We loved staying here - a lovely location by the beach - and we had great weather! The bach is between the calm inlet and the surf beaches, so good for everyone.
We didn't meet Kate but she arranged to leave the key for us in the garage so we let ourselves into the house when we arrived. The house and the sleep-out is clearly a loved weekend family home so it is well-equipped and there are beach toys for children as well as body boards which were a bonus!
Matakana, about 10 minutes away by car, has good shops and restaurants. There are no shops walkable from the house with a 4 year old, but the golf club is walkable and has a bar and cafe that's open to the public in the daytime, and a very pretty setting.
The gas barbecue was very good and in the evenings we enjoyed sitting on the deck chatting and listening to the sounds of neighbours enjoying barbecues and family get-togethers. It's a very friendly area with a lovely holiday, relaxed feel.