Wonderful host (or should I say hosts?) Very convenient location if you're going to the Waitomo cave tours. Really good price. Very fun, comfortable, and homey atmosphere (LOOOVE Ann's homecooked breakfast!). If you love animals, I REALLY recommend your stay here.
Now for the details!!! Our stay with Ann was very fun and pleasant. We didnt have any phone reception and it was getting late (probably about 8 pm). Fortunately Big Bird is very easy to find. First thing Ann asked us when we arrived was if we've eaten yet, my bf said not yet and Ann recommended a restaurant down the road that served delicious food (and dessert! Can't stress that one enough)! We went straight back to Big Bird after dinner and I went to see Ann just to chat with her for a bit.
As I was walking in the kitchen, I felt something jump on my shoulder...and it was the best surprise ever!!!! It was one of the cats!!!! Her name was Dottie, and Ann was ready to bring her down and I said it's okay, I loved it! I haven't had a cat jump on my shoulder before and I thought it was pretty cool! (FYI Dottie doesnt do this to all the guests so I felt very special haha) Anyways, I went on to talk to Ann. Long story short I told her I was sad we missed the tour and she helped us plan the next day so we could make it to the next tour. I was sooooo happy and excited!!! Then I went straight back to the room to tell the bf and introduce him to Dottie. He was very amused. 😁 Dottie really liked playing with our gopro wristband, next thing we know another cat came in to play too lol so we spent the rest of the night playing with them both. They made our night very happy and entertaining. So much so that we missed her while we were out the next day and Ann let us play with Dottie after the tour. We still miss her btw!!!
The tour the next day is another story and I won't spoil it for you. It's free if you stay the night and definitely think this is a MUST if you're in the area AND if you LOVE animals! Go meet them all! There's more than just the cats ;)
Ann is very warm and her husband is also very kind. We had a great stay. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!