Shona & Ivan’s place is great if you’re looking for a space near Tutukaka coast where good diving and snorkeling takes place. It’s 10 mins from Tutukaka marina. Shona and her husband Ivan are very friendly and helpful with local tips. One of the things we enjoy is being able to kayak at one the bays a few minutes from Shona’s place. Shona and Ivan loaded up the kayaks and returned to pick them up when we were done. The space is immaculate with all the amenities one would need for a nice stay at an airbnb. They live upstairs but only popped in to offer help or to see if we needed anything. We felt like we were staying with friends. Being in Tutukaka, you’re about one hour from Paihia. I also recommend you allow time to go to Russell Island which is a ferry ride across the bay from Paihia where dinner at Duke of Marlborough is wonderful. Oh, if you enjoy high-adrenaline activities, parasailing with Kiwi flight is a lot of fun. Hope this review helps!