We had very high expectations of The Apple Pickers' Cottage but it managed to exceed them. We felt at home immediately - it's a very comfortable place to stay. But it's the views out that make it, you just want to sit and look out over the water and at the hills beyond, listening to the birds. If you feel more active you can go Paddle boarding or canoeing when the tide is in.
Of course, there's loads to do locally. We had a blazing hot day where we kayaked around coves with golden sand and swam in the warm sea. Our second day was very wet with clouds sitting below the hilltops and we walked through a forest along a river to the Whispering Falls (there's a freshwater swimming spot there too but it was a it bitey). Very atmospheric.
Elspeth was a great host, there when needed but respectful of our privacy. I enjoyed looking round the vegetable garden with her and her courgettes and rhubarb were delicious.
There are lots of supermarkets locally (Nelson, Richmond, Stoke) and Mapua Country stores provided great picnic food. We went for a meal at Mapua Wharf but ended up bringing fish and chips back to the house from The Smokehouse - really delicious!
We really didn't want to leave and only wish Karaka was nearer home so we could go back regularly.