Kate has a beautiful big place that is especially well set up for anyone who thinks they'll spend a night in, with a fire, big kitchen with loads of kitchenware, and heaps of games, comfy couches and quiet corners to relax in.
It's about a 30 minute walk before you hit town without too much in between, but that suited us fine. It won't take you longer than 45 minutes to walk to most central places of interest, including Cataract Gorge, and I considered the exercise sufficient reason to treat myself to a few beers at the excellent Saint John bar.
Finally, with the fire lit and the heater on, it's warm throughout the house - we had no issues with cold (we visited at the end of Sept, not quite brass monkey season but chilly).
Thanks Kate!