Skip to main content
Entire home

“The Yard Master” Schooner Bay

Photo gallery for “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay

A wooden bench overlooking a coastal area with a view of the sea and a distant island. - “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay (Great Barrier Island)
A kitchen with a wooden table, chairs, a refrigerator, and a stove. - “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay (Great Barrier Island)
A rustic cabin with a sloped roof, a small porch, and a single light source. - “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay (Great Barrier Island)
A bedroom with a bed, curtains, and a window with a view of greenery. - “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay (Great Barrier Island)
A living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a bean bag chair. There are large windows with a view of greenery outside. - “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay (Great Barrier Island)
Nestled amongst ancient pohutakawas, The Yard Master offers a tranquil retreat in Schooner Bay. Unwind with breathtaking views of the bay, comfortable living areas, and simple kitchen equipment like a wood fired coal range. Explore nearby white sandy beaches or take advantage of the boat shed for kayaking and snorkeling adventures.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fireplace

Add dates for prices

About this property

“The Yard Master” Schooner Bay

  • *** please educate yourself on current fishing restrictions before you head to Great Barrier island. There are currently Rahui’s in place to protect our moana and restrictions due to an invasive seaweed. Caulerpa Is a real threat and needs to be taken seriously 🙏 these restrictions effect fishing, shellfish collection, anchorage and general boating areas...***

    LINK:
    https://www.mpi.govt.nz/dmsdocument/47623-Information-sheet-on-Caulerpa-brachypus-and-the-Controlled-Area-Notice

    The yard master is a characteristic 3 bedroom family batch in Schooner bay nestled amongst ancient pohutakawas. With an abundance of native bird life and breath taking views of the bay you will feel like your in your own slice of paradise.

    The bay provides great fishing, diving and beautiful sunsets. This is the perfect place to unwind and disconnect from everyday life and reconnect to nature.

    It is only a 10 minute drive from Tryphena harbour, local shops, cafe and Irish pub.

    This unique space offers comfortable living areas, wood fired coal range, gas oven/hobs, gas fridge/freezer, simple kitchen equipment, large deck, bath/shower and a flushing toilet.

    The house is off grid running on 12 volt solar which is mainly used for lighting, this is a great place to take a break from technology but there is internet at local shops if needed.

    There is a boat shed right on the water with kayaks, dingys, bbq, outside shower and fish filleting table. If you are up for an ocean adventure there are sea caves and coves you can visit within the bay on kayaks and stunning snorkeling everywhere you look. The boat shed is a shared space for renters, family and friends.

    There are plenty of hiking tracks, white sandy beaches and even a hot water spring no more 30 minutes away.

    This is a truly epic place surrounded in rich native bush and stunning coastline. The night sky is something dreams are made of and sunsets you wouldn’t believe. The thing that makes great barrier special is the island itself.. something’s just can’t fit in a little description box, you might just have to come see.

    Please book 72 hours in advance, leave one day between bookings for maintenance and tidy up before you leave :)

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby
  • Beach loungers

Parking and transport

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Freezer
  • Hob
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio
  • Yard

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • Near the ocean

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Swimming nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

Similar properties

Premium Two Bedroom Apartment, Full Sea View (Unit 1) | Balcony
Tipi and Bob's Waterfront Lodge
Great Barrier Island
  • Parking included
  • Restaurant
  • Business services
  • Bar
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, 17 reviews
Tipi and Bob's Waterfront Lodge
Compare similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

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

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that 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 and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that 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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Located in Great Barrier Island, this holiday home is near the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Medlands Beach and Blind Bay. Kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails nearby. Visit our Great Barrier Island travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Great Barrier Island
Map
Great Barrier Island, Auckland Region

What's nearby

  • A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, clear blue waters, and green hills in the background.
    Medlands Beach
    31 min drive - 15.0 km
  • Kaitoki Beach
    45 min drive - 26.8 km
  • Blind Bay
    46 min drive - 27.5 km
  • Awana Bay
    51 min drive - 30.0 km
  • Whangaparapara Harbour
    53 min drive - 31.1 km

Getting around

  • Great Barrier Island (GBZ)
    28 min drive

Restaurants

  • My Fat Puku
    20 min drive
  • Mulberry Grove General Store
    12 min drive
  • Angsana Thai Restaurant
    23 min drive
  • Great Barrier Lodge
    37 min drive
  • Pa Beach Cafe
    8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is “The Yard Master” Schooner Bay located?

Situated by the ocean, this holiday home is within 12 miles (20 km) of Medlands Beach, Blind Bay and Kaitoki Beach. Awana Bay and Mount Hobson are also within 20 miles (32 km).

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

“The Yard Master” Schooner Bay Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 26 out of 37 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 37 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 37 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 37 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 37 reviews

8.8

Cleanliness

9.4

Location

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amanda M.

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

Magical spot

We had the best time at Schooner Bay. Loved the house, perfect for a family, and the peaceful cove, exploring with the kayaks and swimming with dolphins. Simple fun and good times. Hope we can stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Jacqueline F.

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

Review

Great location, loved kyaks. House was good for large group but kitchestove, pots cooking facilities a little outdated.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kirsty W.

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

Fabulous Holiday Venue

Family are keen fisher people. They loved the location, access to water and water sport equipment generously made available to us. The Yardmaster house easily fitted us all (4 adults, 2 children). Wondaful spot:)
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

AARON H.

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

The Best Sunsets....

The Yardmaster is great for a group. Still close to Tryphena. Very Private.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Trudy T.

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

The way it used to be

Decades ago everyone left their houses and cars unlocked, car windows down and honesty boxes on the side of the road. Aotea and The Yardmaster is that vibe. The manaakitanga/hospitality floods over you from all the toys in the boat shed for you to enjoy to an onion in the pantry for your burgers. The peace and serenity enveloped you from the moment you turn in to the driveway. You definitely need a vehicle ... and then it's hard to leave. I could write about beds and showers and yet, when such generosity is bestowed upon you, all you feel is abundance. We struggled to leave on our final morning and sat with our tea at the open doors of the boatshed. The little penguins that I thought we had missed finally made a few sounds from beneath the floorboards and we felt felt complete. So very grateful! A taonga/treasured spot.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Craig S.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very cool place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Kerianne H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great venue and welcoming host
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Delia C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic spot - bigger than it seems with lots of extras
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Michelle J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our family holiday at The Yard Master, it is in a beautiful waterfront peaceful location with lovely views. The house is rustic and interesting and had everything we needed. The boat house was an added bonus and a beautiful spot for evening swims, drinks and watching the sunset. Recommend beach shoes for swimming as the beach is rocky.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ron C.

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

A few days spent in Paradise

What an amazing place, will definately return when the time comes again. Superb location and a great stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Danielle L.

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

What a place!

Thank you so much to our host. Great location and stunning views. Everything we needed in a cool setting and great communication. So lucky to have had a late check out as well. Recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

David H.

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

Highly recommend

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Yardmaster. The power supply was more than enough to charge our devices. The boat shed was very special and great to have the use of kayaks etc. If you want a true kiwi Bach experience and an off grid break away. This is the place!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Denise S.

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

Fabulous location

What an idyllic setting! So quiet and peaceful...ideal place to relax and unwind. Had everything we needed and only 10mins from grocery store, cafe and restaurants in Tryphenna. Suited our family of 3 couples perfectly. My only suggestion would be it would be great to have curtains in the big bedroom to keep out the light. Would be more than happy to stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Hannah M.

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

Excellent stay

Thank you for having us stay at the Yard Master. Fantastic property with lots of history and interesting things to look at. Perfect base for a stay at Great Barrier Island. Private house with out any one else around. We felt we could just do what we wanted and live as we do at home, while enjoying an amazing view. Anything we needed to know was in the welcome book, which was an interesting read in regards to the house itself. Our kids loved it there, especially as they are used to off grid living and enjoyed candlelight card games in the evening after a meal at the pub not far from the house. Thank you both for having us. We would absolutely love to stay again and will recommend. Great value for money.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Wonderful stay

We were very happy with the accommodation apart from being locked out at the beginning. The bird life, sea views and sun sets were amazing. The shower, beds, kitchen, bathroom were all quite basic but sufficient. Loved the history of the house. Thank you
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022
Verified review

8/10 Good

Kathryn E.

Liked: Check-in, location

Nice back in time stay

Gas bottles both empty but sorted straight away. These things happen. Awesome spot in a good old N Z Bach.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Vanitha E.

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

Amazing stay at the Yardmasters

The bach was in an amazing part of Great barrier island and my husband and I loved it heaps! We'll definitely be back! :)
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ryan d.

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

Wonderful Place to Stay

Stayed for two nights in July. The hosts were very receptive and the property was great!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jazmine E.

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

Good spot

Boat shed is great. property is in a great spot, stunning views. always a pleasure stay here
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Harley N.

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

Amazing time away

The place called the yardmaster was nothing but amazing with so much history behind it. Very nice and quiet with amazing views with everything you could ask for. Outstanding service. Friendly neighbourhood. Met amazing people and will definitely be going back there soon. Memory's for life. Highly recommend staying here to anyone. See you soon great barrier. Thank you.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mitch G.

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

Great spot!

Such an amazing location, surrounded by native bush with stunning views. Wish we could have stayed longer.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Mona J.

Liked: Check-in, communication, listing accuracy

A good place for a quiet get away

We enjoyed our stay, though there are some things that could maybe be made more clear in the listing. Schooner Bay is pretty at high tide, but rocky and not suitable for swimming. The fishing tackle available was not suitable for shore fishing. We didn't find any walks locally, so ended up driving each day. There was minimal phone reception at schooner bay (Spark or Vodafone). The bach is basic. Beds were clean and comfortable. Lighting is 12v and dim, so bring several really good torches. The kitchenware wasn't very clean and most crockery and utensils required washing before we could use them. They're was barely any washing up liquid or toilet paper provided, we had our own, but that is the sort of thing that would be helpful to state in the listing. The toilet is in a separate building, just three steps away, but not ideal given the pouring rain we had, for nighttime trips to the loo. The toiletroom was full of caterpillars and slugs. Lots were squashed under the mat, so that had obviously not been moved for cleaning. Overall an interesting bach, but not one I would recommend for a family wanting to explore the island.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ben C.

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

Outstanding location. Awesome layout. Wondrous natural spectacle. Truly adventurous place.

Wonderful.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Alana P.

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

Absolutely will be back!

Great communication with the property manager and such an easy check in and check out process. The house was clean and tidy. We made the most of the boat shed, smoker and kayaks available. We had such an incredible trip and will certainly return to this property! Highly highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Simon W.

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

Stay by the beach

This property is spacious and comfortable. The kitchen is well equipped and the pantry is well stocked. It is clean and has fantastic view of the ocean.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022