In dec 2012, my family stayed 2 nights at Cottage Mews in the Garden Studio. The room looks new and clean and country feel. And the queen and single bed was great for 3 of us except the bed was a little soft. The bonus is that there is a jacuzzi in the room and my daughter (6 years old) loved it! The backyard mini garden was also a plus except that in the evening there are flies. The kitchen was sufficient for cooking but a little tight. Finally Lake Taupo is just a few minutes walk to the back of the motel! Ducks walk right up to your feet.... In summary excellent value but I hope Julie gives me the 10% room rate discount when i go back to Taupo one day... :+))

We stayed for one night in 'The Nook' on Dec 15th 2012. Im a self-confessed clean freak and this place easily lived up to my expectations, which Im told are pretty high at times. The owner/staff are friendly, helpful and just good people. Its a true home away from home experience with nice little touches throughout. We found being able to access the lake front from the property a real bonus, your only about 20 steps to the lake. We'll be back the next time we're in Taupo, its a no-brainer to stay here. Oh and you get 10% off the next time you stay - nice touch that they dont need to do but they do anyway !

We were just overnighting in taupo on our way south we come threw taupo quite regularly and are yet to find a good hotel ie that is clean and value for money . But my wife and I believe the cottage mews is the place for us .The lack of lake views did not worry us the cleanliness of our room(the nook ) and the friendly service we received from all staff was magnificent . And in 2012 good customer service is hard to find . The staff could not do enough for us to make us feel welcome . Yes it is a bit of way from the downtown bars restaurants but cabs are cheap and the motel plans to start renting bikes soon .
The Nook was very nice similar to say a b b room little kitchenette it was Cosy the sink was a little hard to wash your face in but all fittings were modern and of good quality, lovely shower . Will be back next time in taupo

As can be gathered from previous reviews the Cottage Mews is old, but slowly being refurbished. Having said that we were very pleased with our accomodation. It had a small patio, bedroom downstairs with double spa bath, and upstairs a sitting room/dining area with lake views. The staff we met were all very friendly. It's a longish walk into the centre of Taupo - better to drive if there's any chance of rain. Out of season the motel operates a single price policy and allocates the best rooms first so it makes sense to book early if you can. We found the price fair value for what we got.