Hillside Homestead B&B

I had booked in to another hotel near the lake for 31st Dec night - the only night we were spending in Rotorua and on reading the reviews a few days before flying in we chose to cancel that and book a night at Hillside Homestead - or rather Jeff and Lorraine's lovely home! Best decision! This has been by far my best stay in a long time. Both my wife and I travel a lot for work and have stayed in exceptional properties globally but this was truly special. When we got in, Lorraine welcomed us very warmly and spent a lot of time with us working through our plans and what we could do or achieve. She then showed us our room - which was not just the room but the most amazing den that was just outside the room. The den has a snooker table (covered and probably not for use) and the most exquisite whiskey/scotch collection and looks over a lovely garden where they grow a lot of the veggies and fruits. The bed was lovely and the bathroom had everything you'd need. We went for a dinner that night and got back in late and before we had left, Lorraine had asked us what we'd like for breakfast. She was happy to accommodate some of our requests as well. Now the breakfast - we couldn't have started 2017 any better than that breakfast spread. I'll update this review to add photos later but it was brilliant! During our chat with them, we realized that Jeff had Maori heritage and we were actually in a Maori house! :) In calendar years both Jeff and Lorraine are on older side but they are incredibly young in conversation :) Highly highly recommended. Spend more than a few nights here - lovely hosts!