Catherine and Mark were perfectly gracious hosts and we were very grateful to have this quiet, comfortable, neat and friendly place to stay in transit, as we were, from the eastern cape towards Taupo. Katherine was very helpful in suggesting places to eat (the 'Wairoa Club' is best for a sit down meal; and there are a couple or three options on the Marine Parade for 'take outs' that you can eat at picnic tables al fresco by the river just over the road.) The room is not Huge -- other people commenting in the guest book have referred to it as 'cosy' or like a 'nest.' Fair enough. For us, it was perfect, and we were very happy there.