Cambridge • Waikato • New Zealand

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What Should I bring ?

• Cell Phone (point of contact if there any difficulties)
• Food
• Beverages
• Personal Toiletries
• Beach Towels
• Bath Towels
• Bedding/pillows (hire available)
• Camera, Binoculars
• Games, Cards
• Reading material
• Insect repellent
• Suntan Lotion, Hats
• Water toys
• Audio Tapes
• Fishing gear
• Fishing Licence available in Cambridge

Q Can anyone pilot a houseboat?

A "Kotare" is able to be skippered by anyone over the age of 21, and not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Q. Will we get a training session.

A. Yes, we give all our guests a training session. We will show you how to start and run the out boards, and the other technical aspects of the boat. If you would like we will go out onto the lake to give you a feel of the boat. When your happy and ready to go well leave you to it.

Q. Can we stock up with supplies.

A. We are situated 20 mins Sth of Cambridge (our main Shopping Centre), You will need to take all your supplies with you. There is however a café on the river that is open for lunches, just a 2 min walk up the hill.

We are able to refuel, and put on more water if required back at the jetty. You can contact us by ringing our mobile to arrange this. (025 6887720)

Q. Can we bring our boat or jet ski along?

A. Yes, you are welcome to tow additional craft behind the houseboat

Q. Does the boat have a sun deck?

A. Yes : the roof of the boat is a large area and is designed to carry max of 12 people at any one time

Q. : Where can we go on the Lake?

A. : There is a few "No Go areas", A comprehensive map is onboard Kotare, This shows you some lovely places to moor, and some shallow areas on the river to avoid. Lake Karapiro is part of the Waikato river Hydro stations, at the most southerly end of the Lake is Arapuni Dam, at the most Northerly point there is Karapiro Dam. 21 kms of Tranquillity in-between

Q. What is there to do and see?

A. There are 2 Kayaks available, if required at no charge. There are some idyllic streams entering the lake. In the evenings there are many glow worms to be seen. Its wonderful to swim, fish, visit the Hydro station, ski, sightseeing, and most importantly relax!

Q. What Fish are we able to catch?

A. The trout that are most frequently caught in Lake Karapiro are Brown and rainbow. However you will require a Trout fishing licence that can be purchased from any local sports shop.

Q. How can I book

A. See the booking

Info@houseboatescape.co.nz - 117 Finlay Park Rd, RD2, Cambridge, New Zealand, Phone 64 7 827-2195