You can’t get closer to the beach than Helens place. Although we were a bit unlucky to get rainy weather we still managed to spend the majority of our time on the porch (under the covered roof) looking out at the ocean. On the other hand, on our first evening we were extremely lucky to have seen a pod of orca swim by!!!
The photos listed are a very accurate description of Helen’s place. Additionally, the bathroom was nice and clean.
Tapu was a small and quiet little town. It is great if you are looking for a quiet retreat. If you’re looking for more action we’d recommend Coromandel Town. It should also be said that Tapu felt unwelcoming. We have lived in and traveled NZ for two years now, and our accents always give us away as North Americans. This never before left us feeling uncomfortable, but in Tapu it did. This was just our experience, and certainly could have been an unlucky fluke, but it feels important to mention.