State Highway 35, Te Kaha, Whanarua Bay Tel (07) 325 2648 Websitewww.maraehako.co.nz
BUG review
The Maraehako Bay Retreat bills itself as “absolute sea front accommodation”, and it’s no exaggeration. If you were any closer to the bay, you’d be underwater. The setting here is absolutely stunning, a secluded paradise hidden among craggy rocks and cliffs and giant pohutukawa trees. The hostel itself is a quirky, owner-built wooden house with tons of idiosyncratic charm; it slopes and slants over multiple levels with lots of decks, and is decorated with nautical flourishes like heavy rigging, fishing nets, and driftwood. The whole place almost doesn’t seem real. Accommodation is basic but clean and there are good facilities like an outdoor spa pool with a view, hammocks, a barbecue and free use of kayaks and boogie boards. The Maraehako Bay Retreat simply has to rank as one of the most beautiful locations on the North Island.
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Price Dorm bed $28 ($25 BBH) Double/twin room $66 ($60 BBH) Prices are in New Zealand dollars and are inclusive of all taxes.
Serge Zollinger
(zollag@clear.net.nz)
from a Swiss living in Auckland NZ
a Swiss living in Auckland NZ
a little paradise at the nicest spot of the east coast 9 June 2003
Pros:
n/a
Cons:
n/a
Serge Zollinger
saw things this way
Maintenance
(4)
Cleanliness
(4)
Facilities
(4)
Atmosphere
(4)
(Review ID: 12490)
Pihi is your host, his sister Puna helps him too, and his son Hamai might also be around. They all look after you in a most natural and friendly way. Catch a fish with Pihi during the day and grill it over the camp fire evenings. Horse rides or canoe trips are other options. The bay is beautifull, and the walk to the water fall most recommended.Best backpackers accommodation on highway 35 ! Enjoy and stay a few days...it doesn't get much better than that.
