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Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house

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View across Urquharts Bay to Mt Manaia.
An open plan living area and kitchen looks out to the Whangārei harbour.
Interior
View from property
Reviews
9.4

Exceptional

3 bedroomsSleeps 61 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Washer
    WasherWasher
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Kitchen
    KitchenKitchen
  • Fireplace
    FireplaceFireplace
  • Dryer
    DryerDryer
  • Free WiFi
    Free WiFiFree WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Urquharts Bay, Whangarei Heads
  • Popular LocationMount Manaia5 min drive
  • Popular LocationOcean Beach6 min drive
  • AirportWhangarei (WRE)28 min drive
  • Popular LocationRuakaka Beach61 min drive

Most relevant reviews

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Separate bathroom

Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house

This waterfront beach house is nestled in the centre of Urquharts Bay, a quiet haven on the Whangarei Harbour.
Located 33km from central Whangarei city, the property is unique because it offers such a diverse range of holiday options. If visitors just want to rest and relax, they can sit peacefully on the north-facing deck and watch the world go by. There is always something happening in the bay below or further up the harbour. From people going fishing and diving, windsurfers skimming across the waves, families swimming and people beachcombing. While the main shoreline of the beach is pebbley, and beach shoes are recommended, there are sandy beaches at each end. It is very safe and an ideal spot for youngsters to learn to kayak.
Boaties find Urquharts Bay easy for launching, with a concrete ramp that can be used in all tides (4x4 is recommended). Just a short boat ride from shore, you can catch your dinner or dive for scallops. And for those with larger boats, the Hen and Chicken Islands are further off the coast and reknowned for diving. Without a boat, it's a short walk along to the Urquharts Bay jetty - another popular local fishing spot.
For those wanting to challenge themselves physically while enjoying the stunning coastal enviornment, there are 11 specially developed walking tracks in the area. These vary in fitness levels and duration. From Urquharts Bay, you can explore the Smugglers Bay walk and the Peach Cove track. It's a short drive to the base of Mt Manaia - a challenging walk with breathtaking views of the coastline. For surfers, Ocean Beach, is only six minutes drive away. The beach is patrolled in summer.
En route to Urquharts Bay, visitors can collect extra provisions from the Four Square at Parua Bay, and there is a BP service station. The Parua Bay Tavern is also on the way, and there are cafes at Parua Bay and McLeods Bay. Emergency supplies can also be purchased at the nearby Taurikura Store.
Check in 3pm, check out 11am.
Special conditions:
Kayaks - Two kayaks with adult size lifejackets.
Property Access - Trailers and large vehicles are not permitted at the rear of the property. The concrete driveway to this area is narrow and turning is tight. There is ample room for parking boats and trailers at the front of the property off-road.
Beach Footwear - The shoreline of Urquharts Bay is stoney in places, so beach shoes are recommended.

Extras: Cleaning (Required, NZ$60.00 per stay); Bedding /sheets/tea towels and towels provided)

Property manager

Karen Clearwater

Languages

English

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Ocean view

House Rules

Check in after 3:30 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
It should be accompanied by an adult

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
The concrete driveway access to the rear of the property is narrow, so large vehicles and trailers are restricted from using this driveway.

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
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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Whangarei Heads

Located in Whangarei Heads, this holiday home is on the beach. While the natural beauty of Taurikura Bay and Ocean Beach can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can head to Bream Head Coast Walks. Jet skiing and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and mountain climbing nearby.
Map
Urquharts Bay, Whangarei Heads

What's nearby

  • Mount Manaia - 5 min drive
  • Ocean Beach - 6 min drive
  • Reotahi Bay - 9 min drive
  • Bream Head Coast Walks - 11 min drive
  • Ruakaka Beach - 61 min drive

Getting around

  • Whangarei (WRE) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Land & Sea - ‬60 min drive
  • ‪Two Birds Cafe, Ruakaka Cafes - ‬57 min drive
  • ‪The Deck - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪McLeod Bay Fish and Chips - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Smith & Local Parua Bay - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house?

Check-in begins at 3:30 PM.

What time is check-out at Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house located?

Nestled on the beach, this Whangarei Heads holiday home is 1.4 mi (2.2 km) from Taurikura Bay and 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Ocean Beach. Mount Manaia and Mcleod Bay are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.4

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. 28 out of 39 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 39 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 39 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 39 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 39 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Maïté G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a quiet place
We were looking for a quiet place on our trip to the north. We found everything we need there.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carol F., Canastota, NY, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Haven on the Bay
Absolutely loved our stay at the far end of Whangarei Heads. Such easy access to swim and hike. We enjoyed simply relaxing on the deck watching the tide come in and out. Visiting town was a scenic winding road - happy to explore, shop and eat, but always wanted to return 'home'. Thank you Karen for sharing your piece of paradise. It's always a pleasure for us gray nomads to find such a perfect spot to nest for awhile.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jean G.

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
Couldn't ask for a better spot!
A lovely homely environment with all the comforts and facilities met. Wonderful peaceful location with an absolute stunner of a view and sunset evenings. Close to many coastal walks with beautiful scenery.especially with the Pohutukawa flowers being in full blossom...a sight to behold.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wally S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The views! The quiet!
The ever changing action on the bay & the peaceful location combined to make a great weeks stay
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brooke L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely home
This lovely property has just what you need for a beachside holiday. We were only there for a short weekend so did not have the chance to make full use of all there was to offer. The kayaks were calling for us but unfortunately we didn’t have time. The view is stunning, the house is homely, it had everything we needed. Karen provided all the tips, tricks and need to knows with super fast communication. Thank you for sharing your place with us.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shand P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot
This was our second time staying at this awesome bach. Perfect spot. We love it!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anca W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ah, the hikes and the view
We loved it and hope we can return one day!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Linda M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Great Place to Stay
We loved it here. It's comfortable, well-equipped, and well located, with great walks and swimming on your doorstep. Can't wait to get back!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dom M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wow, what a place!!
Fantastic location and an awesome house to stay at, really hope to get to stay there again! Straight across the road from the end of the drive, into the sea. Lovely pohutakawa tree right therer with a rope bench seat in the shade to gently swing on while watching the kids in the water. Just the most relaxing place in the world.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shand P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great loaction
We loved our stay at Urquharts Bay. Great location with awesome views down the harbour. Easy access to all tide boat ramps and the fishing was good for us in the entrance. The house has everything you need and plenty of shade on the back deck when its baking out the front. Heaps to do in the area with Ocean Beach not far away and plenty of nice walks to other bays on your door step. We would love to come back one day!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Peter M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A gem
Great place. Excellent location. We absolutely will return.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

darin H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
2021 Holidays
Beautiful location, thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Unfortunately can’t count on the fishing though. 😂 House was very affordable and neat and clean. Would highly recommend this property.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Danielle C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great family spot
Perfect home and location for weekend, lovely view over the water and well equipped house with all the basics. Thanks Karen.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey X.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stunning gem
The property was as described, house was super clean and the view was amazing!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Megan P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely view across the road from the beach
Fun kayaking. Well equipped kitchen. Excellent communication. Five minutes from Ocean beach. Gorgeous sunsets. We wish we could stay for two weeks instead of 2 days.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Stacey S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome weekend getaway
Comfortable and homely relaxing accommodation with amazing views- fantastic weekend away - boating and great walks on the door step!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

8/10 Good

Jan L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location
Place had everything you needed. Stunning views and close to some great walks. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

debbie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
great property close to the beach and walks etc
Well kept property
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Ann E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay, very hospitable host
Lovely quiet destination, the house was very comfortable and we had everything we needed. Excellent communication and easy access. Really enjoyed our stay
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

alison f.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great holiday location
Had a really nice stay. Karen was very accommodating when I changed a couple of times

10/10 Excellent

lyn d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Urquarts bay.
Excellent location for family fun. House very good for extended family and very well equipped with kayaks etc. We found it just as advert said and communication with host very hood. Thankyou hope to return.
Stayed 11 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Judith W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Labour Weekend
Loved out house. Clean and well appointed with great views and everything we wanted. Great to find a house with single beds that aren't bunks. would stay here again. Good outdoor spaces. Manukau Tramping Club

10/10 Excellent

Ken G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Winter work station
Comfortable winter retreat - with fire and ample wood! well stocked, clean and a great place to settle to work with lovely walks all about.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019

8/10 Good

Demelza O.

Great time
Really enjoyed our stay. Awesome location! Owner was great to deal with.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

hari s.

Really very nice property in lovely scenic location
It has everything what we need, people can enjoy lot in this location, property is awesome got all the facilities, we can feel it has home
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019

About the host

Hosted by Karen Clearwater

Host profile image

What makes this property unique

Our property has expansive views across Urquharts Bay and the Whangarei Harbour. You'll never be bored as there is always something to look at and something to do. If the weather's good you can walk, swim, go boating, kayak or take a short drive to Ocean Beach and go surfing. If the weather isn't so good, then you can stay cosy and warm inside with a favourite book, board game, music, DVD or tune into Netflix using Chromecast. The property offers a homely comfort feel. It's private and there is plenty of parking for vehicles and a boat

Languages:

English
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