3.6m x 2.4m
4.8m x 2.4m
6.0m x 2.4m
7.2m x 2.7m
Short term cabin rentals in NZ typically mean a 3-month minimum hire of a fully-built, transportable cabin delivered to your site. It's a flexible alternative to committing to a permanent build or a standard residential lease. Lakes Cabin Rentals has supplied quality, transportable rental cabins across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions since 2010, and this guide covers exactly how it works, what "short term" really means, and whether it's the right fit for your situation.
Worth being upfront about this: our rental cabins have a minimum rental period of 3 months. That's genuinely short term compared to building a sleepout or granny flat, which is permanent, or signing a standard residential lease, but it's not a weekly or fortnightly rental. If you need something for just a few weeks, a portable cabin isn't the right fit. But if your timeframe is a few months to a few years, whether you're renovating, waiting on a new build, or needing temporary staff or family accommodation, this is exactly the flexible middle ground it's built for. Terms are available at 3, 6, and 12 months, with the weekly rate dropping the longer you commit.
Our cabins arrive fully built and ready to use. A specialised delivery vehicle transports the cabin to your site, so you'll need clear access of at least 3.9m in width and 3.6m in height for the truck to get in. Because the cabin remains on its trailer chassis throughout the rental, and the tow bar can be retracted or removed once it's in position, there's generally no foundation work involved.
For most sites, building consent isn't required, since the cabins are treated as temporary structures, similar to caravans. That said, resource consent may apply if you're positioning the cabin close to a boundary. We recommend keeping at least 3m from the boundary line, and checking with your local council if you need to go closer. You'll also need a flat or near-level site with 3.5m of clear space around the cabin for delivery and setup.
Power is straightforward too. Each cabin comes with a lead that plugs into a standard 3-pin power point, giving a 10-amp supply, with 16-amp possible via a caravan connection.
Our rental cabins in Waikato and beyond are used for far more than just sleepouts. Common uses include home offices and portable offices, guest rooms and granny flats, Airbnb and tourist accommodation, farm accommodation, site or sales offices during a build, and storage, studios, or rumpus rooms.
Choosing a rental cabin comes down to how much space you need and how long you'll need it for. Our four cabin sizes, from the compact Tikitapu Sleepout through to the larger Taupō Cabin with its own kitchenette and ensuite, cover everything from a simple extra room to fully self-contained temporary accommodation. Get in touch and our team can talk you through site requirements and what fits your timeframe, or head straight to our application form if you're ready to move forward.
What is the minimum rental period for a cabin?
The minimum rental period is 3 months for all our cabins, with 6 and 12-month terms also available at a lower weekly rate.
Do I need building consent to place a cabin on my property?
Generally, no. Our cabins are considered temporary structures, similar to caravans. Resource consent may be required if the cabin is positioned too close to a boundary, so check with your local council for specific rules.
How close to my boundary can the cabin be placed?
We recommend at least 3m from the boundary. Placing it closer may require permission from neighbours or your local council.
How is the cabin delivered and powered once on site?
The cabin is delivered by our professional team using a specialised vehicle, requiring 3.9m width and 3.6m height clearance, and it remains on its trailer chassis throughout the rental. Power runs through a standard 3-pin connection, providing a 10-amp supply.
Are pets or smoking allowed in the cabins?
No, pets are not permitted inside the cabins, and smoking is strictly prohibited. Additional cleaning charges may apply if odours or damage are detected.