Ruth is a wonderful host. The house is clean and warm and is filled with lovely touches to make you feel at home. For example she had containers of cookies and cereals, an assortment of teas, as well as blankets and cushions. I visited during winter and felt warm due to the effective heater and electric blanket( turned on for my first night-thanks Ruth!). I enjoyed staying in the area -its about a 20 minute walk to Titirangi where there are lovely cafes, art galleries, shops and a supermarket. You can also walk in the other direction to Glen Eden which is slightly further. There is a library, train station, cafes, hair dressers etc. It's very easy to get a train into central Auckland from Glen Eden and they're fairly regular. If you're not a walker I'd recommend having a car or bike. I had a very easy and enjoyable time at Ruth's!