Waiotemarama Falls Lodge

The location and support was unbeatable! Absolutely loved staying at the lodge and am already planning a future trip. We were provided everything we needed and wish we couldve explored more

The facilities were very useful but also a little outdated

This is probably one of the best places we’ve ever stayed at in the country. My partner and I are keen trampers and we immediately felt like stepping into the most luxurious hut with the wood giving a lovely homely feel. The front deck all across the lodge has an incredible view of the surrounding mountains. Candy and Rawiri are the most welcoming hosts and we loved our conversations with them during our stay. We were treated by some delicious veggies and herbs from their home patch upon our arrival. Candy showed us around the property, told us where to go to check out on some local glow worms and gave us all the practical details for us to make the most of our stay. They were also keen on sharing some of the walks and things to do in the area, and they were great advice. Our highlight was for sure Candy’s welcoming karakia and her stories about the local history of the mountains and its heritage; we really felt like we were part of the place for a while. Candy’s and Rawiri own story is fascinating as well and we felt privileged to be part of it. We hope we can come back to this special place one day. Thank you both.

Nothing, everything was great.

Perfect in all ways, host was amazing and helpful. Very relaxing and comfortable stay

All good

Candy was the perfect host as she went above and beyond her duty of manaakitanga( hospitality)… welcoming us on arrival Candy offered us vegetables from her garden before taking us to her beautiful, spacious lodge. She showed us through the accomodation and had pamphlets on offer to some of the walks in the area. We loved the coziness and energy of Waiotemarama lodge… so relaxing enjoying the views of the hills and bushland…the gas heater in the lounge was so wonderful heating the space and beyond beautifully. A highlight was a short walk to see the glowworms. There was nothing Candy hadn’t thought of for our stay… even had fresh bread, milk and other food items for her guests. Truely outstanding in every way…

N/A

Not far to travel from the main road but great to be in the forest and valley. Glowworms at night and veg from the garden.

A hidden paradise, loving it!

Fantastic place to stay in!

Огромный дом посреди леса! Прекрасный опыт для городского жителя увидеть звездное небо и послушать музыку ночного леса!

Stunning location, great hosts, comfy beds, plenty pantry items, surprise glowworms.

Fantastic private location surrounded by native bush. Host was a very special person and gave us a guided tour on arrival plus took us to Glow Worm grotto. Everything was well explained and documented. Breakfast was provided and plentiful. The design of the Lodge was very comfortable and the views spectacular. Just a short drive to get into Opononi. Will definitely stay again when in the area.

Our wonderful hosts were so welcoming to us and the property is huge and has an unbelievable view.

the serenity you could be forgiven for thinking your in a lost world

Large house set into the hillside. No light or noise pollution and just 10 mins from Opononi. Hosts gave us some lovely fresh produce from their garden and showed us where to see gloworms. I could write a whole essay - it was so good. Could easily have spent a week here rather than one night. Lots of provisions supplied. Highly recommend

Nothing at all

Tolle Lage und Ausstattung, sehr komfortabel und gemütlich, interessante Gastgeber/in, sehr viele wertvolle Informationen erhalten, leckeres Frühstück mit frischen Zutaten aus dem eigenen Garten

Es war ein wirklich außergewöhnlich schöner Aufenthalt, leider zu kurz

Stunning location and an unforgettable experience.

Nothing

Die Gastgeber sind super liebenswert, sehr zuvorkommend und freundlich. Sie versorgten uns mit selbstangebautem Gemüse, interessanten Hintergrundsinformationen zur regionalen Kultur und gaben uns viele gute Anregungen für Wanderungen in der Umgebung. Die Lage und Größe der Lodge ideal. Man hat einen wunderbaren Blick auf die Berge und über das Tal. Es war ein großartiger Aufenthalt und wir haben es alle sehr genossen da zu sein. Absolute Empfehlung!

Warmth and hospitality of the Host, the scenic setting of the Lodge, pantry was adequately stocked.

na

We really enjoyed staying in Candy and Rawiri's guest house! They even picked up their own beans and strawberries to share with us. We cooked with the pasta they had prepared for dinner. This house is really well designed, and Candy introduced us to tons of things we might need during our stay. They're very talented in many areas – we even played some music together and had a lot of fun! They're such kind and friendly people.

Every thing was better than I have ever had before the property was big the area beautiful so quiet and peaceful. The only thing we missed was seeing a Kiwi that occasionally appears

We everything I think I have covered it above

Waiotemarama Falls Lodge ist eine der aussergewöhnlichsten und tollsten Unterkünfte, die wir auf unseren mehrfachen Neuseelandreisen erlebt haben. Die Hosts Candace & Rawiri sind überaus herzlich und aufmerksam, die Lodge mit ihrer ruhigen Panoramalage und ihrem Komfort, eingebettet in überwältigende Natur ist ein wahres Erlebnis.

Absolut nichts.

We loved our stay at the Lodge. Candy and Rawiri are great hosts. <3 We could even pick some vegetables out of their garden for our dinner. They were always helpful and provided great tips for the area. The lodge has everything you need, is super spacious and has a great view. It is a special place. Highly recommend it!

If you visit Northland you simply cannot miss this place. The lodge is huge and totally private on top of a hill overlooking the valley and the waterfalls. The hosts Candy & Rawiri went out of their way to show us around the property, including a creek nearby where you can spot the glowworms at night. It’s a gravel road driving to property from Opononi but it’s well maintained and suitable for 2WD. Spend at least a couple of nights there, you won’t be disappointed!

Nothing, it surpassed our expectations.

Spacious clean house with outstanding bush and waterfall views, excellent hosts who went out of their way to ensure we were comfortable and had all we needed. Excellent facilities, fully equiped large kitchen, comfortable bed, large hot shower and efficient gas heating. Pity we only had one night.

Nothing

Beautiful spot, secluded, cozy, very nice welcome

All was good

The serenity of the place and the hospitality of the hosts Candy and Rawini. It was a perfect weekend away from the city.

The wild kiwis could have kept their noise down at night 😆

The location is peaceful and serene, surrounded by beautiful mountains with stunning sunrise views. The wooden house is tastefully decorated and full of character. The host was incredibly friendly and welcoming, even sharing about their homegrown vegetables and the local surroundings. We truly enjoyed our stay — highly recommended and would definitely love to come back!

No

Everything.Most friendly helpful hosts. Stunning location, unfortunately our visit was too short to benefit all this place had to offer.. We have already recommended it to friends and family and hope to be back for a longer stay ourselves.

I have stayed in 100’s of b&b’s. This was special. The welcome was perfect. Fascinating couple not ‘going through the motions’. The guide around the property was thorough. I will return with my partner (this trip was business).

Nothing!

The hosts were wonderful, very friendly. They met us with playing music. Location is extraordinary, yes, you have to get there using a gravel road but it was worth the effort. Fantastic sky with no light pollution, glow worms, kiwis making sounds from the bush. The view from the deck is fantastic. We were farewelled with a Maori song.

A couple of times we wanted to switch off the lights somewhere and internet also turned off. It looks like it is not powered independently from other lights.

Superb isolation No light pollution for star gazing Silence and tranquility The wide open verandah was impressive and the perfect place to reflect. Glow worms and possums were a treat.

Absolutely fantastic accommodation in a stunning location. Quiet and peaceful away from traffic and with dark skies at night but also only 10 minutes drive from shops and restaurants. Plenty to do in the area with great walks and drives. Lovely owners who provide welcome pack including bread milk fruit and fresh herbs and salad from their garden. Highly recommended

Nothing

Superb location Super helpful host Picking fresh vegetables from the garden Total privacy Bountiful supplies for breakfast Flowers from the gorgeous garden

The kiwis could have been more cooperative and the glow worms more numerous

Everything about this property is outstandingly good. Candy and Rawiri are welcoming and knowledgeable hosts who are there if needed but leave you to enjoy this comfortable and well equipped Lodge in total privacy. There is a wealth of information about what to do in the area too.

Nothing whatsoever.

Fantastic setting ,lovely house,great host

Candy, our hostess, met us at her own house set out of view of the rental property which was totally private and secluded in an idyllic hillside valley setting, richly surrounded by unspoiled nature. We were treated to a guided tour of the vegetable garden from which we were able to take anything we required. Breakfast provisions were delicious, plentiful and kindly supplied by our hostess together with other basic provisions in the cupboard. We couldn’t believe the size of the lodge which was light and airy with marvellous views all around and very comfortable, especially the bed. Candy showed us where to walk into the forest behind the house at night to see glow worms, we heard kiwis at night and enjoyed a wonderful dawn chorus of native birds. I rescued a little kingfisher which crashed into the window in the early morning- she was stunned and on her back but I gently tipped her the right way up and after a few seconds flew away. Candy is a fascinating lady with an interesting, adventurous life story. We admire your strength Candy, you have achieved what others dream of.

Having only booked one night’s stay!

Fantastic location, on high looking down the valley from a beautiful verandah. Lots of space inside. Welcoming hosts. Would recommend it to anyone.

Lovely position on top of a hill with gorgeous views across the property.

Nothing.

Everything!! Location, serenity, lovely home. Hope I can return one day.

The position was absolutely idyllic if you are looking for a fabulous view and serenity. The welcome was warm and genuine and very informative. The facility had everything one could wish for - spacious beautiful and comfortable. Foods generously provided.

Nothing

The location was amazing. Native bush and birds. The lodge is generously proportioned and well equipped. The owners are very hospitable. We appreciated the fresh vegetables from the garden along with the pantry items.

Remote but very beautiful

The location of the lodge was stunning. Situated in between two hillsides along the most amazing valley it just took our breath away. If you want to experience peace, quiet and the stars in all their glory this place is truly magnificent. We were meet by the owners and a tour of the vegetable patch followed where we were encouraged to pick produce for our dinner. What wonderful hosts, warm and knowledgeable. Inside was great, two bedrooms and all the facilities we needed to make this stay memorable. Only wish we could have stayed longer.

There was nothing not to like.

Stunning location Greeted with live music from the hosts Picked fresh vegetables and herbs from their garden Exceptional host- comprehensive tour and additional information Amazing garden complete with glow worms Pantry and fridge well stocked Kiwi! No wifi yay!

Mattress too soft for aged backs Kiwis night off😀

We weren't expecting a whole house to ourselves. It was so spacious and welcoming and to have it tucked away, surrounded by native bush where we heard kiwis at night, was truly spectacular

The master bedroom door needs fixing as it doesn't close properly and also bangs if it's windy. I put a pillow in front of it to stop this happening.

Everything was amazing and our hosts went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and comfortable! The personal touch that Candy and Rawiri put on this place was incredible! We will recommend this place to everyone we know and we will come back again to experience more of what the area has to offer!

Stunningly beautiful location and a very spacious, secluded property surrounded by nature. The host generously left us breakfast provisions etc

exactly as per the other reviews, we had a great stay. huge home, very clean comfortable and hosts couldn't have been more friendly. loved the fresh produce from their gardens and the views and bush tranquillity. highly recommended

Amazing location, beautiful house, very well equipped! Great for a relaxed vacation in the nature. Beautiful views of bush and mountains, , accompanied by the lovely sounds of water and birds. Glow worms nearby. Lovely verandah for a morning coffee or an afternoon tea... Both rooms have an en-suite bathroom, which is very convenient.

The drive from the entrance to the lodge has 2 rough patches that may be unsuitable for very low cars. Our Nissan Note's bottom hit the rocky surface twice, but luckily there was no real damage, just a very loud sound and maybe some small dents.

Everything was absolutely amazing. From the view to the property itself, everything was just breath-taking.

The weather but that isn't related to the property, zero complaints.

Beautiful welcome from Candy and Rawini. The lodge was a breath of fresh air, naturally nested between two maunga. Glow worms , wild pig, kiwi and our native birds all residents of this beautiful property.

I need like that we had to go home

We loved everything about this property. Amazing views with beautiful gardens. We spent time on the veranda watching the birds and passing rain showers as well as spotting wild pigs on the nearby hills with the provided binoculars. We visited the glow worms which was a treat, and heard the possums in the night. As nature lovers, we thoroughly enjoyed this aspect of the property. The kitchen had everything we needed and more, including a fruit bowl with fresh fruit, honey from their bees and a full pantry plus juice, milk and butter. There were even fresh flowers on the dining table that smelt delightful. The rooms and beds were comfortable, a washing machine and dryer is available, there is plenty of space to spread out and a fire place to warm the house in the evenings. Wifi was fast, we enjoyed the tv and many board games and books are available. There is even a folder about things to do during your stay and information about the local geography and fauna. Meeting Candy and Rawiri was also special. We were warmly welcomed onto their property, invited to tour their gardens and enjoy their music room. Candy is kind and full of life, and Rawiri gave us lots of recommendations for our holiday. Thank you so much for the wonderful stay, it has definitely been a highlight of our trip.

Candy was so friendly! She really welcomed us with such warmth. The house is beautiful (cosy beds, lovely view, very warm) and the grounds were amazing (glow worms on site! Kiwis running around) so peaceful and so worth it! Will definitely stay again!

Nothing! It was so exceptional

Amazing views. Very comfortable. Lovely big living room with balcony looking across the valley to the hills. Owners made us feel very welcome.

Pillows

The drive in is captivating - an unsealed winding road through a valley, definitely off the beaten track. The road up to the property is steep but the reward is spectacular views. Candy was thorough in explaining the house and our every need was catered for, including milk, bread, their own honey & pantry staples should we have needed to cook our own dinner. Candy shared knowledge of Māori & related to the sky & landscape. We snuck out and saw the glow worms & sitting on the verandah as the sun went down listening to the wildlife is an experience we won’t forget! We were sorry to leave and our only regret was that we were only there for one night!

What an extraordinary stay - I wish we could have stayed for weeks! Beautiful home in the most serene, remote location. Glorious views of sacred hills. Glow worms! Every need met. Loads of kitchen and cooking equipment, coffee, tea, milk, bread, jam, cereal, spices. Our hosts Candace and Rawiri were extremely cool - knowledgeable, friendly and helpful- and even treated us to a garden tour and mini-concert! Coincidentally, Candace attended the same high school as I - in San Diego California!

It was perfect.

This is a unique and wonderful place to stay, really special. It’s remote, peaceful and incredibly beautiful.

Nothing!

Excellent location. Host were very friendly and helpful

Such a peaceful spot; a truly delightful and welcoming host. The only wish we had was to have had more nights at the Waiotemarama Falls Lodge.

Nothing

Everything really. It was in the country and the owners met us and showed us through their vege patch..and later showed us the glow worms.

Stove needs maintenance

Clean spacious and in glorious quiet location lots of bird life but few animals roaming

Plentiful food provided, including fresh garden produce. Large living space with beautiful views. Very quiet and at night you can hear moreporks and take a short walk to see glowworms.

Sofas and bed a bit old and saggy. Be sure to bring dinner or procure it before 6:00 as shops and restaurants may not be open.

Stunning views! Great home Loved seeing the glow worms too

Didn’t know it was a gravel road. Literally the only bad thing about it.

Location is simply stunning, the house was amazing and the host was very helpful. She showed her property and gave us very interesting information about the place. And the glow worms was a plus! Highly recommended

This place is outstanding. Such a beautiful setting. Great place to stay.

Everything! We had a really great time, the accommodation was beautiful, and the hosts were friendly and welcoming. They even gave us some vegetables from their garden. Highly, highly recommend!

There was a great selection of food in the pantry for breakfast

A great place, great house and a great host! A absolut must to stay, but take minimum 2 nights!!!

Peace and quiet, excellent views of natural beauty. The sounds and sights of bird life. The lodge itself was spacious, clean and warm. Excellent hosts. Highly recommended

Nothing

Stunning view very comfortable and there are glow worms in the forest

Home was beautiful, very comfortable. Breakfast provided was great. Location was difficult, about 10km of windy gravel road with no lighting. Although we enjoyed our stay there, it was only an overnight stop so we did not have time to investigate the surroundings.

Because of the location, we would not choose to stay there again.

Friendly and locally knowledgeable hosts

A little tired around the edges

Friendly services

The location, the house itself.

The only issue I had about the house was the shower in the main ensuite the water was only a spray but other than that we loved it

It was in a spectacular location with beautiful view - all by itself . Very spacious and comfortable . Amazing sunrise views and those of the full moon . Need to come back when it is Matariki .

Candi and Rawiti were there to welcome us on our arrival and were on hand if needed. We were given a flying lesson on the house and its facilities, and introduced to the glow worm dell up the hill. Our visit was in the Autumn, so the large gas fire in the living room was very welcome in the evenings. The kitchen was well equipped, and the fridge and larder were stocked with goodies and ingredients to cook with. It was good to eat porridge and drink coffee whilst watching the sun rise over the hill from the veranda. Were the kauri forests and beaches not beckoning, we'd have sat there all day just watching the sun and rain on the woodland below the house. At night, I took a chair out back to watch the Milky Way (good dark sky!) and listen to the moreporks and the kiwis calling. Being away from any main road the surroundings are very quiet. It's a place I'd love to go back to.

Location beautiful, remote but easy to get to. Owner clearly very proud of self-built home. very generous supply of breakfast food and snacks. Clean and well-equipped.

Too much explanation at the start yet omitted to explain about possibility of gas running out for heating, So first evening a little chilly!

Nice property, built by owners in a spectacular location. nice beds and well outfitted

Property was good value and worthwhile. shower pressure was quite low