I really loved my stay at Nirvana. It is very well located (1 min from the ferry and 5 mins from Russell) yet quiet and out of the way from any noise, and with lovely views.
Colette has a very comfortable and clean house. She has invested in good mattresses and my bedroom was just perfect (with balcony and views). A large bathroom with quality fittings. I slept so well and appreciated that it was so quiet.
It is perfectly located for Russell and it's choice of good places to eat. Pompallier House is definitely worth a visit. I also enjoyed the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the wine tasting at local vineyards (minutes from Nirvana!). I also enjoyed a visit to sculpture gardens at Kerikeri, and eating at Charlotte's kitchen in Paihia.
The ferry is 13 dollars one way and goes every 10 mins, and takes about 10 mins to cross.
Colette was a very amenable host, and I loved the fact that I heard a kiwi calling from her garden one evening!
I would definitely stay there again!