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Kākā Ridge Retreat Luxury Cottage at Tāwharanui, Matakana

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Relax and take in the view from your private front lawn
Expansive views of the Hauraki Gulf
Deck, lawn and pretty garden beds just outside your living room
Another relaxing spot on the front deck
Outdoor bath with flower beds alongside

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 260 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi
    Free WiFi
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Matakana, Tawharanui Peninsula
  • Tawharanui Regional Park
    3 min drive
  • Baddeleys Beach
    9 min drive
  • Omaha Beach
    35 min drive

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bush View

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Kākā Ridge Retreat Luxury Cottage at Tāwharanui, Matakana

Winter special - 3 nights for the price of 2 - ask and we'll amend the pricing.

Magnificent sea and native bush views an hour north of Auckland on the Tāwharanui Peninsula.

On a coastal ridge, Kākā Ridge Retreat Luxury Cottage is a two-room cottage offering you the ultimate in privacy and tranquility.

We’re five minutes from Tāwharanui Regional Park and only 15 minutes from the Matakana Village weekend farmers’ market, restaurants, cafes, boutique shops and a cinema complex.

Rest, seclusion and luxury are all yours on the Tāwharanui Peninsula at Matakana. Soak up the morning or afternoon sun, enjoy romantic sunsets or star gaze at night to your heart’s content with no city lights to dim the Milky Way.

Situated on a coastal ridge with sweeping views, Kākā Ridge Retreat Luxury Cottage is a hidden treasure. The 60 square metre cottage boasts a bedroom with ensuite, living room with dining and kitchen areas, laundry, decks on three sides, an outdoor bath and a pretty cottage garden, and is designed to provide you with the ultimate getaway.

The luxurious bedroom is French country chic with a super comfortable king bed and premium sheets to ensure you’re well rested. Your bedroom looks across a gently sloping lawn directly at a huge stand of covenanted native bush. This is a bird lover’s paradise: tūī, kererū, kākā, ruru, pīwakawaka, kōtare, kākāriki and korimako often come to the edge of the decks and into the gardens. If you're lucky at dusk you will see a flock of kākā flying overhead or ruru in the trees catching their puriri moth dinner.

From your living room you have a stunning view of the sea – an 180 vista including near and far islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Kawau seems only a stone’s throw away, while Waiheke and Rangitoto are visible in the distance. On a clear day, you can even see the Auckland Sky Tower peeping over the horizon. This retro styled room is relaxingly comfortable and includes dining area and kitchen with fridge/freezer, oven, hob, kettle, toaster, dishwasher, nespresso machine. There is also a BBQ tucked under the veranda outside. You will have everything you need to put together meals of your own. We provide a selection of local specialities on arrival, enough for a couple of breakfasts or lunches. For dinner, we also highly recommend you try one of the many wonderful local restaurants. A laundry and storage room off the living room includes a washing machine and generous supplies of additional towels and other items you might need.

It’s a strange claim to fame but our visitors have said that we have the best “loo with a view” in Aotearoa. The bathroom feels as though it’s totally immersed in the bush canopy.

A heat pump in the living area, a Noirot convection heater in the bedroom and electric blankets provide heating as needed in the winter. The cottage has high ceilings, a huge picture window towards the sea view and French doors on two sides so is light and sunny on a fine day.

Kākā Ridge Retreat Luxury Cottage truly does offer an exceptional escape experience. It would be hard to beat this coastal getaway, its expansive views, country location or its ease of access to all the attractions of the Matakana area.

Special conditions:
Property is non-smoking inside and outside.

Extras: Breakfast (included); Cleaning (included); Linen (included)

Property manager

KatherineFa3
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Water view

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 12:00 PM

Children

Adults only

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Tawharanui

Located in Tawharanui, this cottage is in a rural area. Matakana Village and Matakana Weekend Market are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Omaha Beach and Dome Forest. Action Ninja World and Blue Adventures are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking and hiking/biking trails.
Map
Matakana, Tawharanui Peninsula

What's nearby

  • Tawharanui Regional Park - 3 min drive
  • Matakana Country Park - 11 min drive
  • Matakana Village - 13 min drive
  • Omaha Beach Golf Club - 18 min drive
  • Omaha Beach - 35 min drive

Getting around

  • Auckland (AKL-Auckland Intl.) - 82 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cafe Sandspit - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪The Parsley Pot Cafe - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪8 Wired Brewing - Barrelworks - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪The Sawmill Brewery - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Leigh Fish and Chips - ‬23 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Kākā Ridge Retreat Luxury Cottage at Tāwharanui, Matakana pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Kākā Ridge Retreat Luxury Cottage at Tāwharanui, Matakana?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Kākā Ridge Retreat Luxury Cottage at Tāwharanui, Matakana?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Kākā Ridge Retreat Luxury Cottage at Tāwharanui, Matakana located?

Situated in a rural location, this cottage is 1.6 mi (2.5 km) from Tawharanui Regional Park and within 6 miles (10 km) of Baddeleys Beach and Action Ninja World. Matakana Country Park and Matakana Cinemas are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 35 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Stayed 2 nights in May 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kevin D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Private paradise
It is not often you find a place that exceeds expectations but this is one of them. I won't spoil the suprise for you but if you want quiet - apart from birds - a view and comfort near the Tawharanui park sanctuary, this is it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steve R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic stay
Fantastic place to get away from the hustle and bustle, just an hour away from the city. Really great stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl H., San Carlos, CA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect in every way
The Kaka Ridge cottage was the perfect place for our New Zealand holiday rest. The hosts gave thought of everything to make the accommodations comfortable and functional. Bedding is fabulous, kitchen well equipped, furnishings just what you need - it’s all meticulous. And the view and setting are spectacular! Thank you Katherine and John for a lovely 2023 Christmas.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nigel B., New Zealand

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Rest and relax.
A wonderful stay in a wonderful space and place. Beautiful views and gardens - we even came home with gifted plants to grow. Highly recommend the cottage and the lovely hosts.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brooke C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing retreat
A great location away from the hustle and bustle of life. My partner and I spent three nights here and enjoyed our time thoroughly. Thank you.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

David L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic, relaxed beauty
We had a fantastic couple of nights stay at Kaka Ridge Retreat. Katherine and John were fabulous hosts and helped make the stay a wonderful experience. Sitting in the outdoor bath on the deck with the views over Kawau Island and the Hauraki Gulf is just amazing. Have put it on the "must return to" list, that's for sure!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Aiden D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely wonderful again
2nd trip here and just as amazing as the first. Would definitely recommend to go here. Absolutely wonderful
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Alisa H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful
Fabulous cottage, gorgeous setting and wonderful hosts. We will be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Matt H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Honeymoon Done Right
What a place. Katherine & John were great hosts and very welcoming. The accommodation was cosy and had more than we needed, it was very homely. It had small added touches such as local bread, spreads and breakfast options, which really felt above and beyond - we really appreciated this. The views were also outstanding. We can not fault it and would love to stay here again. 10/10
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Molly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Little slice of heaven
Nothing disappointed about this place. The views were amazing, the hosts were friendly and accommodating and the cottage was spotless! A real gem, worth every penny.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tracey L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Comfortable Getaway
Perfect spot, everything well thought out, we loved the unexpected extra yummy local treats to try. Great shower pressure and the bath was very relaxing. Board games and good old DVD's also perfect for the crazy weather we had, still loved our weekend away.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Richard A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing spot
Our 2 night were excellent and the apartment is very spacious, delicious breakfast. Thanks
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Anya V., Auckland, New Zealand

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful
We really enjoyed our stay at the Cottage. It is exactly as described - tastefully furnished, very comfortable, spotlessly clean, with quality bed linen and a very comfortable bed. We woke up to stunning views and at night had the most amazing clear views of the Milky Way from our deck. The Cottage is very private and it was lovely to enjoy the birdlife and the quietness. Breakfast goodies were delicious and the outdoor bath was an absolute hit! Katherine and John were welcoming and accommodating. Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Graeme B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great private spot
Friendly discreet hosts
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Claire S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful weekend away
Just perfect. Very quiet, private and peaceful. We had a lovely weekend away from the kids. We spent time visiting Matakana and swimming at the beach. The hosts were helpful, and left lovely food for our breakfast. Would definitely go back!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Toni K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Simply stunning
Fantastic property, we had such a great stay. Arrived on Easter Friday and Katherine had thoughtfully provided fresh bread, salmon, and fruit. Absolutely gorgeous views and the native birds were a delight. Would definitely stay again if we had the opportunity.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lee T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful, beautiful, comfortable
Wonderful hosts sharing a beautiful spot with others, thank you to you both. By far the best experience we've had. So quiet, so private, a beautiful outlook and plenty to do or not do as we chose. Fantastic. We want to do it again.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Heather M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic property
The property is a great couple retreat, private, well appointed, scenic and well-maintained. John and Catherine were delightful to deal with and couldn't have been more welcoming. We enjoyed our stay immensely.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Aiden D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing
From the beautiful views to to the cozy interior, everything has made for an amazing experience. We can't wait to come again
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Chris p., Auckland

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tranquility Personified!
This was an amazing oasis of calm up on the ridge with amazing views one way to the bay and the other out across virgin bush. The bach is luxurious with the best view from a bathroom window ever! The local inhabitants welcome you with a vast range of calls- from the screech of the Kaka that fly up and over the ridge to the unworldly cackle of the Kookaburras - yes I did say Kookaburras! Katherine and John are helpful and thoughtful hosts allowing you to set the level of engagement you want. We had the most blissful, quiet and relaxing few days here and will definitely be heading back soon.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Hilary L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet weekend away
Lovely private cottage with a great view and amazing native bird life. Katherine and John are wonderful hosts, making us feel welcome but leaving us to the privacy of our stay. Their provided breakfast was a treat.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Nick L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect stay!
Repeat visit for our anniversary. Wonderful accommodation in amazing location. Will be coming back for sure!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Marilyn B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Traquil oasis
One if the best places to stay at in matakana
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Meredith K., New Zealand

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
WOW!! Beautiful!
Chris and I loved Kaka Ridge. It is everything in the listing and more. If you are after a relaxing, quiet (except amazing birdlife), comfortable weekend - this is the place!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

About the host

Hosted by KatherineFa3

Host profile image
My husband John and I moved from Auckland city to the Tāwharanui Peninsula in 2015. We love it here and have never missed city living once!

Prior to living in Tāwharanui John and I had corporate careers in telecommunications and project management. We still do consulting work from home and travel to Auckland for work from time to time.

Why they chose this property

We love the peace and quiet and the abundance of bush, birds and sea. We are lucky enough to have a completely separate cottage on our property that we renovated for short-term rental during 2016 and updated in 2021.

What makes this property unique

Beautiful bush and sea views, wonderful bird life, privacy and a 15 minute drive to Matakana Village or five minutes the other way to Tāwharanui Regional Park. The cottage is fully equipped for travellers looking for privacy, seclusion, the beauty of nature and some luxury. There is so much to do here and it's classic New Zealand.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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