Verified
10/10 Excellent
Nikhil F.
18 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Extended Family Vacation
Nikhil F.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025
Entire home
Whananaki Beach Retreat
Photo gallery for Whananaki Beach Retreat
Escape to MINI WHANANAKI, a classic kiwi bach with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Enjoy beautiful views of the water from floor-to-ceiling glass windows and unwind in the outdoor Courtyard with BBQ area. With plenty of room for activities on the half-acre site, this architecturally designed holiday home is perfect for friends and families.
Reviews
9.89.8 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
6 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 16250 sq m
Popular amenities
- Kitchen
- Washing machine
- Free Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning
- Outdoor space
Add dates for prices
About this property
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!
Property amenities
Beach
- On the beach
- Beach loungers
Pool/Spa
- Hot tub
Internet
- Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
- Car required
- Wheelchair-accessible parking available
Kitchen
- Blender
- Coffee grinder
- Coffee/tea maker
- Cookware, dishware, and utensils
- Dishwasher
- Electric kettle
- Hob
- Ice maker
- Kitchen island
- Kitchenette
- Microwave
- Oven
- Paper towels
- Refrigerator
- Spices
- 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.
- Accessible parking space
- Area rugs in public areas
- Hardwood flooring in public areas
- No lift
- Single level property
- Well-lit path to entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible parking
- Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
- Smoke-free property
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
- Snorkelling 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
- At least 80% lighting from LEDs
- Double-glazed windows
- Eco-friendly toiletries
- Garden
- Grey water recycling system
- Recycling
- 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 to 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 rubbish
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
Pets not allowed
Note from host: Outside dogs only
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
Some water is reused through a grey water recycling system
Host has indicated that 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 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 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
A car is required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Located in Whananaki, this holiday home is on the beach. Dive Tutukaka and Tutukaka Marina are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Sandy Bay and Motutohe Island. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and mountain biking. Visit our Whananaki travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Whananaki
Whananaki North, Whananaki
What's nearby
Sandy Bay2 min drive - 1.1 km
Town Basin Marina36 min drive - 53.7 km
Paihia Beach58 min drive - 89.2 km
Paihia Wharf58 min drive - 89.5 km- Ruakaka Beach59 min drive - 90.4 km
Getting around
- Whangarei (WRE)53 min drive
Restaurants
- Heaven's Brewery26 min drive
- Manaia Espresso44 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Whananaki Beach Retreat pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Whananaki Beach Retreat?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Whananaki Beach Retreat?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Whananaki Beach Retreat?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Whananaki Beach Retreat located?
Nestled on the beach, this Whananaki holiday home is 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from Sandy Bay and 2.1 mi (3.3 km) from Motutohe Island. Moureeses Bay is 3.3 mi (5.3 km) away.
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Whananaki Beach Retreat 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 windowRating 10 - Excellent. 42 out of 48 reviews
10 - Excellent
42
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 48 reviews
8 - Good
6
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 48 reviews
6 - Okay
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Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 48 reviews
4 - Poor
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Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 48 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.8
Cleanliness
10
Location
Reviews
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Sonia D.
9 Nov 2023
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.
Sonia D.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified
8/10 Good
Michelle W.
22 Apr 2024
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.
Michelle W.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Irwn R.
1 Apr 2024
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!
Irwn R.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
ngaire H.
16 Mar 2025
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.
ngaire H.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Corey J.
23 Mar 2023
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.
Corey J.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Wick N.
2 Apr 2023
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.
Wick N.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified
8/10 Good
Molly A.
16 Jan 2023
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!
Molly A.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Wick N.
29 Nov 2022
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.
Wick N.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Wick N.
19 June 2022
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!
Wick N.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Wick N.
29 May 2022
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.
Wick N.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Rochelle J.
15 Feb 2022
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.
Rochelle J.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2022
Verified
8/10 Good
Wick N.
23 May 2021
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!!!
Wick N.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Verified
8/10 Good
john c.
9 May 2021
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
john c.
Stayed 11 nights in Apr 2021
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Sue K.
25 Feb 2021
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. 🥂
Sue K.
Verified
8/10 Good
Kirin C.
13 Feb 2021
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!
Kirin C.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2021
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Ania M.
24 Jan 2021
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.
Ania M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Emie L.
13 Jan 2021
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.
Emie L.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2020
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Julie K.
22 Dec 2020
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.
Julie K.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Wick N.
30 Nov 2020
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!
Wick N.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Robyn D.
1 Feb 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Group getaway
A fantastic house for a group of adults to unwind, hike, fish and swim.
Robyn D.
Stayed 9 nights in Jan 2020
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Wick N.
15 Oct 2019
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!
Wick N.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Catherine B.
13 May 2019
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.
Catherine B.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2019
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Wick N.
6 May 2019
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!!
Wick N.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Vesa X.
23 Mar 2019
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.
Vesa X.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2019