We found the beautiful beach house to be exactly as is shown on line and it's proximity to the beach absolutely perfect. The tropical setting around the house is private and peaceful particularly at this time of year [early September]. Hot Water Beach is the perfect beach for a lovely long walk around the sweeping bay without a house in sight. A handful of friends were seen soaking in a hot pool they'd dug. We had two nights here and we were more than happy. We were perfectly comfortable, the slat bed lovely, the shower spacious had plenty of hot water and the kitchen well equipped.
We drove from here to Cathedral Cove [a MUST] in approximately ten minutes. Once there, there is a car park at the top of a very steep winding road along which there is no parking allowed at all. This car park [$16.00] is only available until the end of September, from then on it is closed and you are unable to park there. I believe there is a shuttle service that runs from the township up to the top of the hill from the beginning of October through the summer. It would pay to make enquiries regarding that as the walk from there to Cathedral Cove is very undulating and strenuous enough.
We were fortunate to see both Kereru [NZ wood pigeon], Fantails and Californian Quail on our walk back out from the Cove. Enjoy.
This is a beautiful part of New Zealand and Kirsty's place the perfect accommodation to spend time here.
Thank you so much Kirsty for the perfect stay.