We had an absolutely ball at Waitārere! The place has a lovely, homely vibe, and the forest right out the back feels like your own private retreat. The separate bunk room was perfect for the kids, giving them their own space while we enjoyed some quiet time. The house itself is fantastic, very clean (cleaner than my house!) and I loved-loved-LOVED the kitchen - a chef’s dream! It’s well equipped with everything you: plenty of serving dishes, wine glasses ready for a relaxing evening. AND sharp knives that makes all the difference, making cooking an absolute pleasure.Kim, our host, was incredibly responsive and welcoming, offering that genuine old-school Kiwi hospitality. We loved the little touches like little trinkets around the house; yummy teas stocked in the pantry, – such a nice, thoughtful detail.***The local community added so much to our stay. The nearby Four Square store was a gem, offering delicious meals, classic Kiwi treats and fresh bread made on the premises - Plus, the coffee is excellent! The whole community were so friendly and welcoming, and there's plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained (off their screens yay!) while adults could truly relax xIt’s close enough to Levin for supplies, but we really enjoyed supporting the local shops and soaking up the community spirit. All in all, this place is perfect for families looking for a peaceful, comfortable getaway with a touch of authentic Kiwi charm. Highly recommend it!
