“Private Bliss” is PERFECTLY named - because that is exactly what we enjoyed the entire time we were there (about a week). The seclusion amongst the native trees and expansive paddocks, the fresh country air, and the sound of the surf from nearby Tokerau Beach all created a setting where we could really relax. We enjoyed seeing quail wandering about, as well as getting regular yard visits from a big black bunny, and there was even a cute little hedgehog who once walked right up to our feet, totally unafraid!
The bach itself is rustic with a laid-back vibe, comfy and very clean. The Ecoya diffusers were a pleasant touch too. The kitchen and bathroom areas are small but adequate and the bed was wonderfully comfy. We loved the way you can open the doors onto both the east and west decks and enjoy fresh breezes through the whole house on hot days, and a bonus of this is that any flies don’t hang around as they don’t like the breeze! (We’ve noticed that flies can be a problem at a number of other rural/coastal places we’ve stayed - so it was great not having to spend our holiday here clutching a fly-swat!)
We enjoyed phenomenally good weather the whole time we were there (cloudless skies most days!), and from the bach it’s an easy drive to a number of beautiful beaches where there was hardly anyone else around, even during school holidays. We also enjoyed the antipasto platter and chardonnay and the million-dollar views at the Carrington Estate Winery Cafe which is about 10 mins drive away. A hot soak in the glorious outdoor bath, watching the moon rise, and toasting marshmallows in the brazier under the stars are perfect ways to end the day.
Michelle is a wonderful host, all communication with her was warm and friendly and we felt like friends even though we’ve never met. She went out of her way to help us out with local info, even phoning a relative on the Peninsula to get advice for us about the best place to find tuatua (go down Ramp Rd to Tokerau Beach and walk south about 1 km - about 500 m past where the freedom camp is - if anyone’s wondering!)! With a bit of effort we did find some and they were yum!
We’d go back in a heartbeat and really hope to return one day. Thanks so much again Michelle!