Drive 30 minutes from Auckland City to one of the most unique parts of the West Coast. The Bethell's settled this area 6 generations ago and Trude and John continue the long family tradition of hospitality. They have created magic cottages and venue in this spectacular place where the best sunsets and seaviews are to be experienced - as seen in: Next (NZ), Cuisine (NZ), Elle (UK), Fodors (USA), Turquiose Holiday (UK) 2003. The cottages have a sunny north facing aspect and are surrounded by 200 year old pohutukawa's (NZ Christmas tree). Each one is totally separate, private and has a large brick barbecue. The vast front lawn is ideal for games and the gardens are thoughtfully designed for relaxation. The cottages are made up with your holiday in mind - not only are beds made and towels/linen put out, but Trude and John have attended to too many details to mention and laundry facilities are available. Even the cats will welcome you. As seen in Vogue Australia 1998. Life/The Observer (Great Britain 1998) - 'one of twenty great world wide destinations'. British TV Travel Show 1998. She magazine (February 1999) - 'one of the 10 most romantic places to stay in NZ'. North and South magazine (January 1999) - 'one of the 14 best Bed and Breakfasts in NZ' Oct 2002 - USA Fodors travel guide, "and many more exciting articles, reviews and interviews" <br/><br/><br/><br/>'TUREHU' COTTAGE has a studio atmosphere with double bi-folding doors from the conservatory. For outdoor dining sit under a pohutukawa tree at your own bench and table on the hillside with views over the beach and Bethell's valley. Cork floor in the kitchen, TV and bedroom area, gentle cream walls and white trim. Warm slate floors in the conservatory with lounge, dining table and bathroom (shower and toilet). Kitchen has microwave, large fridge/freezer, stove and coffee plunger, with all kitchen and dining amenities. Suitable for a couple and 1 child or 2 friends. <br/><br/><br/><br/>'TE KOINGA' COTTAGE, this superb home away from home is 80 square metre and has two bi-folding doors onto a 35 square metre wooden deck for outdoor dining and relaxation in this sun trap. Set under the shade of a magnificent spralling pohutukawa tree and surrounded by garden. A fireplace for winter warmth and 16 seater dining table. The 2 bedrooms have carpet and terracotta tiles expand to the dining, kitchen, bathroom and toilet. Wood panelled and cream/tan rag rolled walls for a relaxing atmosphere. The bathroom offers a bath and shower. Open planned kitchen has microwave, large fridge/freezer, stove, dishwasher and coffee maker. Suitable for a family, 2 couples or a small function. Trude is a marriage celebrant and Trude and John specialise in weddings, private functions and company workshops. A local professional chef is available for these occasions. <br/><br/><br/><br/>LOCAL ADVENTURES - Bethell's beach is a short drive or walk. Pack a picnic lunch and discover Lake Wainamu for fresh water swimming and expansive sand dunes or go on a bush walk with excellent examples of New Zealand native flora. If you head in the direction of the beach you may enjoy exploring the caves (at night the magic of glowworms and phosphorescence in the shallows), or go surfing or fishing. You are close to many world class vineyards and restaurants/cafes. You may fancy a game of golf - 2 courses within 10-20 minutes drive from your cottage. Many more activities in a short driving distance. No pets please. Children under 12 half price.<br/><br/>Wairua apartment:<br/>Expansive views, north facing, outdoor patio. Beautiful handcarved queen bed, tiled bathroom and cork floors throughout kitchen, lounge, bedroom and dining areas. Bright, airy, warm and cosy.