Howard's Mountain Lodge

You can tell the owner has put a lot of efforts and thoughts into this property. There’s a shared kitchen area downstairs. Its location is closed enough to the walking track and you wouldn’t complain anything in this price. There is a piano in an open room but not know whether it is okay to play or not if it a private area (didn’t have the chance checking with the owner)

The hallway is a bit dark… but also making me thinking the house or some areas might suit a Harry Potter–style theme :)

Family room size, bathroom size, vicinity to kitchen. Very big and cozy shared lounge with couches.

Basic but very comfortable ensuite double room. No TV but that's ok. We didn't come here to watch telly. The shared kitchen is excellent. Has everything you need to cook a decent meal. The local Four Square petrol station sells excellent meat and veg. Location is superb. Looks like there's a trekking equipment rental shop at the lodge. And common rooms with TV and pool table.

Checking in was way too brief. It would have been nice to be given more information about the lodge, facilities, planned excursions, equipment rental.

Was a bit worried seeing other reviews, but everything was great. Early check in possible, rooms were clean. Owner is nice and helpful, even played piano for us during dinner, which was great. Kitchen is separated for guest use and private use, but all clearly marked.

There is not much to do in Waimarino. Restaurants seemed rather closed, FourSquare here at petrol station was quite small and overpriced. Would recommend to stock up elsewhere if staying longer.

Das Zimmer ist sehr nett un komfortabel. Die Betten sind sehr fein. Ich habe es auch sehr geschätzt das wir die gesamte Küche verwenden durften.Es gibt sehr viele Wanderwege in der nähe. Schade das wir nur so kurz dort waren.

Great location. Great for a stop over.

The banging doors were annoying beside our room

The Ruapehu house was perfect for our group. Plenty of room and everything we needed for our weekend stay.

The car park is very cramped. And hard to get in and out of. Preferred to park in the street.

PLEASE READ BEFORE BOOKING - PROTECT YOURSELF. Our experience at this lodge was a traumatic ordeal that resulted in a complete mental breakdown after an exhausting 6-hour drive. 1. Professional Incompetence: Right from the start, the staff showed zero professional competence. They struggled with a simple check-in, failing to even recognize our names despite multiple repeats. This extreme lack of patience and refusal to communicate effectively was a major red flag for the hostility that followed. 2. Deceptive Misrepresentation & Hygiene Hazards: The property is a classic case of false advertising. The actual state didn't match the description so we felt cheated. Other recent reviews also confirm serious hygiene issues and bedbug infestations, proving this property is unfit for guests. 3. Deceptive Inducement: When we raised legitimate concerns, his arrogance was shocking by stating: 'Leave now! I have plenty of customers, I will refund you.' Relying on this verbal contract, we spent time and money securing alternative accommodation. 20 mins later, he then systematically lied to us: first reneging to only a 'one-night refund,' and finally declining ALL refunds. No integrity. 4. Two-Faced Hostility: This was the most disturbing part. After shouting 'SCROLL OUT OF THIS BUILDING!' to intimidate us, the host attempted to flee without honoring his word. When we tried to stand our ground and request a professional conversation, he weaponized the police by making a maliciously exaggerated 'physical touch' accusation to cover up his own verbal abuse and fraud. He acted like a 'Hello Kitty' to the officers while being a monster to us. 5. A Message to the Host: If you truly studied Tourism Management, you have failed every ethical and professional standard. Hospitality is about safety and integrity, not using your arrogance to bully exhausted guests.