My partner and I spent a month in Beachlands with James and his family. We were hoping for a quiet, private apartment within walking distance to a beach where we could swim that was not too far from the Auckland CBD. We got exactly what we hoped for and more. Friendly hosts, a nicely set up apartment with a fully stocked kitchen, a great walking path, and a beautiful 30 minute ferry ride to Auckland.
During our stay, we were working on a couple of projects and wanted to be in a quiet place where we could get some work done. They even brought in a table for us so we could both have a lot of desk space.
We did not have a car for most of our stay and it worked out fine. The ferry is a 15-20 minute walk. The beach is a 15 minute walk. The local Countdown supermarket is also a 15 minute walk. You can also take the 739 bus to or from the market if you don't want to carry a lot of packages. That same bus takes you to Maratai beach or you can walk about 1.25 hours from their place to Maratai along a great walking path.
If you are using Google maps, note that they do not show an accurate ferry schedule, and you don't want to miss the last ferry home. Just do a search for the Pine Harbor Ferry to get the right schedule. The commute to Auckland CBD is convenient and scenic.
James, Kelly, and their children are very friendly and helpful. Highly recommend this place if you are looking to be close to Auckland and the beach.