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Parkbrae Estate
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About
#2 of 2 ranches in Lake Tekapo
Location
Rooms
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Parkbrae Estate is so much more than a stay... it is an experience! Preferred by so many due to its unique style cottages and units (apartments), peaceful surroundings and privileged location! No doubt the spot in Tekapo! Only a stone's throw away from the stunning turquoise lake and a few steps from the Church of Good Shepherd and Collie Dog Statue, Tekapo's best known icons!! When at Parkbrae Estate, wake up to breathtaking scenery or warm up by the fire on a cold winter night... stroll through the gardens with camera in hand soaking up the morning light... sit on the balcony with a book or a glass of the finest NZ wine...wait until the stars come out in the mesmerizing night sky and make a wish... or two... Perfect for romantic getaways, family holidays, weddings, gatherings or just an excuse to treat yourself!!
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Wifi
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Room features
Kitchenette
Refrigerator
Flatscreen TV
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Hidden Gem
Luxury
Location
Sealy Street, Lake Tekapo 7945 New Zealand
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 74 out of 100
74
14 Restaurants
within 0.5 kilometers
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We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
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Detailed Reviews
If you have to stay in Lake Tekapo, look no further! Most of the units are facing the lake (just across a tiny street from the touristy dog statue and Church of Good Shepherd) but we had the good fortune to stay in Mary Mac.
There was a slight hiccup with the water pressure in the bathroom, which the owner promptly turned up to fix.
There are many good things to say about this place. If you appreciate a good quaint cottage like feel, this place is for you. It even comes with a fireplace which I greedily indulge in. I wish there were more firewood even though I had 3 hours of fiery fun.
It also comes with a full kitchen (head to Foursquare in Village Centre for groceries) and two dining table options - one in the kitchen (which we moved into the living space, right in front of the fireplace) and the other in the veranda (which... was unfortunately too cold in winter, even with the 2 heaters we brought in).
The 2 bedrooms had were wonderfully facing the lake (which, admittedly, can be creepy if the place was a lot more crowded with human traffic) with electric blankets to keep you toasty.
This was the rare place with good wifi (good speed and connection).
Also, if you're in luck, there's an apple tree on the adjacent compound (which also belongs to the same owner). Free fruit.
The view is certainly the best thing. Just wake up early, or just sit there and watch the darkness claim the waters. Either way, Mary Macs command the best view.
There was a slight hiccup with the water pressure in the bathroom, which the owner promptly turned up to fix.
There are many good things to say about this place. If you appreciate a good quaint cottage like feel, this place is for you. It even comes with a fireplace which I greedily indulge in. I wish there were more firewood even though I had 3 hours of fiery fun.
It also comes with a full kitchen (head to Foursquare in Village Centre for groceries) and two dining table options - one in the kitchen (which we moved into the living space, right in front of the fireplace) and the other in the veranda (which... was unfortunately too cold in winter, even with the 2 heaters we brought in).
The 2 bedrooms had were wonderfully facing the lake (which, admittedly, can be creepy if the place was a lot more crowded with human traffic) with electric blankets to keep you toasty.
This was the rare place with good wifi (good speed and connection).
Also, if you're in luck, there's an apple tree on the adjacent compound (which also belongs to the same owner). Free fruit.
The view is certainly the best thing. Just wake up early, or just sit there and watch the darkness claim the waters. Either way, Mary Macs command the best view.
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Date of stay: May 2017Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Choose Mary Mac!!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wanting to stay in Lake Tekapo but with no prior booking we started to look around at what was on offer. We luckily stumbled over Parkbrae Estate when we arrived, late in the afternoon. The owner invited us to have a look at two available houses on the estate and we instantly fell in love with the first one. It's a very old little cottage, nestled in beautiful gardens with a fire place (all ready for us to light), four large bedrooms, two bathrooms and a full kitchen. The windows along the front of the cottage were all picture windows overlooking Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd. We walked over to have a look at the church, could walk easily into town for a meal or shopping and took a drive up to Mt John where we found the observatory and it's fantastic little cafe. It was a truly memorable day's driving and overnight stay.
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Date of stay: October 2012Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: The Garden Cottage is so quaint and pretty with the most spectacular view!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Patricia B, Manager at Parkbrae Estate
Responded 3 Nov 2012
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such lovely comments about our property. Parkbrae Estate and Garden Cottage are truly special! Graeme and Carolyn Murray have devoted over 20 years to landscaping this stunning garden and choosing all the interesting and quaint items in each house. Thus making each stay unique! We are delighted you have enjoyed your time with us and do hope you can return. Until then, all the best! Patricia Baptista
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We had 2 nights enjoying the comforts of this lovely house. It's 3 spacious bedrooms and lounge look out into native bush but still get plenty of sun. Two generous bathrooms meant no hold ups when getting ready to go out in the mornings. The well appointed kitchen made self catering easy. Located a minute from the lake front made a 6.30am walk to watch the sun rise and paint the landscape with its warm glow one of our many special memories of Takapo.
The weather was perfect for the 3 days we were there. Our decision to drive up Mt John for an early morning coffee before we left was rewarded with the best coffee, scones and muffins we have had for a long time and as for the view - it is breathtaking. The glistening top of MT Cook could be seen above the Southern Alps with Lakes Tekapo and Alexandrina sparkling at their base. There was not a breath of wind so the silence was exquisite.
We will come again.
The weather was perfect for the 3 days we were there. Our decision to drive up Mt John for an early morning coffee before we left was rewarded with the best coffee, scones and muffins we have had for a long time and as for the view - it is breathtaking. The glistening top of MT Cook could be seen above the Southern Alps with Lakes Tekapo and Alexandrina sparkling at their base. There was not a breath of wind so the silence was exquisite.
We will come again.
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Date of stay: February 2012Trip type: Travelled with friends
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Bush House is perfect for family groups or friends. Plenty of car parking.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Patricia B, Manager at Parkbrae Estate
Responded 23 Feb 2012
Dear Adrienne, Thank you so much for your lovely comments! It always means so much to us to hear how much all of you enjoyed Parkbrae Estate. We were delighted to have you and your family stay with us and we are positive you'll return to our little paradise by the Lake! All the best, Patricia
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed in Garden Studio for our son's wedding recently. We were delighted with the location, could not fault it
The accomodation was very disappointing. We had occasion to look behind curtains when we lost something. There was thick dust everywhere, even along the side of the TV stand.
The furnishings, decorations and equipment are old fashioned.
We did not find the plastic black rat on the outside table funny either.
I feel that the owners are taking advantage of the location and could do with spending money on upgrading it and employing good cleaners.
We have stayed in a variety of places in both South and North Island during our four week visit and can honestly say that this was the worst.
The accomodation was very disappointing. We had occasion to look behind curtains when we lost something. There was thick dust everywhere, even along the side of the TV stand.
The furnishings, decorations and equipment are old fashioned.
We did not find the plastic black rat on the outside table funny either.
I feel that the owners are taking advantage of the location and could do with spending money on upgrading it and employing good cleaners.
We have stayed in a variety of places in both South and North Island during our four week visit and can honestly say that this was the worst.
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Date of stay: February 2016Trip type: Travelled with family
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We arrived in excitement to our booked night in the Garden cottage and whilst I was lighting the fire, my husband and kids spotted a rat or mouse on the kitchen bench. We promptly threw water on the fire, locked up and left. Management gave refund but no assistance given to find accommodation. Would not recommend or book again. Very very disappointing.
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Date of stay: April 2015Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We arrived for a 2pm check in at the opera house on the Park Brae estate after doing lots of research (booking and paying 6 months in advance) and want to stay in this house for the view. We were greeted by Patricia (the host) who said the house had a terrible smell and was uninhabitable. She offered us alternative accommodation at the "doctors retreat" however it wasn't clean yet and could we go for a walk and she would text when it was ready. On our walk we could see other people in the opera house, Patricia had clearly double booked the accommodation and blatantly lied to us about the smell. The alternative accommodation not only was not ready it was on the road and had no view. We approached Patricia and she was embarrassed that she had been caught out lying. Patricia then arranged for us to stay at an alternative accommodation at the accompanying "chalet" resort.
I would not recommend staying at Part Brae to anyone, Patiricia is an opportunist and does not look after the guests.
I would not recommend staying at Part Brae to anyone, Patiricia is an opportunist and does not look after the guests.
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Date of stay: January 2015Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Patricia B, Manager at Parkbrae Estate
Responded 2 Feb 2015
Thank you so much for taking the time to write your review. I was very saddened to read such a review and really took it to heart... I did apologize for the state of the property and offering Doctor's Retreat was an upgrade as it is more expensive. When your expectations weren't met I secured yet another property with a stunning view and complimentary bottle of wine. I completely understand how disappointing it might be when you had planned your holiday in advance but I believe I did everything in my power to accommodate you both best way possible. I do hope you had a lovely holiday still even if quite hurt by your comments. Kind regards, Patricia Baptista
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed in the garden tower, The view was good, the intirior of our room was terrible, not clean, the bed was very bad, and the kitchen utensils were poor. Bad wifi. The manager was very kind and helpfull but it`s a pity this is the only positive thing we can say about Park Brae Estate.
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Date of stay: February 2015Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Patricia B, Manager at Parkbrae Estate
Responded 1 Mar 2015
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review. I am really sorry to hear you didn't find your stay in the Garden Tower satisfying... especially that you found the interior horrible... I can understand taste is unique to everyone but we have only heard positive things and the Tower is very popular within our booking system. We do apologize for the WIFI as it can be very slow... but Tekapo is getting busier and busier and some devices work better than others (as I have noticed). No doubt something for us to look into. We do hope that you still enjoyed your time in Tekapo and had a well deserved break! Best wishes, Patricia Baptista
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We Stayed in the Garden Studio unit 21-23Oct14. What a complete opposite to the 5 star lesser priced accommodation we had stayed in at Fairlie the previous day. This appartment was grossly overpriced. It could be described as sub-standard and compared to a 1970's basic camping ground cabin standard with the minimum of redeeming features except for the view of the Church of the Good Shepherd nearby. The "For Sale" sign in front of of the property should have been a clue to the fact that these premises were in fact of a leser standard than depicted on the promotion website.
Examples of the unacceptable standards included insufficient power points all of which had double socket plugs and wandering cables attached. This resulted in having to disconnect one appliance in order to utilse another, such as a jug/toaster combination.There was an absence of suitable cooking utensils together with a chipped cup. Blinds in the unit were broken and unserviceable despite repeated visitor comments. The lighting in the lounge-kitchen area was absurdly inadequate.The shower jet came out at 90 degrees to the wall when turned on, this situation was only partly resolved when adjusting the unit with my own tools. There was no space to place any toiletries or articles in the bathroom.
Safety-wise there was no fire extinguisher or evacuation plan displayed. A large sofa blocked the available exit to the patio. We were also unable to use the internet despite being told it was available!
All these matters and several others were brougth to the attention of the manager when checking out. Good points were few but included a good hot/cold water supply.
This type of accommodation has no place in the NZ tourism industry
Examples of the unacceptable standards included insufficient power points all of which had double socket plugs and wandering cables attached. This resulted in having to disconnect one appliance in order to utilse another, such as a jug/toaster combination.There was an absence of suitable cooking utensils together with a chipped cup. Blinds in the unit were broken and unserviceable despite repeated visitor comments. The lighting in the lounge-kitchen area was absurdly inadequate.The shower jet came out at 90 degrees to the wall when turned on, this situation was only partly resolved when adjusting the unit with my own tools. There was no space to place any toiletries or articles in the bathroom.
Safety-wise there was no fire extinguisher or evacuation plan displayed. A large sofa blocked the available exit to the patio. We were also unable to use the internet despite being told it was available!
All these matters and several others were brougth to the attention of the manager when checking out. Good points were few but included a good hot/cold water supply.
This type of accommodation has no place in the NZ tourism industry
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Date of stay: October 2014Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Don't bother with the Garden Studio-look elsewhere!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Patricia B, Manager at Parkbrae Estate
Responded 8 Dec 2014
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review and my sincere apologies for my late reply. I have been away and in all honesty it has taken me a while to digest your comments. We welcome all constructive criticism as it is the only way to improve our service. We encourage all our guests to assist us in improving the feel/comfort and facilities in all our properties and anytime there is the need for special attention. I remember well our discussion and I believe the next day I sent you an email outlining all our efforts to replace/improve the Garden Studio facilities. We do live in a small village where all trades are outsourced and therefore not easy to have the quick response we require. Blinds have been replaced; shower tightened; sofa moved; and your comments sent to the relevant cleaning company. All your points are valid as they pertain to your own individual experience and we are truly saddened by the fact you didn't enjoy your stay in our little piece of heaven. As a consequence you weren't able to enjoy our privilege location and wonderful/ unobstructed views as I see you marked us down on location too. We will certainly endeavor to keep improving our service and we hope that you still enjoyed your holiday whilst visiting our stunning Lake Tekapo. Best wishes, Patricia Baptista
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lovely little cottage, very comfortable and well equipped. It would be a nice place to stay, regardless of the position, but with the million dollar view of Lake Tekapo, it in a class of it's own.
I have already booked to go back.
I have already booked to go back.
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Date of stay: October 2011Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Patricia B, Manager at Parkbrae Estate
Responded 14 Nov 2011
Thank you so much for your lovely comments! And I have to say, you are quite the photographer!! Loved your photos! Thank you for posting them here and on our FB Page! Looking forward to welcoming you and your friends next year! Until then... All the best!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I have read the other reviews, & whether or not you like Parkbrae as much as we did depends on what you are looking for. If it's a 1 nighter on the way to Queenstown maybe it's just a motel style place you want. But after spending 3 weeks driving around the Sth Island staying in a variety of carefully selected accommodation, Garden Cottage is the place that won hands down. From outside it looks a bit old, but its thoughtfully renovated & decorated to capture a lovely chintzy country cottage feel. Nice modern ensuite to main bedroom. Rugs, paintings, photos, ornaments, old English china, & bookcase crammed with odd books add a nice touch. Good beds & linen, heaters in every room & electric blankets ensure no-one is cold. But loved the fireplace which added a real air of conviviality to the living room. One night & a morning spent basking in the sun that floods the front rooms all day (late Autumn) saw us abandoning plans to eat out & we cooked our own meals for the rest of our stay. True, the 2nd double bedroom can only be accessed from outside, & patio only from master bedroom. Also cooking utensils could no with a few extra things like wooden spoon, tongs, big serving spoon but in all kitchen was roomy & well equipped. A charming cottage, tastefully decorated with lovely garden and views, that really lends itself to city slickers like us spending a few days with family & friends. If you like something with a bit of character & charm, try it and I'm sure you'll love it as much as we did. Owners just next door & v helpful.
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Date of stay: May 2011Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: WM & dryer in shed outside near kitchen.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hello,do you have e mail for booking?thank you
Regret no accommodation available. Best wishes. Graeme. Parkbrae
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LOCATION
New ZealandSouth IslandCanterbury RegionMackenzie DistrictLake Tekapo
NUMBER OF ROOMS
15
Prices are provided by our partners for one room, with variable occupancy rules as provided by the property, and reflect total costs of the stay, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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Claim Your ListingPARKBRAE ESTATE | Ranch Reviews (Lake Tekapo, New Zealand) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Parkbrae Estate
Which popular attractions are close to Parkbrae Estate?
Nearby attractions include The Church of the Good Shepherd (0.08 km), Dark Sky Project (0.5 km), and Mackenzie Sheep Dog Statue (0.1 km).
Which room amenities are available at Parkbrae Estate?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, a flat screen TV, and a refrigerator.
What are some restaurants close to Parkbrae Estate?
Conveniently located restaurants include TLV Restaurant & Bar, Blue Lake Eatery & Bar, and The Greedy Cow Ltd.
Is Parkbrae Estate located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.2 km away from the centre of Lake Tekapo.
Are pets allowed at Parkbrae Estate?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Does Parkbrae Estate have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the lake view available here.