Stay · 4 places
From a 1960s bach lovingly maintained, to three farm cottages with a wood-fired hot tub, to the unfussy council holiday park where the tents go. Different shapes for different weekends.
Three-bedroom 1960s bach overlooking the Heads — sleeps six, walking distance to everywhere.
Two-night minimum
“The owner leaves a fresh dozen eggs from her chickens on the bench for first-night guests.”— local tip
Three boutique cottages on a working farm, with the wood-fired hot tub.
Two-night minimum, three on long weekends
“They lend out e-bikes — the ride to the Heads is twenty minutes downhill, an hour back.”— local tip
Council-managed campground, beach access, basic amenities, fair prices.
Year-round; book ahead in summer
“The cabins are basic but the powered van sites at the back have the best evening light.”— local tip
Eight-suite lodge near Te Arai forest — bush walks out the back door.
All-year, two-night minimum
“The kororā (little blue penguins) come up the dunes around dusk. Worth a 9pm walk.”— local tip