Jack's Hut

Lake Tarawera, Bay of Plenty

Jack's Hut is set only minutes from the edge of Lake Tarawera and 24 minutes from Rotorua.

An original South Island shepherd's hut built in the 1930s, Jack's Hut has been lovingly transformed into an atmospheric getaway for two.

Set beside established bush within Spencer Lodge Estate, it's one of three private glamping retreats, each positioned with its own private outdoor space and outlook. Spencer Lodge sits higher up the hill, while Jack's Hut enjoys a peaceful, semi-rural setting with views across Lake Tarawera to Mount Tarawera and the lakeside homes dotted along the shore.

Inside, there's a cosy double bed, table and chairs, with double doors opening onto a spacious covered deck. A separate kitchen hut has everything needed to prepare a simple meal, plus a gas Weber BBQ, adjoining toilet and al-fresco-style shower.

Outside, soak in the hot tub for two and enjoy a movie on the projector, or relax on the porch swing with lake and mountain views. Native birds surround the hut, and you may spot fallow deer playing in the paddock below.

As evening falls, toast marshmallows over the outdoor fire pit, watch the lights twinkle around the lake and gaze up at Lake Tarawera's beautiful night sky.

Last updated 15 Sept 2026

EATING AND DRINKING

Jack's Hut is self-catering. Just bring your own food, and cook meals using the Weber BBQ, single induction hob and mini oven/air fryer. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you'd like to dine out, Rotorua is only 25 minutes away and offers a diverse range of restaurants. For nearby options, you can check out The Landing Cafe for brunch, or Eastwood, which serves pizza, burgers, and beer. In town, you'll find Eat Streat, an undercover dining hub with numerous al fresco options available year-round. Another great option is Capers, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as an artisanal and organic food shop next door.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Rotorua, 25 minutes. A few takeaway shops are 15 minutes away at the bottom of Tarawera Road.

THINGS TO DO

Stay cosy on cooler days by snuggling up with a movie (Netflix available), playing board games, and turning on the electric heater.

On a fine day, you have the great outdoors to explore. Enjoy the stunning bush on the property or visit Stoney Point beach - just a quick 2-minute stroll from the property. Go swimming, or try kayaking, and fishing with the boats and rods provided (be sure to try catching the famous rainbow trout from the jetty!).

The area is also home to several walking tracks and a public tennis court, as well as fallow deer and sheep that you can feed and pet.

During your stay, we want to ensure you have the opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Lake Tarawera to the fullest. We're excited to share that you can arrange for the Tarawera Water Taxi service, which offers a unique journey to the other side of the lake. Once there, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rejuvenating experience of bathing in the natural hot pools. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this option promises an unforgettable addition to your stay. When you make your reservation we will provide a link so that you can book this experience if desired.

If you're interested in learning more about the area's rich history, be sure to visit The Buried Village of Te Wairoa, which offers a glimpse into the volcanic eruption of 1886 and the local Tarawera history.

To relax and unwind, guests can visit the nearby Hell's Gate Geothermal Park and Mud Bath Spa or the Polynesian Spa for a rejuvenating beauty spa and massage. For adventure seekers, The Redwoods Treewalk, located just a 20-minute drive away, and White Water Rafting are great options. And don't forget to check out Te Puia, which features the famous Pohutu Geyser that spouts boiling water up to 30 metres into the air, as well as other natural geothermal wonders.

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Ponga Lodge are David and Angela who live at Lake Tarawera, along with their son, Ben, and dog, Spencer.

David and Angela first met in the UK in 1989 when Dave, a West Otago boy, was on his big O.E - and it was love at first sight! After marrying in 1990, they returned to New Zealand to work on the family farm in Otago. Eight years and two children later, career opportunities enticed them to the UK. They returned to New Zealand to Tarawera in 2017.

Captivated by the area's breathtaking lake and mountain views, lush green landscapes, and diverse wildlife - David and Angela decided to embark on visitor accommodation. In addition to Jack's Hut, they also created Ponga Lodge and The Woolshed to their collection of holiday homes.

TESTIMONIALS

“ A beautiful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the world. The weather wasnt the best for our stay but the hut was lovely and cosy and we had the most relaxing holiday with our four legged family member. Hosts and Spencer (the dog) are awesome. Would highly recommend to anyone planning a holiday. Perfect spot. ”

Paula Ward- 2026-01-05

20 / 20

“ Great location with views of the lake and amazing setup with the hot tub and projector. ”

Ryan- 2026-09-17

1 / 20

“ What an amazing little getaway! We love love loved the outside bath with projector screen, and just being able to unwind in such a quiet, relaxed setting by the lake with beautiful animals to feed and interact with was amazing! We also found the host so welcoming, and it was amazing to have somewhere for our dog to come along with us and enjoy the stay. Would 10/10 recommend staying here to unwind and enjoy! ”

Fleur and Rob- 2026-09-09

2 / 20

“ Peaceful, beautiful location. Jack’s Hut had everything we needed for a quiet getaway. ”

Chrissie- 2026-08-31

3 / 20

“ The outdoor bath and movie setup is amazing on a moonlit night!! ”

Claudine&Col- 2026-08-28

4 / 20

“ Such a wonderful stay, everything was so amazing! From the outdoor shower with a view to die for, to the baby reindeer in the paddock below, and to top it off, a relaxing spa with bubbles!! Honestly, I didn't want to leave, 100% would stay here again and would recommend it to anyone wanting an escape. ”

Mitchell Bowles- 2026-08-04

5 / 20

“ Awesome weekend away. Very relaxing. All you need but with an off grid feel and your own space. Great vibes all round. ”

Hayden Goodwin- 2026-07-27

6 / 20

“ The hosts were really helpful and lovely to speak to, and offered some great packages. ”

Lara Hooper- 2026-07-13

7 / 20

“ It was nice, relaxing and quiet. ”

Sarah Barfuss- 2026-07-11

8 / 20

“ Unreal experience, everything was as advertised and went smoothly. I would love to go back one day, thanks guys. ”

Jaiden Ball- 2026-07-03

9 / 20

“ I had a really good time at Jacks Hut. The cleanliness was excellent and I really liked the attention to detail in the decor, it really added to the ambience. ”

Lucy Huang- 2026-06-28

10 / 20

“ Peaceful spot amongst the trees overlooking the lake. Perfect getaway! ”

Bevan O’Connor- 2026-06-08

11 / 20

“ There were so many thoughtful little touches and everything was just perfect! The best getaway to enjoy the simple pleasures. ”

Jennifer Tseng- 2026-06-06

12 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Jacks Hut, came away feeling very relaxed. Just what the doctor ordered. ”

Karen Angland- 2026-04-07

13 / 20

“ A cosy, private and indulgent get away to recharge. Loved the outdoor bath and cinema felt completely decadent and a great way to wind down the evening. Highly recommend this gorgeous little hut. ”

Alexandra Asman- 2026-03-10

14 / 20

“ Jacks Hut was a fantastic getaway for a long weekend. We were able to relax, enjoy the view, walk to the lake for swims, and best of all, have our dogs with us. Angela and Dave communicated with us before, during, and prior to leaving, and were super easy to work with for any of our requirements during our stay. Highly recommended, and yes, it’s even better than it seems on the website! ”

Kiri Ohlson- 2026-02-12

15 / 20

“ The hut is in a lovely setting, just a short distance from the lake, nice walks, and the water taxi, with the herd of deer as your nearest neighbours. A peaceful place to relax. ”

Steve Fanning- 2026-02-03

16 / 20

“ Such a lovely setting and a neat experience to stay at Jacks Hut. Loved it! ”

Catherine McLean- 2026-02-01

17 / 20

“ Super nice stay. Very private. The hot tub was good after long hiking days. Thanks again! ”

Jeffrey Poirier- 2026-01-22

18 / 20

“ Great stay, awesome views from the hut to Lake Tarawera. ”

Sharon Hendry- 2026-01-15

19 / 20

Paula Ward- 2026-01-05

20 / 20

“ Great location with views of the lake and amazing setup with the hot tub and projector. ”

Ryan- 2026-09-17

1 / 20

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Jack's Hut

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Jack's Hut

EATING AND DRINKING

THINGS TO DO

YOUR HOSTS

TESTIMONIALS

BROWSE OUR COLLECTION