Mike's curio cottage is a little gem filled with interesting treasures which you are encouraged to explore by way of a little game.
Despite being between the main house and Mike's workshop and garage, it is quiet and private with an outdoor sitting area and easy access to the lovely grounds in front, to sit on the lawn under a tree.
Billie the dog may wander over to say hello, but is very well behaved and stops at the door.
Through the back gate is a hilly forested reserve with walking and mountain biking trails, and a lookout with a great view down over the city and port.
The cottage is within walking distance of town if you need to (about 2 km mainly along the riverside), but being at the crest of a hill means an uphill walk back for the last portion, so best suited to having a car.
The cottage is bigger than I expected, with thoughtful extras supplied.
The cream on top was being able to use the clean lovely new pool to cool off from the 30 deg heat.
We will return without hesitation when next in Gisborne.