The location surprisingly turned out to be perfect (if you rent a vehicle)! I was able to travel North or South, East or West. Visited the garden frequently, had access to Hobbit town, the Mall at the Base, Raglan tourist area, hiked Hakarimata Reserve and go strawberry picking...and the list goes on. Daniel is extremely forthcoming about areas to visit and is an very good guide. I had a very nice and comfortable room and felt most welcomed.