The Cottage at Wai Rua, west of Whangarei, is approximately 18 minutes drive from Kamo via Pipiwai Road. It is a hidden gem with amazing rural views, including massive volcanic rocks, lakes and ponds, set in a beautiful tranquil garden. It can be a getaway retreat or stopover. Don't be put off by the gravel road because it is certainly worth it when you reach us. There is no public transport near us and the closest airport is Whangarei but we do not provide any shuttle service, all guests must provide their own transport. Check in is anytime after 2.00 p.m and there is no formal check in process.

Allan and Elaine purchased Wai Rua in 2015, having been instantly impressed with both the spirituality of the location and the unique diversity in the landscape. Allan is a true-blue kiwi, a practical, ‘no.8 wire’ man of the land and sea, Allan’s passion for the New Zealand natural environment began at a very young age in the North West of the South Island, with hunting, fishing, sailing and farming running in his blood. Elaine, however, has lived in Whangarei/Northland most of her life, and knows the community and the land intimately. Her connection with Wai Rua and the surrounding area is deep and profound, and her desire is simply to bring more people in to share this special place. With a sympathetic eye for preserving Wai Rua’s beauty, Elaine and Allan have built upon the existing landscaping to create a fine natural retreat locations. We love meeting people from all walks of life and being able to provide whatever the experience might be that their guests are wanting. Breakfast foods are all inclusive, which are mostly home grown or made and can suit anyone's' needs. We both love gardening and have collected some interesting antiques which we are keen to show and discuss.

This property is twenty minutes from the local township of Kamo, where there are plenty of lovely cafes and eateries. The only shop within 3 kilometers is a local cafe which provides great coffee and good value meals. We also live about forty minutes away from the east coast, where you can do tours of the Poor Knights Islands which is a lovely marine reserve. The Bay of Islands is only one hour's drive away where there are many different attractions. Waitangi is where one can learn about the history of NZ. We live in the midst of farm lands which are dairy, beef and sheep and have wonderful views from the cottage of these farms. There are farm lanes on our eighty acres which are great for walking or cycling on. We also live nearby to many different walks/cycle tracks in the Whangarei district and the township of Whangarei is only a thirty minute drive to wonderful cafes and restaurants.