$$$, Rotorua
Fodor's Review:
Morning sunshine floods through stained-glass windows in Anneke and John Van der Maat's charming and relaxing country home, with its scenic views of the lake and Mt. Tarawera. Colored friezes run at ceiling height around every room; as befits two former professional rose growers, the decor emphasizes flowers. Throughout the house, there are mementos of the hosts' extensive travels -- a Buddha figure here, a prayer wheel there, as well as beautiful blue-eyed dolls from Europe. An antique chandelier is suspended over the table in the warm, five-sided breakfast room, where the morning meal includes homemade bread. One room is self-contained, with a separate entrance and a small kitchenette.
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip
