We sent a very last minute request to Takoha & Simon to stay in their home. They were extremely responsive and within a few hours we were on our way to Franz Josef.
The place was ideal: there was a lovely communal area with a kitchen and living room and garden. The house is beautifully decorated with a focus on the local wildlife and geography. Our room was huge.
Their place is at the very end of one of the two main streets in Franz Josef, about 5-10 minutes walk to all the bars and restaurants. It's so peaceful; you feel completely removed from the tourist filled town when you are in their home, and the house is surrounded by thick bush (there are even glow worms just off the driveway). Each room is surrounded by trees and ferns, so it does feel almost tropical and very serene. Like being in a tree house (but with all the home comforts you could need).
We loved our stay and would return in a second.
Thanks again,
Andy & Naomi