes you!
As the property has unfenced access to the river, adults should closely supervise young children while outside to ensure they are safe around water.
Please note a bond may be charged at certain times of the year. One of our team members will contact you if this is required for your booking.About the location
On the opposite side of the lake to Taupo, Kuratau is a small peaceful town with plenty of outdoor activities on offer. Spend the day out on the water with kayaks, boats and water skis, or go fly fishing for rainbow trout in the Tongariro River. Being further away from the bustle of Taupo, it's also an ideal location for a relaxing holiday to get away from it all. All of our Kuratau holiday homes are pre-inspected prior to your arrival and are ready for instant online booking.
