Art Lovers Retreat | Stay Waiheke

Summary:
A calm, light-filled retreat above Onetangi, private, peaceful, and designed for two

The Space:
Artist’s Retreat is a stylish, self-contained cottage designed for two. Surrounded by greenery high above Onetangi, it’s calm, private, and filled with natural light. Beneath its high gable roof, the open-plan living and dining area feels bright and welcoming, opening onto a wide deck that looks out across the bush.

The gallery kitchen is fully equipped for easy cooking and long, lazy mornings with the doors open. Everything here feels simple and effortless, make breakfast, pour a glass of wine, and let the rhythm of the island slow you down.

The bedroom is peaceful and comfortable, with a king bed dressed in soft linen and feather pillows that make slow mornings hard to leave behind. The home is arranged across two joined pavilions, creating an easy sense of space while keeping everything connected.

The deck sits at the heart of the home and becomes the place you’ll spend most of your time, shaded in summer, sheltered in the evening breeze, and perfect for slow lunches or wine at sunset. Out here, time slips by, just the two of you, the air warm, the island still.

Sleeps: 2 guests
Bedrooms: 1

1 × king bedroom – peaceful and light-filled, surrounded by greenery
Bathrooms: 1
Layout: One connected home with two joined pavilions (open-plan living, dining, and kitchen flowing to the deck)
Parking: On-site parking available for 1 vehicle

Guest Access:
The retreat is all yours, the private deck, and the peaceful gardens that surround them. There’s parking at the property, and the beach is just down the hill.
Check-in is from 2pm, and check-out is 10:30am. Early or late check-ins may be available for an additional cost, depending on bookings either side.

The Neighborhood:
Set high above Onetangi Beach on peaceful Victoria Road South, Artist’s Retreat sits tucked among the trees with a feeling of privacy and calm. The location feels quietly removed, yet everything that makes Waiheke special is just a short walk or drive away.

It’s about a ten-minute walk down to Onetangi Beach, a wide curve of soft white sand perfect for swimming, long walks, or a morning coffee at Charlie Farley’s, the locals’ favourite beachfront café. From there, wander along the sand, looking out across the water and the line of beautiful seaside homes.

For lunch, Three Seven Two serves modern coastal dishes right by the beach, while Ki Māha offers one of the island’s most celebrated dining experiences, exceptional food, ocean views, and a setting made for two.

If you’re exploring further, some of Waiheke’s top vineyards are close by, including Stonyridge, Tantalus, and Te Motu. The bus route runs nearby, with stops right outside many of the wineries, so you can explore at your own pace. For something a little different, try EcoZip Adventures, soaring above the native bush with sweeping views of the island, or play a round at the nine-hole golf course just down the road.

After a day out, stop at The Heke Brewery and Distillery, known for its craft beer, small-batch spirits, and Friday Sundowner DJ Sessions from 4 to 7 pm, a favourite local way to ease into the weekend.

Getting Around:
Getting around is easy from Art Lovers’ Retreat by Stay Waiheke. The local bus runs nearby along Onetangi Road, linking to Oneroa, Palm Beach, and the Matiatia Ferry Terminal. Many of the island’s top vineyards sit along the same route, making it simple to explore without needing a car.

There’s parking at the property if you’re driving, and for something a little more island-style, hire an e-bike or scooter to cruise between beaches, vineyards, and cafés at your own pace. Waiheke Island is about 20 kilometres long, with most of our properties located within the first 10 kilometres. Taxis are available, though they can be limited and expensive, so planning transport in advance is always a good idea.

Other Things to Note:
Like most Waiheke homes, the property runs on rainwater, so guests are asked to use it mindfully.
Pets may be accepted on request, subject to approval before booking.
There’s on-site parking for one vehicle.
Check-in is from 2 pm, and check-out is 10:30 am. Early or late check-ins may be available for an additional fee, depending on bookings before or after your stay.

Interaction with Guests:
The Stay Waiheke team are locals who love this island and are always happy to help. We’re available seven days a week from 8:30 am to 5 pm, and for emergencies only, there’s an after-hours number so you’re always covered.