If you are visiting Tongariro National Park, you must stay with Barb and Mike. The place may initially look a little remote, but it is part of the charm and is actually just a stone's throw away from the national park, much closer than Taupo and way nicer than staying in Turangi. Barb and Mike were very warm and welcoming hosts. I really like how they paid attention to details (though not neurotically so). For example, after a day long of hiking, I came back to my room on the lower level of the house, the place was lit and the heater was turned on. They are very knowledgeable about the area and can recommend various activities for you. I really enjoyed the Taranaki falls and the Waitonga walking tracks. Also, I would totally recommend having Barb be your chef while you are there. I was there for two nights and the first night we had rosemary roasted lamb and the second night we had this amazing honey mustard glazed chicken. Really, why would you want to drive anywhere in the dark for dinner. Of course, Barb also packed left over lunch for my hiking day. They should call it bed, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I so would come back and recommend them anytime.