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Whananaki Beach Retreat

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A modern outdoor living area with a sofa, two umbrellas, and a fire pit.
A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a large island with stools, and a view of greenery outside.
A coastal landscape with a beach, clear blue sea, and dense greenery.
A modern house with large glass windows, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and various trees.
A modern room with a large sliding glass door leading to a deck with a view of a lake and trees.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

6 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 162691 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Whananaki North, Whananaki
  • Place, Sandy Bay
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Paihia Beach
    ‪58 min drive‬
  • Place, Paihia Wharf
    ‪58 min drive‬
  • Airport, Whangarei (WRE)
    ‪46 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Whananaki

Located within 2 miles (3 km) of Sandy Bay, this vacation home is within 3 miles (5 km) of Motutohe Island. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a patio, and a refrigerator.
View more Vacation Homes in WhananakiOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Sandy Bay - 2 min drive - 0.7 miles
  • Town Basin Marina - 36 min drive - 33.4 miles
  • Paihia Beach - 58 min drive - 55.4 miles
  • Paihia Wharf - 58 min drive - 55.7 miles
  • Ruakaka Beach - 59 min drive - 56.2 miles

Getting around

  • Whangarei (WRE) - 53 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Manaia Espresso - ‬44 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Whananaki Beach Retreat

Wake up to uninterrupted water views, sink into plush interiors, and experience the perfect blend of coastal charm and modern luxury.

Nestled in the heart of Whananaki, this architecturally designed retreat offers an exclusive, hotel-like experience with the warmth of a private holiday home.
Floor-to-ceiling glass immerses you in the breathtaking coastal landscape, while rich timber interiors, expansive decks, and an elegant outdoor courtyard create an inviting sanctuary. Whether you're savoring your morning coffee overlooking the estuary or gathering for a sunset BBQ, every moment here is designed for effortless relaxation and indulgence.

A Home of Style & Comfort
Large House (Sleeps 8) – Your Luxe Coastal Haven

Wake up to serene water views from the master suite
- Spacious king-sized bedroom, plus two beautifully appointed rooms with 3 single beds.
- A designer kitchen featuring a walk-in pantry, gas hobs, oven, microwave, fridge, and double dish drawers—perfect for entertaining.
- Elegant dining space seating 12 guests, complemented by a stylish breakfast bar for 6
- A state-of-the-art home theater with a 120" UHD 4K movie projector & Apple TV—your private cinema by the sea
- Luxurious bathroom with a deep soaking tub and rain shower

Small House (Sleeps 8) – The Ultimate Private Retreat
- A tranquil super king master suite plus thoughtfully designed rooms for families & groups
- Light-filled entertainment space with TV, a kitchenette with a microwave, bar fridge & sink
- A cozy collection of kids’ toys & books for little explorers
- Modern bathroom with premium fittings
- Step outside to sun-drenched decks, lush lawns, and an exclusive outdoor dining area—just 100m from the boat ramp.

A Coastal Getaway Like No Other
- Wake up to the sound of waves, spend your days exploring hidden lagoons, untouched beaches, and the longest footbridge in the Southern Hemisphere, or simply unwind in your private sanctuary. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family gathering, or a retreat with friends, The Whananaki Beach Retreat is a seaside paradise built for unforgettable moments.

House Rules
Please do not ask to hold an event at the property, as we aren't able to accommodate
- No pets
- No smoking or vaping indoors
- No shoes inside
- No parties or events

Hot Tub Option
Not available in December or February due to water restrictions. Available at an additional $350 outside peak season—let us know when booking!
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2.5 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 6 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and an ironing board.

Similar properties

Front of property - evening/night
Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel
Paihia
  • Pool
  • Spa
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, 403 reviews
$106 nightly
The price is $124
Sep 15 - Sep 16
Total with taxes and fees
Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach loungers

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 6 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 1 accessible parking space
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • No elevator
  • Single level property
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near the ocean
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Water sports equipment
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Garden
  • Recycling
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Unit size: 2,691 square feet
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
All used beds stripped Fridge is emptied Air Conditioning is turned off Switch off all lights Lock all doors and windows All rubbish & recycling out on the kerb side Return keys to the lockbox
Please ensure all rubbish has been placed in the correct bins, and placed on the side of the road for Monday collections. Please take any excess rubbish and recycling with you, if it doesn't fit
If you have any damages or breakages, please do let us know as soon as possible, just so we can have the time to remedy this before other guests arrive.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets
  • Note from host: Outside dogs only

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Mini Whananaki House Whananaki
Mini Whananaki Beach House Whananaki
Mini Whananaki Beach House Private vacation home
Mini Whananaki Beach House Private vacation home Whananaki

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do close to this vacation home?

This vacation home is located in Whananaki, close to Moureeses Bay, Sandy Bay, and Matapouri Bay. Motutohe Island is also within a driving distance of 2 mi.

Is there parking available at Whananaki Beach Retreat?

Yes, there is wheelchair-accessible parking available.

Is this vacation home associated with a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, this vacation home doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.

What do couples enjoy most about Whananaki Beach Retreat?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this beachfront vacation home include a kitchen and a smart TV in each house, and some feature beach view.

Does Whananaki Beach Retreat have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home provide breakfast?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this vacation home allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.

Does Whananaki Beach Retreat have connecting rooms available?

No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is Whangarei (WRE), which is about 18.6 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at Whananaki Beach Retreat?

Yes, every house at Whananaki Beach Retreat comes with a patio and some offer beach views.

Whananaki Beach Retreat Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 42 out of 48 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 48 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 48 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 48 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 48 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Corey J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Whananaki

Cool place, lots of space and places to hang both inside and out. Great kitchen/dining space for a larger group.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nikhil F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Extended Family Vacation

Great spot with plenty of options either on the estuary or surrounding beaches. Nice separation and flow between the two houses allowing kids to hang out independently.Nice amenities and finish throughout with kayaks and paddle boards to make the most of high tide.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sonia D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

fabulous time at Mini Whananaki

We just simply fell in love with the place. Great facilities, fabulous location, beautiful house and great company! We enjoyed kayaking in the estuary, surfing at Moureeses, and going for long walk around Whananaki. This weekend felt very special in many ways, and we are glad we shared it with friends and family.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Michelle W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wow Whananaki

This accommodation was perfect for our four family holiday. There was plenty of space, plenty to do (walks, boating, snorkelling, SUPing, games...) and plenty of fun was had together. Thank you for sharing your space.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Wick N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing as always!

I have been to this venue several times now and every time we're blown away with how awesome it is. The location is incredible, right on the waters edge and it's so spacious and perfect. Thank you yet again.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Irwn R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazingly Beautiful Home

It was a perfect getaway with the family for Easter break! We had a wonderful time in such a beautiful home which had everything you need for a restful vacation! From home amenities to cleanliness to improvised activities at home then add the proximity to serene beach spots plus a very accommodating host Alex just made it a worthwhile and memorable place to stay! Just an amazing experience and highly recommend for group/family travel! Worth every single penny plus more! Will surely be back…thanks again for sharing your Amazingly Beautiful Home!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Molly A.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location

Lovely location for a Family holiday

Whananaki is a great location. Very quiet and peaceful for a relaxing holiday. The house sits right in front of the beautiful bay, its very tidal but excellent for swimming, canoeing, SUP, especially with kids. Walkable to a couple of other idyllic beaches, with bigger waves and swimming holes. The house is great for an extended family or families with 2 separate living areas, and shared deck and seating areas outside. Open plan living space and modern appliances, but the house has the patina of Bach life, so doesn’t feel too precious. The house is well stocked, but due to remote location it’s advisable to bring anything you need. We really enjoyed our stay and would certainly stay again. Thanks!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

ngaire H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Norris Whanau Reunion

We had been attending a family reunion further North. In the past, we had stayed in several separate locations but being able to book a beautiful home in a beautiful locale that was able to accommodate 16 (yes.... 16) of us..... it simply ticked all the boxes. Ranging in age from 6 to 78 and with a bunch of younger and older teens, having the two houses separated by a very comfortable outdoor fire pit area just worked. With the large flat lawns, the estuary directly across the road, and boogie boards, paddle boards and kayaks on hand, the kids, young and old were kept occupied and nicely worn out. The property itself was incredibly beautiful, well provisioned and built for comfort. Lovely linen bedding and a kitchen with every conceivable mod con..... can't wait to go back.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Wick N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing as always

This is about the 7th or 8th time I've rented this place and it just wows me every time, it's so perfect for what I do and everyone who comes just loves it. We'll be back again! Thank you.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Wick N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it yet again!!

Thanks fir a fabulous stay. We loved it again and each time we get some thing different out of our stay. We’ll be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Wick N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing as per usual!

This is about the 7th or 8th time I have rented this property and we love it every single time. The layout is amazing, it accommodates large groups, the owners are fantastic and great to communicate with, and it's really warm, even when it's cooler outside. There's so much space, even if you have a large group. I would highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Rochelle J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We loved our time here!

Beautiful spot for a getaway with a big group, in this case multiples families with children. Great layout with lots of space so you’re not always on top of each other. We had many great meals and games nights around the large dining table. The spa was also enjoyed! Owners were easy to contact and resolved a few minor issues quickly.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2022
Verified review

8/10 Good

Wick N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent as always

Fabulous time again! About my 6th or 7th time staying here. It was wet this tone but if forced us to relax and read books, sleep which is exactly what the girls needed. Thanks, looking forward to September already. The soa was amazing!!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Verified review

8/10 Good

john c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great for large groups

We spent 11 nights at Mini Whananaki with a group of friends, with up to 14 people at any one time in the bach. The space is designed in a way that makes it perfect for relaxing with a large group at all times of day. On the negative side is the lack of ventilation in the bedrooms, with generally only one opening window per room, plus the amazing amount of flies that make the place their home on a daily basis despite overnight killing blitzes - having some form of pyrethrum spray to keep the flies at bay would be great. Overall great place to have lots of people chilling out in a great location
Stayed 11 nights in Apr 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sue K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Northland experience

This property was an excellent fit for our family ranging from 8 months to 75 years. Proximity to lovely coves and beaches plus the ins and outs of the estuary provided a holiday with lots of action, with the help of the well thought out ‘toy shed’. Evenings saw the little ones delve into the large treasure chest of toys whilst the big ones relaxed with cocktails around the fire pit, memories were imprinted for the future! Overall gorgeous break in a place unknown to us with its own remote character. 🥂
Verified review

8/10 Good

Kirin C.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent location!!

Great location for families and great big house for everyone to have their own space. Rooms are extremely hot in summer as only one little window and small fans didn't provide much relief unfortunately. Lots of books and games to keep everyone entertained and cool outdoor area with fire pit. Great communication with owners!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ania M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A very special place

We spent 3 nights at Mini Whananaki with a group of 12 friends + 1 infant. The space was spectacular - clean, modern and thoughtfully decorated. The space is designed in a way that makes it perfect for relaxing with a large group at all times of day. The beach across the road offers a great spot for making use of the kayaks and paddle boards - a great swim spot is just across the inlet. The kitchen and dining area is fantastic for socialising during cooking and sharing meals together. It was very well equipped and offered everything we needed. The outdoor fire pit and couches made for a great spot to relax in the evenings. The projector in the lounge along with the very comfortable couch make for a very fun way to end the night. Beds are very comfortable with great quality linen sheets. We enjoyed our stay so much, we managed to secure it for an extra night - it was hard to leave! Some minor issues we encountered with the water upon arrival were sorted quickly, which was appreciated. The house is outstanding and Whananaki itself charming and relaxing. The local shop is tiny but somehow manages to be very well stocked - the fish and chips are great. Overall a 10/10 stay - there's no doubt we'll return in the future! Fantastic house in an excellent location.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Emie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

My daugther posted a video (recap of our stay) at FUN A NAKIsUPERB

Superb Holiday home for family and friends.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Julie K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magic family weekend

This is a superb and spacious property close to the waterfront and perfectly designed for groups of all ages to share a holiday. It’s layout enables both separation and, in our case, ready supervision of younger children. Generous supply of water equipment - kayaks, paddle boards etc. Gorgeous architecture is a real pleasure. Owners very helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Wick N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent yet again!

We absolutely love staying in this property, everyone who comes here loves the house, the area and the tranquility of the location. Definitely recommend, has everything you need. We'll be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Robyn D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Group getaway

A fantastic house for a group of adults to unwind, hike, fish and swim.
Stayed 9 nights in Jan 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Wick N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT!

Best place ever, but don't want everyone to know about it! Haha... such a cool house, superb surroundings, best way to get away and relax. Totally recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Catherine B.

perfect extended family holiday home

Ideal location and accommodation for our 3 generation family. Plenty of open light space in a stunning house with an interesting history. Safe for the children and near a safe beach. Plenty of beaches and walks nearby and a very helpful and well stocked shop 5 mins walk away.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2019
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Wick N.

LOVE this place, it’s the absolute best, in one of the best places in the country!!

Definitely recommend. I’ve already booked our next weekend!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Vesa X.

Beautiful house and great location

The house was perfect for our big family. The kitchen was well kitted out and the dinning table sits 12! We had a perfect holiday.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2019