Entire home

Idyllic river side retreat

Photo gallery for Idyllic river side retreat

River Retreat in its bush setting
gardens
gardens
outdoor table and chairs
view from above
Reviews
10

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 3

Popular amenities

  • Fireplace
    FireplaceFireplace
  • Kitchen
    KitchenKitchen
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Free WiFi
    Free WiFiFree WiFi
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor spaceOutdoor space
  • Washer
    WasherWasher

Explore the area

Map
Parapara, Takaka
  • Popular LocationParapara Beach6 min drive
  • Popular LocationMilnthorpe Park7 min drive
  • Popular LocationGolden Bay12 min drive
  • AirportTakaka (KTF)13 min drive

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

attic bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Idyllic river side retreat

The cottage is warm and well appointed, built in uncut river stone to high specs
The dwelling is private and quiet, with no other houses in sight, and is set in it's own large garden area
Insect screens allow the sliding windows to be open on hot nights without moths , mosquitos etc swarming in
Bird life abounds, and the unspoiled ParaPara river ,glimpsed through the trees is 20 steps away.Old gold workings from the 19th century are still visible, and the track up the river follows the water race that provided power for the historic paint factory working in the early days of the colony.There is a network of tracks developed by the host's partner over the last 9 years
5 minutes from marvellous Milnthorpe Park with its bush walks and beach, 10 minutes from the town of Collingwood, and further afield spectacular Wharariki beach and the Westhaven inlet
Or if you're in the mood for perusing arts and crafts, many artisan galleries are nearby, potters, jewellers and glass workers
For a fee of $30.00 I will provide a fire bath for you, good for relaxation and star gazing ! from May to October .Outside of that time we don't light outdoor fires.


In winter months from June to August the sun sets early in the valley
There is a good efficient fire, plenty of dry wood and a heater,and with double glazing the cottage is really cosy.
Special conditions:
Most suitable for couples, but a day bed in the living room can also be used for another person

Smoking outside only
No tents
quiet enjoyment (no parties or loud music)
.
Extras: Cleaning (included); Linen (included);

Property manager

Reen_Mcmillan
Premier Host
Premier Host

Languages

English

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Barbecue grill
Water view

House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking permitted outside

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Parapara

Located in Parapara, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Collingwood Museum and Golden Bay Museum & Gallery are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Te Anaroa Caves and Rawhiti Cave. Windsurfing and sailing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and cycling nearby.
Map
Parapara, Takaka

What's nearby

  • Parapara Beach - 6 min drive
  • Tukurua Bay - 6 min drive
  • Milnthorpe Park - 7 min drive
  • Golden Bay - 12 min drive
  • Te Anaroa Caves - 19 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Mussel Inn - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪The Naked Possum - ‬30 min drive
  • ‪Collingwood Tavern - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Mad Cafe - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Mussel Inn Bush Cafe - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Idyllic river side retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Idyllic river side retreat?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Idyllic river side retreat?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Idyllic river side retreat located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is 1 mi (1.7 km) from Kahurangi National Park and within 3 miles (5 km) of Parapara Beach and Tukurua Bay. Milnthorpe Park is 3 mi (4.8 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 163 out of 165 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 165 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 165 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 165 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 165 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Vicki H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
Really nice Bach in lovely area
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jenna N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A wonderful escape
My partner and I had such a relaxing time at this property. We reflected on our way home to Christchurch, that if we had to be stuck anywhere for three nights due to crappy weather - this would be the place! The photos don't do the lush green environment justice, the views of the bush out every window were sensational. Because of the heavy rain, the river alongside the property was flowing at a fast rate and it was wonderful to listen to. We loved the fireplace, too! The cottage was very well equipped and we could not fault it. Thanks for having us, Maureen. Apologies we couldn't message you when we checked out early on the morning of our departure. Both our phones drowned in the sea doing the Abel Tasman beforehand, and the times we were able to message you, we did so from the library at Takaka! PS. Thanks for the lemons - bonus!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Janelle P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful Retreat
What a beautiful cottage. The gardens and river are spectacular and don't miss the fire bath if you get a chance. Very spacious cottage with everything you need for a couple of nights, or a month. We will be back when we return to NZ.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

sharon b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Superb retreat
Great place to stay to relax & recharge. Cute house beautifully furnished surrounded with nature & silence (apart from birds & river)

10/10 Excellent

Ian F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Perfect Spot
The cottage met all our expectations and more! Clean, comfortable and equipped with all the basics that you need. Great to know Reen was available if needed but nice to have such a private spot with a beautiful garden and with a river and tracks on your doorstep. Location for all the other scenic spots and activities was another highlight. One of our best holidays!!
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

remmelt d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice
Best place what we have in New Sealand only the chairs in the living room sit not so good but perhaps for other people they sit ok
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Armin S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic stay
Fantastic stay in a cosy cottage in the bush near the river with a beautiful garden. We can highly recommend!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nathalie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolument magnifique !
Un chalet extraordinaire dans un superbe environnement ! On a vraiment adoré et on ne voulait plus partir...
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Larrissa S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Little peice of paradise
Absolutely loved our stay! We will be back 💕
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chris d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful getaway
We had a great and relaxing time at this beautiful and cozy little bach. The location is great and the hosts are friendly.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Richard J., Ohariu - Wellington

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just delightful
Just what we wanted. Better than imagined.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sheehy G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Parapara
Ideal location to explore Golden bay
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Peter and henny V., Christchurch

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Second time we stayed here and just like the first time it was amazing. Great batch ,great hosts.
Amazing!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful & Private
Great property, had everything we needed. Very peaceful, nice place to relax. Would stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Alan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cottage Parapara
We enjoyed 2 weeks in this special place. Such a joy. Perfect private location, words can’t describe how beautiful it is. Fabulous accommodation with everything you need. Maureen is an excellent host. This feels like our second home and we were so sad to move on. Could not recommend it highly enough and we look forward to the next time
Stayed 13 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Richard C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just great
Ideal place to unwind relax and just listen to the bird song, the river, the cottage has everything you need, just bring along the food for the BBQ, GnT, and a few bottles of wine and relax. Hope to return when we next visit NZ from U.K.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

janeen m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Paradise found!
Delightful stone cottage in a secluded bush setting. Most amazing place, absolutely loved our time here. Two nights was not enough.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mike & Lisa A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome cottage stay.
Fantastic place to stay, very private and quiet. The cottage was excellent, with everything you need, lovely garden around the cottage and awesome bush walks starting behind the cottage. We loved our stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cathie V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Holiday
Amazing, secluded location. Very comfortable holiday house.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Helen M., Blenheim NZ

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing peaceful retreat
A home from home in a great setting and with a beautifully kept garden. Equipped with everything you needed. Great tracks to explore behind the cottage. Amazing dawn chorus. Convenient for getting to takaka or over to Collingwood nad the west coast.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bruce H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
just beautiful
Idyllic. Thanks so much
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

John C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent 5star +
Frankly, we didn’t want to leave. Absolutely excellent in every possible respect. 10/10
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Harriet C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Comfy retreat in nature
Beautifully designed riverside property. Has everything you need including a washing machine and full kitchen. Cosy lounge with fireplace. Can go for stunning bushwalk starting on a private track at the back of the property. Close to stunning beaches/walks. Highly recommend. Perfect honeymoon spot.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kat F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderdul getaway
My family had a fantastic weekend staying at the cottage. Had a weekend of cold weather so the open fire was perfect and still got to enjoy many of the walking tracks through the beautiful bush.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

John B., Auckland, New Zealand

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What everyone said below is 100% right.
The house is beautifully made. There is attention to detail in design and execution in every aspect. For example, the stones for the outer walls were carefully collected from rivers around here over time and chosen for their natural flat faces. No hand shaping. The fire is a dream and there is endless wood - a lot of manuka. Comfy bed and day bed. Big windows. Soft water in the shower (you don’t know what ‘soft water’ means until you have lathered up in a shower like this one), and buckets of it. Smooth kitchen to work in. All appliances are quality, in top condition. This lovely house is located in a perfect, simple garden in the bush. It is in a big opening that lets sun flood into the house until later in the afternoon. Reen clearly spends a lot of time ‘editing’ the whiteywoood and other vigorous forest denizens from encroaching, from monstering the rengarenga lillies, grass and the verandah. The result is an artwork that you get to live in. There is a reason why this property gets a straight 5 out of 5 from everyone who stays here, and this is mine.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Reen_Mcmillan

Host profile image
I have lived in the Bay since 1973, brought up 4 children.Now two of them have come back from overseas to raise their families here.
I love Golden Bay for its history, its geographic diversity and beauty, and thriving community

Why they chose this property

We bought this property in 1973 because it ticked all the boxes, bush, river etc, but also had an air of mystery about it.There was evidence of old mining huts, church music sheets scattered on the floor of one of the huts along with flesh coloured corsets and black clunky heeled shoes , prevalent in the 1930's
Bit by bit we pieced together the history, and added our own

What makes this property unique

the feel of a hidden world, yet only 20 minutes from Takaka

Languages:

English

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Premier Host
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