Fantastic spot to book for any Tongariro activities! I would not hesitate to book again. Comfy bed, decent hot water, good wifi, nice amenities, good garden, washer & DRYER (not many NZ places have both!!!). If you get into area pre-check in, drive 20 min. to visitor center to book shuttle if you haven't already and do any small hikes in area. I did Tawhai Falls and Mounds really easily. The day before Tongariro Crossing. The house is nice with extra touches such as, Cds, movies, & pantry of cooking essentials. The garden and small deck are indeed like the photos, very picturesque. The home is similar to ski lodge feel; off a small, quiet road. The restaurants nearby are quite nice if you have some money to spend rather than cook at house. I only went to Schapps for a beer since I stocked up in previous town on the way. Extra tidbit: buy gas in prior town, it is slightly cheaper. The Ruapehu chairlifts were closed for construction when I drove up in April 2019, but nice views, nonetheless. Overall, very happy with this stay.