Golden Bay Hideaway

Accommodation

  • Which holiday home is right for me?

    Couples:
    House Truck, Tiny Greenie and Little Greenie will suit a relationship-nurture holiday retreat - especially where seclusion and peaceful surroundings are priorities.

    Families:
    Kiwi Greenie offers an eco-retreat with total comfort for everyone (sleeps up to four), better suited for children. Tiny Greenie and House Truck sleep four in a small space with the beds on mezzanine platforms.

    Hippie House is suitable accommodation for families who wish to find a holiday home to let the days drift by. Sleeps up to four.

  • What are the bedding arrangements in the various houses?

    All our prices are based on two people sharing a bed. All bed linen and towels are provided. Soaps and detergents are provided.

    Kiwi Greenie: Main bed is a super king which can be separated into two singles if previously arranged ($30 charge). The other bed is a queen double in the living area.

    Little Greenie: Main bed is a super king which can be separated into two singles if previously arranged ($30 charge).

    Tiny Greenie and House Truck: Two private queen size beds, one at each end, access by stairs/ladder. Please note, due to falling hazard please take care with small children, one bed has a safety net.

    Hippie House: Main bed is a super king. Second room has a queen bed.

    NB: Extra guests can be accommodated with a mattress on the floor in some cases. One off charge for an extra mattress/bedding is $30. Extra guests are $30 per night per person

  • What is your policy on children and babies?

    Our policy regarding wee darlings is:

    • Children sleeping in normal beds: the usual $30 per night applies as extra guests.

    • Under 6 months with own bedding there is no charge.

    • Over 6 months:
      Our experience has shown that as soon as kids are crawling our cleaning services increase compared with adults, particularly with the large window areas we have in the houses. They use the same linen and hot water and that is why we apply the fee.

    -If you bring your own cot and bedding there will be a one off $30 cleaning fee

    -If we supply cot and bedding the normal rate of $30 per night per extra person applies

  • Will I survive a composting toilet experience?

    The Greenies and the House Truck are truly unique places to stay. Part of that experience is the composting toilets.

    Many guests find staying with us offers them their first experience with a composting toilet.

    This may bring about many questions and sometimes a little concern for the unknown, or a different way to 'normal'.

    The composting toilet is very easy to use - simply do what you need to do, followed by a small amount of sawdust - close the lid and you're done! In Kiwi Greenie and Little Greenie we are trialing using LESS sawdust so we will put a light coverage of sawdust in the toilet at the changeover.
    The beauty of the composting toilet is you can also put all of your food wastes in it to compost down as well. They are a big part of the environmental philosophy at the Hideaway. Tampons are OK in the compost system but sanitary pads and nappies must go in the rubbish.

    Read the feedback left by guests about the composting toilet:

    "Very impressed with toilet - I will be putting one in our new house - loved it, can't wait to recommend it!"

    "Even changed my mind about composting toilets - it's completely odourless - bravo!"

  • Can I bring pets?

    We have a no dog/cat policy due to past experiences. We border the Abel Tasman National Park and the weka population is just rebounding after being hunted by dogs.
    Sorry for this.

  • What time is check-in and check-out?

    You can arrive any time after 3pm, just push the intercom to let us know you've arrived. If we are busy and don't answer (or if it is late in evening) just make your way up to your designated house - it will be open and ready for you. Please read the house manual, all information is in there.
    If you wish to check in earlier than 3pm, please get in contact as this can often be arranged.

    On the day of departure please leave by 10am or as arranged beforehand.
    If you leave EARLY, please txt us on 021 242 2714 as this will help us with our planning for the day.

  • Can we have a late check-out?

    Yes you can upon request. $40 late check-out fee and at the discretion of our managers, you can ask them about a late check out when you check in. Check out would then be around 12 noon.

  • How should I prepare for my stay at Golden Bay Hideaway?

    Here's a few important things to consider for your stay:

    NB: our prices are based on 2 people sharing a bed, if you require an additional bed made up please contact us directly ($30 charge applies).

    Leave your work behind
    We don't provide wifi to interrupt your chill (though there is good mobile coverage). In the Greenie houses the reception can be compromised by the iron cladding, the signal is stronger outside.

    Stock up
    The closest supermarket is in Tākaka, you may want to stock up before you get here as you may never want to leave! The closest restaurants and cafés are in Pōhara, 15 min drive back toward Tākaka, where there is also a dairy which sells a range of food. We supply all linen, tea, (Raglan Roast) plunger coffee, milk powder, sugar, olive oil, salt/pepper, eco hair/body wash.

    Pure water
    Our water is pure and natural and good to drink, no need to bring plastic bottled water with you.

    Make the most of your time
    You can arrive any time after 3pm and we advise you to get here early as the drive from Nelson can be challenging in the dark.

    Plan your days
    There's lots to do and you may wish to look at some of these local recommendations.

    Find your way
    Follow these directions to get to Golden Bay Hideaway from Tākaka, Golden Bay:

    • It's approximately 24km from Tākaka to Golden Bay Hideaway (25 minutes drive).
    • In Tākaka turn right after the supermarket into Motupipi Street.
    • Turn right at the end of the road and follow scenic Abel Tasman Drive toward Pohara, Abel Tasman National Park and Tōtaranui.
    • Travel 22km through the settlements of Pōhara, Ligar Bay and Tata Beach.
    • Travel through Wainui until you come to McShane Road on your left.
    • Take the McShane Rd turnoff - DO NOT go up the gravel road and over the hill to Tōtaranui.
    • Travel 2.2km along McShane Rd to Golden Bay Hideaway on your right.
    • This link to Google Maps might also be helpful: Google Maps

    When you get to our property push the intercom button on the driveway by the big green shed to talk to us. Should it be late or we are not available just follow the signs to your designated home. The house will be ready for you, make yourself at home and read the house manual, all the info is in there. If you require change for the laundry or have any questions just give us a call, we live on site and are here if you need us, otherwise we will leave you to your privacy.

    Enjoy your stay
    On the day of departure please leave by 10am or as arranged. If you go early give us a text on 021 242 2714, this helps with our planning for the day.

    Oh and don't forget to bring your favoured beverage to enjoy in the hot bath! 🍾 🛀

Surrounds and Activities

  • How private are the holiday homes?

    Each house is extremely private and surrounded by native bush with views over Wainui Bay.

  • What day walks can we do from the property?

    Close by we have short tracks like the Wainui Falls track, the Grove Scenic Reserve, Rawhiti Cave, Taupo Point and many tracks around Tōtaranui.
    There are longer tracks like the Heaphy Track and Abel Tasman Coastal Track.

    Abel Tasman National Park - Northern Loop Day Walk;
    Golden Bay Hideaway offers a service to drop guests off in Tōtaranui in the morning using your car for $50. Your car is returned to our place at 220 McShane and you can walk the northern loop (approx 5 hours) back to your vehicle. Please inquire with managers to arrange. This is for guests only.
    If you wish to enjoy a guided trip in the National Park with food, pickups and accommodation provided please see www.abeltasmanguides.co.nz.
    NB: we do not make arrangements for food parcels or supply. On The Spot Pōhara Store (03 5259591) may be be able to arrange basic grocery supplies and delivery to your unit on your arrival day.

  • Can we go kayaking or paddle-boarding and where can we hire equipment?

    Yes, please contact Golden Bay Kayaks who are located at Tata Beach, 10 minutes drive away.

  • How far away is the beach?

    The estuary and DoC carpark is approx 1km away (a 10-15min walk) and Wainui beach is another easy 10min walk through native bush. The start of the Abel Tasman Track is at the Wainui carpark.

  • Where are the nearest shops?

    The closest restaurants and cafes are in Pōhara, 15 minutes drive toward Tākaka, where there is also a mini supermarket which sells a range of food. The closest supermarket is in Tākaka, you may want to stock up before you get here.

  • What are the local dining out options?

    Some options are:

    Wainui Bay:

    • Totos Cafe and Gallery - 10min from Golden Bay Hideaway. Opening days/hours vary, wood fired pizzas and beers.

    Pōhara:

    • Ratanui Lodge - fancy dining and cocktails
    • Molly B's - family friendly bar and cafe, great service and food, live music on summer weekends
    • Al'Forno Pizza - possibly the best in NZ or Italy

    Tākaka (all recommended):

    • Roots Bar - best burgers on the planet, groovy Golden bay vibe
    • The Dangerous Kitchen - pizzas and more
    • The Wholemeal Café - brekkie and lunch fav
    • O'Sha - Thai restaurant
    • Delish - deli/cafe

    Beyond:

    • The Mussel Inn - just famous, rightly so!
    • M.A.D. Cafe - Collingwood
    • Courthouse Cafe - Collingwood

Getting Here and Transport

  • Flying and rental cars?

    Tākaka airport is approximately 35kms away (40 minutes by car). Golden Bay Air offer stunning scenic flights from Wellington across the Marlborough Sounds, D'Urville Island and the Abel Tasman National Park. They also have hire cars available, http://www.goldenbayair.co.nz/.

    Nelson airport is approximately 109kms away (2 hours by car). Hire cars are available.

    See our How to Find Us page for more details.

  • Can we park our car with you while we walk the Abel Tasman track?

    Yes - free for guests.

Facilities

  • Are there any internet facilities available?

    There is no fixed line broadband or wifi. However we have good cell phone coverage with 3G/4G mobile broadband for those with the necessary devices.

  • Is there mobile phone coverage?

    Yes, we have good mobile phone coverage. Inside the Greenies reception can be compromised with the iron cladding, the signal will be stronger outside.

  • What kitchen facilities are available?

    Each house has full kitchen facilities, oven and hob, excluding dishwasher and microwave.
    There is a hotplate gas BBQ outside
    We supply some complimentary plunger coffee, tea, milk powder, sugar, salt/pepper, and olive oil.

  • Do you have laundry facilities?

    Yes, a shared, coin-operated ($6, detergent supplied) washing machine and dryer. Clotheslines available at the big shed, or at your house.

  • Is the water safe for drinking?

    Yes.

  • Can I charge my EV on site?

    Sorry, no, there can be ABSOLUTELY NO CHARGING in the Greenies. They run off a solar system and batteries, this would crash our system. There are charging stations in Tākaka (30 min drive away). We are working through a solution for the future.

Accessibility

  • How accessible are the homes for wheelchairs?

    Our latest holiday home Kiwi Greenie is build with accessibility in mind. Not only is wheelchair access a priority but we've also ensured there is enough space for caregivers.

Bookings and Policy

  • What is your accommodation booking and cancellation policy?

    In these uncertain times it can be hard to make a plan for the future. We reckon taking a break shouldn't be a stressful experience. So we're making it easy for you to have no worries with our simple cancellation policy.

    • If your cancellation is LESS than or equal to 40 days prior to your stay and we CAN fill the vacancy we will refund your payment after deducting a $50 admin fee.

    • If we CAN'T fill your vacancy your payment is non-refundable.

    • If your cancellation is LONGER than 40 days prior to your stay, we will refund your payment after deducting a $50 admin fee.

  • How can I book accommodation?

    Please look at our availability calendars for all accommodation options - Accommodation Availability

  • Do you do one night stays?

    No, unfortunately it is not economic for us to offer one night stays. We highly recommend you come for two nights anyway as it's a decent drive to get here and you won't want to leave!

    No doubt you'll be tempted to contact us when you see a one-night available on our booking calendar. Even under these circumstances we will not take your booking. Save us all the time and don't bother emailing or calling to check.

  • What is the deal with the $50 cleaning fee?

    We charge a one-off $50 cleaning fee for your entire booking. We don't offer a daily cleaning service. Because our fee is just once for your stay it means that the longer you stay the lower the nightly rate.

    The cleaning fee goes towards the costs involved in changing over the room, consumables, laundry, running a vehicle etc. It doesn’t cover it completely but is closer to the honest cost of the cleaning/changeover fee. The only variation is if we have to make up two beds, which is a one-off cost.

    The cleaning fee is also a mechanism we use for pricing that means the longer people stay the cheaper the overall rate becomes. Other providers may have a lower cleaning fee but their tariff is similar and therefore the guest doesn’t benefit from staying longer.

    We deter people from using both beds, unless they’ve paid for extra guests, because if the second bed is used/unmade we still need to wash the mattress protector, pillow protectors and the bed cover (as we can only assume it was slept in), and this is more work than it would be to just wash the regular linen.

    Be aware that the cleaning fee is often hidden on third-party booking websites, not shown until you're at the checkout. You're better off booking direct with us - it's a bit cheaper too!

  • Why should I book direct with Golden Bay Hideaway?

    Our accommodation can be found and booked on third-party websites (such as Airbnb and Booking.com) where it can "appear" less expensive. These websites often hide additional fees which you won't find until you're sorting payment.

    In fact it's always 25% less expensive to book direct with us.

    Also their booking cancellation policies may differ for ours.

  • How do I use the "Booking Widget" to make an online booking?

    You use the "Booking Widget" to make an online booking. To get started you select your dates on the calendar and then you can enter the number of guests and your email address. Then after submitting the form you can see your total price and enter your credit card details to immediately complete your booking. Finally a confirmation email will be sent to your email.

    Calendar

    You can use the calendar to find dates that are available and suit you.

    • Today's date is marked with a circle.
    • Dates that are not available for booking are crossed out. Dates that are available are highlighted with colour.
    • Single night stays are not available. Minimum stay is two nights.
    • Use the buttons at the top of the calendar to move between months.

    Selecting Dates

    Select the day you'd like to arrive by clicking or tapping on the calendar date. You'll see it recorded in the form below the calendar.
    Select the day you'd like to depart by clicking or tapping on the calendar date. Again, you'll see it recorded in the form below the calendar.
    Once you've selected valid dates you'll see the form below the calendar display more fields that allow you to complete your booking.

    Completing Your Booking

    Enter all relevant details in the form and submit by selecting the button at the bottom of the booking form. Please ensure your email address is correct.
    A secure checkout page will load and allow you to see your total payment and enter your credit card information.
    Submit the secure checkout form to complete the booking process.

    What's Next?

    A confirmation will show to indicate that Golden Bay Hideaway has received your booking. A confirmation of your booking will be delivered to your email address.

  • What if I'm having issues with the online booking process?

    Our intention is for the online booking process to be as simple and accessible as possible for all customers. However there is potential for some customers to encounter issues. Here are some considerations and tips in case you run into trouble.

    Some older browser software and devices may not work correctly with our booking widget. If you run into problems with the booking process, try updating your browser and device operating system to the latest possible versions.

    If you a presented with an error message then please note down the error description or take a screenshot. Please pass this along to us and our tech team can assist with fixing any issues for future customers.

    If all else fails then you can always contact us with details of your booking using our contact form at:

    https://goldenbayhideaway.co.nz/contact

    Or you can email us directly at:

    [email protected]

    Thanks for your patience.

User Guide

  • How do I effectively use the tilt/slide doors in Little Greenie?

    The sliding doors you'll find in the Little Greenie are a marvel of engineering and insulation, but they are unusual and can be a challenge to operate. In this video Lawrence gives you a run down on how it's done.

    How to Open the Sliding Doors

    To open the door, turn the handle clockwise (from pointing upward) to the horizontal position (pointing to the right). This puts the door into "ventilation" mode where the top of the door tilts inwards slightly allowing air flow.

    To fully slide open the door, turn the handle clockwise until the handle points down, then pull the handle toward yourself. The bottom of the door will release and drop inward freeing the door to slide. Now use the smaller handle to pull the door to the right and slide it open.

    How to Close the Sliding Doors

    To close the sliding door, turn the handle counter-clockwise to horizontal (pointing to the right) and pull the door closed. The door is heavy and and some momentum will assist with the door correctly seating back into place. When done correctly the bottom of the door will drop back into place, tilting the door inward, and leaving the top slightly open in "ventilation" mode.

    To fully close the door, turn the handle gently upward (to point straight up) and the door will automatically closed and seal.

    If you've any problems then please let us know and we'll be happy to assist.