Cottage Lane is walking distance of town, even with wheeled luggage, Lesley's directions precise and necessary. Self contained ensuite room is as described, very clean, with good quality comfortable furniture. Dining area is well supplied with crockery, cutlery, tea, coffee and Lesley's tasty cookies. She is a busy lady but contact prior to arrival was always prompt and when we did catch up she chatted easily about her travels.
Tips: For those needing dark to sleep bring eye-mask as street lights and moon are beacons in the room; heating is available; TV signal is intermittent; wifi strong.
Everything is within walking distance, good range of shops, restaurants and day trips from the Harbour. Best filled pancakes there too! On a dull day visit Taupo Museum and Art Gallery with excellent Tongariro Crossing presentation and video of Poi Poi flax skirt making. Another day catch bus outside the Medical Centre (3 minutes walk from Cottage Lane) up to Huka Falls, and walk back along the river.
For those wanting an easy 10 km walk, follow the lakeside with beach hot springs to Wharewaka, have refreshments at waters edge cafe midway, and catch bus back at 3.10 pm. I stayed for 7 days although 5 would do, as Taupo has much to offer.