After a fantastic drive down from Auckland, we eventually got to the Hahei beach road. At the end of this road you will find perhaps the best beach in New Zealand. A short drive up from the beach is Pohutukawa Lodge, nestled amongst native New Zealand flora. Our host Sheryl was friendly and welcoming, and showed us around the house, which has a beautiful view overlooking the valley.

It was well equipped, everything we needed was there. We had already stopped for groceries in Whitianga (recommended as the general store in Hahei is not a full grocery store, but will do for things like milk), so all we needed to do was unpack, relax and enjoy our stay.

Which we did, with a bottle of wine, some local cheese and crackers out on the deck. Watching the sunset, and then the night sky; the Milky Way stars were amazing to see.

We had the house to ourselves, but it would quite easily sleep 2 families (Mom, Dad and 2 kids). The house has a couple of outdoor patios, and a BBQ, and is well set up for indoor-outdoor living.

We used the kitchen to make dinner most of the nights we were there, and found everything we needed in the well stocked cupboards. The dishwasher was a nice thing to have as well!

This location gives easy access to places like Cathedral Cove, and Hot Water Beach, with shovels and beach towels thoughtfully provided.

All in all, we were not disappointed; the house was well represented in the listing.