Entire home

Gorgeous Character Bach

Photo gallery for Gorgeous Character Bach

A sunset over the ocean with waves approaching the shore. - Gorgeous Character Bach (Punakaiki)
A cozy room with a bed, a chair, a small table, and a window with curtains. - Gorgeous Character Bach (Punakaiki)
A yellow door leading to a beach path with a view of the ocean and some vegetation. - Gorgeous Character Bach (Punakaiki)
A coastal house with a turquoise roof, surrounded by dense greenery and a rocky shoreline. - Gorgeous Character Bach (Punakaiki)
A small, two-story house with a blue exterior and yellow trim. It has a wooden deck and a fenced area with a chair. - Gorgeous Character Bach (Punakaiki)
Gorgeous Character Bach provides a garden and more. Guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroom100 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Add dates for prices

About this property

Gorgeous Character Bach

  • Built by two brothers in 1924 and lovingly restored by the present owners, this bach boasts charisma and character. Located on a private section, sheltering right behind the sea wall and within minutes of the amazing Pancake rocks and the stunning Paparoa National Park, this bach enjoys an ideal location. Tasfefully decorated with plenty of iconic Kiwiana, this is the ultimate Kiwi holiday experience. Recently renovated it doesn't lack modern day comforts while maintaining an air of history, you will feel right at home. An abundance of activities such as kayaking, surfing, swimming, horse trekking and stand up paddle boarding await only a few minutes walk away.

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Porch/lanai

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • Up to 25 kg per pet

Suitability/Accessibility

  • No lift
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Step to reach entrance
  • Thin carpet in public areas
  • Smoke-free property

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

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 1,076 square feet

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 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

Rules

No parties No loud music after 10PM
Please leave the property as you‘d like to find it. Turn off heaters upon departure.
Be responsible with your rubbish, clean recycling only. Turn off heater and lights

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
1 total (up to 25 kg per pet)
Note from host: Please enquire. Strictly non shedding dogs.

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
Long-term renters welcome
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

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Punakaiki is home to this holiday home. Mitchell’s Gully Gold Mine and Mitchells Gully Gold Mine are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Paparoa National Park and Punakaiki Beach. Visit our Punakaiki travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Punakaiki
Map
Punakaiki, West Coast

What's nearby

  • A coastal cliff with a narrow passage between two rock formations.
    Paparoa National Park
    1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • A calm river with a rocky shoreline, a bridge, and a forested mountain in the background.
    Pororari River Track
    7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • A coastal landscape with distinctive rock formations and a clear view of the ocean.
    Pancake Rocks
    7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Punakaiki Beach
    1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
    18 min walk - 1.6 km

Getting around

  • Westport (WSZ)
    60 min drive

Restaurants

  • Punakaiki Tavern
    4 min walk
  • OceanView Restaurant & Bar
    18 min walk
  • Pancake Rocks Cafe
    10 min walk
  • Punakaiki Beach Hut
    19 min walk
  • Jacobs
    18 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Gorgeous Character Bach pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 25 kg per pet.

How much is parking at Gorgeous Character Bach?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Gorgeous Character Bach?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Gorgeous Character Bach?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Gorgeous Character Bach located?

Situated in Punakaiki, this holiday home is steps away from Punakaiki Beach, Punakaiki Horse Treks and Paparoa National Park. Pancake Rocks and Pororari River Track are also within 10 minutes.

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Reviews

Gorgeous Character Bach Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.8

Cleanliness

10

Location

9.0

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 110 out of 120 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 120 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 120 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 120 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 120 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome location, and had everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A true Kiwi bach full of quirky character and charm in an excellent location for enjoying nature and local activities.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved this little bach! Ideal location and the bach itself was like a little time capsule
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent location. Very well equipped kitchen for preparing own meals. All the communications were very clear and very helpful to make the best of your stay. Loads of character. Most enjoyable.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a fabulous location walking distance to everything and an amazing beach for daily walks. Lovely linen and comfy beds. A bit cramped with two big dogs but they managed.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Batch getaway

Wonderful stay right on the beach walking distance to the pub with good food and wine
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect west coast Bach

The history and location are truly special
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect west coast batch experience. Kids had a blast exploring and a weka stole one of our pancakes. Great place to make memories.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thank you, we had a wonderful, relaxing stay. The bach was bright, cheery and warm, and had so much character. The setting is stunning, with limestone cliffs, the roaring sea and nikau groves. My favourite room was the sitting room with its funky retro vibe and the comfy sofa. We spent many hours there.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This was a great place to stay following finishing the Paparoa track. It was just as the photos showed, lots of great character in a beautiful part of the country. We would stay here again. Thanks so much.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Loved this property!

Exactly as advertised! Charming and comfortable. Great views. The entire experience here was perfect!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great bach

Amazing place directly behind the beach. So much to explore, both in- and outside. Had everything we needed and an awesome time!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect Kiwi Bach!

We had the best weekend staying at this delightful wee bach. It had everything you could possibly need and in such a beautiful location. Laying in bed at night and listening to the waves crashing just outside was so relaxing. We will be back!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Colourful and close to the pancake rocks

Colourful bach with history, that's close to the pancake rocks. Good communication from the owner and easy to book.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Pounding surf

Great to get back on the Coast and stay in a simple cosy bach. We had good weather so took advantage of the day walks and enjoyed the sound of the waves pounding on the rocks at night. A comfortable chair to read a book in would have topped it off (Hint ;).
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Very special

Charming property which feels more spacious inside than the photos may suggest. Memorabilia adds to the personal and unique atmosphere inside and the presence of board games was a real bonus! Incredible location right by the sea
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

Fabulous place right by the beach and a 10 walk to Pancake Rocks. The property feels ‘lived in’ without being tired or neglected. Felt privileged to have shared what is clearly someone’s family holiday home. A treat.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Amazing spot and cute batch!

We had a fabulous time here. Amazing reading the history of this 100yr old home. So many people have left their holiday memories in the guest book here. Super clean, cute, nostalgic and has everything you need. Loved it! 😍
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Enjoyed the bach

We only had one night but it was a fun experience for my family. My adult kids loved the history and vintage kiwi items. It was an experience to sleep so close to the ocean.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Delightful character bach

We were totally charmed by this quirky but clearly much-loved and well-cared for family bach, with a long history. Despite being cosily small, the kitchen is well-equipped and provided everything we needed for a comfortable night's stay. We enjoyed looking at the many curious collections of kiwiana and other memorabilia on display and reading entries in the visitor's book, which was started many decades ago. Would definitely return, if in the area again.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Quintessential kiwi bach

Charming kiwi bach full of character and amazing kiwiana. Loved being right on the beach...amazing sunsets! Very well equipped kitchen...perfect for our week long stay. Good shower. Plenty of games, puzzles and books to fill in a rainy day if needed. So many things to enjoy in and around Punakaiki...we especially loved visiting the Pancake Rocks several times (including sunset), Punakaiki Cavern (very cool, need a good torch), Truman Track (easy short walk) Pororari River Track/Inland Pack Track 3 hr loop walk (amazing scenery). Also plenty of great West Coast beaches to explore! Our family of four adults thoroughly enjoyed our time here, would definitely return 😊
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Authentic New Zealand Bach

This is having the authentic experience of a stay in a NZ Bach. Everything was in keeping. The sea was at war with the elements, the west coast drizzle was at it's best. Being able to go out and walk in the elements and then come back to a hot cuppa and a warm heater made it all complete. The bach is simplicity and yet appreciable. We had a much needed relax. Walking, exploring, playing cards. The Sunday markets at Fox River were worth the visit. Thankyou
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

6/10 Okay

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

Nice Spot

Communication about instructions for the stay were very slow. Didn't receive until nearly check in time. It would have been nice to have some milk in the fridge for a cuppa. Went to the pub and they had some thankfully. There was a note regarding milk, but because instructions were quite late we didn't get it before travelling to accommodation. Cute little cottage with quirky features. Location is good, close to the pub and a nice stroll along the beach. Comfortable beds. Bunks are very high and more ideal for kids than adults. Toilet system seemed a little blocked as it filled up with water? Thankfully went down after a while. Septic system may need to be looked at?
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was such a peaceful and beautiful place to stay. It was clean, neat and tidy and full of character and history.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely fantastic location, easy walk to the tavern, the beach and the pancake rocks. A very idylic and quiant little bach with a whole lot of history very warm and welcoming.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025