We are Auckland residents, but were looking for a quiet spot after the extended lockdown in/near the Waitakeres to have a change of scenery, and an opportunity to switch off, relax, and just 'be', for a few days. Jill's place was perfect. Jill and Rodney are wonderful hosts - hospitable, engaging, kind, knowledgeable and very interesting to converse with. And yet we felt we had perfect privacy in the unit and the little patio area outside where we could relax, chat, gaze at the sea and the stars, and venture upstairs for a soak in the spa. We spend a fair bit of time walking the Waitakeres, but it was lovely to be staying somewhere so 'close' to many spots we like to frequent. The bush walk on the property has a lookout spot among the trees where you can sit quietly and contemplate life, while listening to the birds. In fact, the garden has abundant birdlife. We were lucky to see a lone kereru flying about each morning, and chatty tuis enjoying their breakfast of nectar while warming up for their day. The shared spaces (kitchen and living area) are vibrant and comfortable, and it was convenient to have a small fridge, kettle and microwave oven in our space for simple meals/drinks. Great water pressure in the shower (we have not always experienced this in places with tank-supplied water), and everything was spotlessly clean. Thank you, Jill and Rodney - we will definitely be back when we need another weekend or few days of calm away!