We absolutely loved our stay at Judy's house - the photos don't lie, the view is truly spectacular! We could sit outside on the deck all day looking out over Doubtless Bay. The house itself is basic but clean, comfortable, and very well stocked. We stayed the entire month and worked remotely, pausing every now and then to take in the view and walk down the nice little path into the olive grove. We also enjoyed the warmth of the wood heater. Judy & Kim are such lovely hosts (they brought us a desk when we told them we were working!) and clearly care for the property like their own.
And it goes without saying that the surrounding area is the perfect base for Northland - Coopers Beach (10 min drive) has a great supermarket, butchery, and coffee shop, and a fantastic beach backed by shady trees. Taupo beach (20 min drive), Matauri Bay (45 mins), and Bay of Islands (50 mins) are also spectacular. And don't miss Cape Reinga.
Altogether it was a wonderful and refreshing month, we hope to be back someday.