We loved our stay at Mary's place in Taupo. We had a great time going to the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and shopping in Rotorua. The next day we hiked in the Tongariro National Park. The lake is beautiful and Taupo had many offerings we weren't able to take advantage of. The accommodations were really nice (great shower and hot water!), lovely view and very convenient. Mary provided fruit, coffee, eggs, bread, milk, etc. We also really appreciated the fluffy bathrobes. Wish we could have stayed longer. Mary is a great host and very accommodating (especially with the use of the washer/dryer). Five stars...can't recommend highly enough.