Taiwawe Bay gets 5 million stars. My wife and I, with our sons (7 & 10) visited the Northland for almost 3 weeks. The hosts Andrew and Anders were very helpful, friendly and accommodating. While there we saw the sights as far north as Ahipara and traversed to both coasts for day or over night trips a couple of times. Of all the places we went Taiwawe Bay was by far the most beautiful, private, memorable and pristine location and we all cant wait to get back there. The ‘star of the show’ at this place is the sheer beauty of the setting. The emerald bay is sheltered and protected from most winds and seas, the Island beckons you for beach picnics, sand treasure hunting and snorkeling. If fishing is your thing then there are amazing snapper grounds, we were also super surprised to discover the quality of the surfing breaks very near the property. The Bach itself and surrounding dwellings are cozy and well placed, the vantage point from the glamping tents is breath taking and you feel as though you are floating in the clouds. Of an evening, by firelight, the milky way was on overdrive, mesmerizing us all. It was lovely to see our kids faces as we shared all these experiences. The hosts have a really good selection of books too, from helpful guide books to easy page turners, as well as informative nature and local historical publications of which we enjoyed. We recommend the short car rides through the near by farms to the beaches of Ngahau and Mimiwhangata Coastal farm park. Also, visiting the Gallery and cafe on Helena Bay Hill for a very good selection of local arts and some delicious coffee and food. There’s a small general store in Oakura, (30min) which is handy, and the proprietress has insanely fluffy cats, which is adorable. Honestly, we can’t say enough about this place, and though we stayed there with our small family, I think it is also an ideal place for a larger group to stock up and camp out, there are ample tent sites and amenities to host comfortably. So, is Taiwawe Bay for you? If amongst your family or group you share a can-do/do-it-yourself ethos, have a love for outdoors and wilderness, and are looking for a bonding time together in New Zealand, then don’t hesitate to book it. You can fish, swim, explore and dream. This is the most magical destination in the Northland.

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