What time is check-in and check-out at The Black Shack?

Self check-in with a lockbox is available after 3:00 PM. Checkout is before 10:00 AM.

How many guests can The Black Shack sleep?

The Black Shack sleeps up to 6 guests across 3 queen bedrooms, two in the main house and one in a separate sleep-out.

Are pets allowed at The Black Shack?

Yes, pets are welcome at The Black Shack.

Is The Black Shack right on Lake Hawea?

Yes, The Black Shack sits at Johns Creek, only steps from the Lake Hawea shoreline, with the Gladstone Track starting right at the lakefront.

How do I book The Black Shack?

Bookings are made directly through Airbnb or Holiday Houses, where current rates and availability are shown.

Lake Hawea, Otago, New Zealand

Absolute lakefront.
Absolute bliss.

Book now Explore the cottage

Guests

Bedrooms

Bathroom

4.8

Guest rating

180+

Stays

It's an older property that makes lake views affordable, a rustic, unpretentious bach for people who'd rather sit by the fire than fuss over finishes.

A hidden haven at the edge of Lake Hawea. A classic kiwi bach nestled among native trees, with world class mountain and lake views right outside the door.

The main house holds two cozy bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen and living area with a fireplace, books, board games, Sky TV and Netflix. A third bedroom sits in a separate sleep-out. Outside: a rustic gas-heated spa, a BBQ, and space to sit and watch the light change on the water.

The cottage

Three bedrooms, one unbeatable view

Bedroom 01

Main house, queen bed

Room-darkening shades and extra bedding, in the main house alongside the living area. Wake up to the same Lake Hawea view every morning of your stay.

Bedroom 02

Main house, queen bed

Second cozy room in the main house, steps from the fireplace and kitchen. A quiet corner of this classic kiwi bach, ideal for couples or solo travellers.

Bedroom 03

The sleep-out, queen bed

A separate sleep-out building for extra privacy, ideal for guests travelling together. One of the reasons this Lake Hawea holiday house works so well for families and groups.

The cottage has one bathroom, shared across all three bedrooms.

What's here

Everything a bach should have, nothing it shouldn't

Fireplace

Wood-fed, main living area

Outdoor spa

Rustic, gas-heated

Pet friendly

Bring the dog along

Free WiFi

Plus Sky TV and Netflix

Full kitchen

Oven, fridge, freezer

BBQ area

Outdoor dining, lake view

Sky TV

Plus stereo and Netflix

Linen provided

Towels, sheets, pillows

Discover the full cottage

As a classic kiwi bach, this is an older property in rural New Zealand. If insects aren't your thing, this might not be the spot for you, and there's a chance of the odd mouse if food is left out. A tidy kiwi keeps it that way.

A first look

The lake is right outside every window

View the full gallery

Where you'll be

Johns Creek, Lake Hawea

0 min

Lake Hawea shoreline

Steps from the door, swimming, boating, and the Gladstone Track starts right at the lakefront
10 min

Lake Hawea township

Cafes, general store, and the boat marina
20 min

Wanaka

Restaurants, shops, and Lake Wanaka
50 min

Queenstown

Airport and the wider Queenstown-Lakes district

Johns Creek, Lake Hawea, Otago, New Zealand

Guest reviews

What guests say about their stay

Ratings as of Aug 2026, updated periodically from Airbnb and Holiday Houses

Airbnb 4.61 ★★★★★ 151 reviews

Holiday Houses 5.0 ★★★★★ 29 reviews

"The house was a lovely getaway spot for our family's birthdays. Thank you so much, they thoroughly enjoyed staying at The Black Shack."

Anonymous reviewMay 2026 · Holiday Houses

"Absolute favourite place I have stayed in NZ. Everything about this place was amazing and truly exceeded all expectations. Waking up to that view would never get old!"

TaylaMarch 2026 · Holiday Houses

"A charming family bach in a great location right on the lake."

MaraMarch 2026 · Holiday Houses

"We had a wonderful stay. It was perfect for us. Perfect location, peace and quiet, views were perfect. The hosts are so nice and helpful. We would definitely stay again."

JulieFebruary 2026 · Airbnb

"Wow! We picked this place hoping it would be a secluded spot to enjoy the lake and nature and it did not disappoint. If you love charm, coziness and don't mind being close to nature, this is perfect."

NathalieMarch 2026 · Airbnb

"Like your grandad's bach by the lake. Basic but adequate. Amazing, peaceful setting. Loved it here!"

IzakJanuary 2026 · Airbnb

"Just stay here, don't overcomplicate things. The grandness of the lake and surrounding mountains is not captured in the photos. The shoreline is about 1 min walk and the house looks directly over the lake."

Travis, New YorkDecember 2025 · Airbnb

"Superb location and the cabin had a fabulous simple rustic appeal. We stayed for 5 nights, for which my only negative observation would be that there was insufficient clothes storage space."

RayDecember 2025 · Airbnb

"This is an idyllic, secluded oasis on Lake Hawea. It's incredibly rustic and private as well as quaint and quiet, while still being only about 20 minutes from the bustle of Wanaka. Highly recommend!"

Courtney, New JerseyDecember 2025 · Airbnb

"Most fabulous location on the lake, had a very restful few days. As mentioned in the description it is basic, bring all groceries you need, matches, tea, coffee etc."

Sue HenryOctober 2025 · Holiday Houses

"Nestled on the edge of Lake Hawea surrounded by native bush and the most stunning backdrop. The history to this bach is apparent, black and white family photos on the walls telling the story of many who have loved this place."

Tammi MartinJuly 2025 · Holiday Houses

"The bach has a relaxed and easy going vibe. The location and views are spectacular, Lake Hawea is amazing for a swim and the kayak was great for a paddle around the lake."

JudithJanuary 2025 · Airbnb

"We really enjoyed our weeklong stay. The shack had so much character, had everything we needed and was very comfortable. Greatly appreciated being able to enjoy this special place with our canine family member too."

Candace BobierMarch 2025 · Holiday Houses

Good to know

Before you book

Check-in and out

Self check-in with a lockbox after 3:00 PM. Checkout before 10:00 AM.

House rules

6 guests maximum. Pets are welcome. No parties or events, and no smoking.

An older, rural property

This is a classic kiwi bach, not a new build. Expect insects from time to time, and please keep food put away to avoid mice.

Extra fees

Linen and cleaning fees apply on top of the nightly rate. Exact pricing and dates are shown on Airbnb and Holiday Houses.

Book your stay

Booking is quick, direct, and secure through our partners.

Book on Airbnb Book on Holiday Houses

Absolute lakefront.Absolute bliss.

Three bedrooms, one unbeatable view

Main house, queen bed

Main house, queen bed

The sleep-out, queen bed

Everything a bach should have, nothing it shouldn't

Fireplace

Outdoor spa

Pet friendly

Free WiFi

Full kitchen

BBQ area

Sky TV

Linen provided

The lake is right outside every window

Johns Creek, Lake Hawea

What guests say about their stay

Before you book

Check-in and out

House rules

An older, rural property

Extra fees

Booking is quick, direct, and secure through our partners.

Absolute lakefront.
Absolute bliss.