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Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront haven - Piwakawaka Retreat

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A cozy room with a cushioned bench facing a large window overlooking a lake and mountains.
Terrace/patio
On the beach
Exterior detail
A living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a view of a lake and mountains.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6120 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View in a map
Wainui, Canterbury
  • Place, Wainui Banks Peninsula
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Akaroa Museum
    ‪30 min drive‬
  • Place, Akaroa Lighthouse
    ‪35 min drive‬

Room options

Similar properties

Front of property
Akaroa Waterfront Motels
Akaroa
  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Laundry room
  • Housekeeping
4.6 out of 5, Wonderful, 574 reviews
The price is €84
includes taxes & fees
13 Jul - 14 Jul
Akaroa Waterfront Motels

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront haven - Piwakawaka Retreat

Our Paradise – Pīwakawaka Retreat

Step into a world where sparkling Akaroa Harbour is just steps away. Pīwakawaka Retreat is a sun-drenched haven where everyday worries drift away. Many of our guests return again and again.

Our waterfront sanctuary blends relaxation and adventure: explore rock pools, swim at the sandy beach, fish from the wharf, take a boat out, or simply unwind on the deck as the sun sets. On lucky days, you might even spot Hector’s dolphins. Surrounded by birdlife, rural landscapes, and the sea, there are plenty of walks and hidden spots to explore right from your doorstep.

Perched above Banks Peninsula and overlooking Akaroa Harbour, Wainui is peaceful and secluded yet close to everything:

* 75 minutes from Christchurch
* 25 minutes from Akaroa
* 15 minutes from the nearest store and restaurant at Duvauchelle

The boat ramp is just 50m from the cottage, a wharf for fishing is 200m away, and Wainui’s main sandy beach with summer pontoon is about 200m in the other direction. Low-tide rock pools, coastal tracks, and nearby bays offer endless exploring — all set against a backdrop of native bush, and ocean views.



Space & Comfort

Inside, a sunny open-plan living area opens to a spacious deck with ever-changing harbour views. For cooler evenings, a heat pump and crackling log burner create a warm, cosy atmosphere. Settle in with a book, board game, or movie on the Wi-Fi-connected smart TV.

Bedrooms:

* King room with electric blanket
* Queen room with electric blanket
* Bunk room (2 single bunks)

Fresh sheets and towels are provided for two guests as standard. Additional bedding and towels can be arranged for extra guests.



Good to Know

Layout: Stairs to the entrance, and internal stairs between the living area and bedrooms.
Toilet: Toilet: In the style of a classic Kiwi bach, the toilet is in its own private and separate room, just outside the main bathroom door. It’s undercover and only a single step away but you do need to exit the back door and step to the left (undercover but open).
Toddlers: Deck has glass balustrades and a safety gate, but the layout may not be ideal for very young, mobile children. Please enquire if unsure.
Extras: Wi-Fi, smart TV (Netflix/Chromecast), CDs, games, and books.



Whether exploring Banks Peninsula or watching the light shift over Purple Peak, Pīwakawaka Retreat is the perfect place to slow down, connect with nature, and soak in the beauty of Akaroa Harbour — a sanctuary for the soul.
During your stay at this holiday home, you'll be close to Wainui Banks Peninsula. Enjoy features like laundry facilities. Free WiFi and a kitchen are available in the holiday home.
  • Air-conditioned home with kitchen, washing machine and fireplace
  • Free Wi-Fi (speed: 100+ Mbps (good for 1–2 people or up to 6 devices))
  • Amenities include laundry facilities
  • On-site recreation includes a playground
  • Steps from Wainui Banks Peninsula and 12 minutes by car from Duvauchelle Showgrounds
As a guest of Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront haven - Piwakawaka Retreat, you'll find barbecue grills, a garden, and laundry facilities. The front desk is open around the clock.

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Kitchen island
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

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.
  • 7 steps to reach entrance
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Limited housekeeping
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • Near the bay
  • Near the ocean
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Bicycle parking
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector or gas appliances (host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Bicycle parking
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Garden
  • Recycling
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Unit size: 1,292 square feet
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Stairs and balcony not safe for very young kids

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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 indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
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
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, which will enable you to manage your booking.

Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront haven - Piwakawaka Retreat Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 60 out of 70 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 70 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 70 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 70 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 70 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Staff & service

4.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The view was lovely and host was very welcoming and great with communication
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Glenn H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome bach with gteat views, nothing to complain about, will definitely book again.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

D R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful spot, amazing views , a really chilled house to relax in. Will be back .
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rebekah G.

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

Great stay

Had a wonderful time again- thank you.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had the loveliest time at Piwakawaka. The views are amazing, the house has everything you need and is nice and clean. The hosts were good at communicating. Thank you so much. My daughter over from Scotland thought it was awesome
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura G.

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

Lovely Stay

We really enjoyed staying at this bach. Beautiful views and a well equipped kitchen. We will definitely be back ☺️
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ciaran F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful house making the most of the glorious view with the deck and perfectly laid out living area, filled with light from all the windows. Able to be cosy even on the cold days.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nortessa M.

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

Lovely, peaceful, nostalgic stay

We loved this property, it had a beautiful view, the home felt comfortable and warm, we loved all the personal touches and the music!We are already planning another stay in the future. Thanks Sarah!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aaron R.

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

Lovely Bach

Great harbour views from a typical kiwi bach. Lovely stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dianne P.

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

Good stay

The bach had a nice feel about it… lovely view of the sea… master bed very comfortable.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lili W.

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

Perfect!

We loved our stay here. Great amenities, stunning view and very peaceful. We will be back!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cora T.

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

Perfect Get Away

This is the second stay this year It is Such a perfect place to chill and to let time expand. A Beautiful outlook … The Accommodation is very welcoming and family orientated for a relaxing stay where entertainment and gatherings take place. Very happy with our stay… and will definitely return again.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cora T.

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

Fantastic

Loved the location and the home was very homely and welcoming
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

amaia g.

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

cozy

cozy place, lovely waking up to the sounds of the water! a great place if you ever need a quiet and relaxing getaway
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason G.

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

Paradise!

Our third time staying at this wonderful home. It just has the most relaxing vibe. Had the fire going & enjoyed a peaceful couple of days with those incredible sea views. Love this holiday home!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason G.

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

Cosy home away from home

Our second stay at this fabulous home, this time in colder weather so we got to enjoy the logburner fire. This home makes you feel relaxed as soon as you walk in, the comfy open plan living space & magnificent views out to the water & bays. Loved our stay thanks 🙏
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Margaret R.

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

Absolutely fantastic weekend

Fantastic weekend in what was our family bach, built by my father.After approx 60 yrs, its still as i remembered, i was 10 when place sold
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tina-marie C.

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

Waters edge

Stunning views, quiet and relaxing. Had everything you need and more. Can’t wait to return!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael E.

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

Perfect

This was the perfect place for a relaxing week. Extremely well equipped ( for the kitchen we needn't have brought anything !) , very comfortable sofas, beautiful outlook and easy access to the sea and walks. Beds excellent and even a seaview from the main bedroom. Bliss! Thank you so much Sarah !!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason G.

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

Fabulous house!

We loved our stay here, the house is so lovely and relaxing, perfect for lazing about & reading a book. Beds were super comfy. There are lots of seats on the balcony to look out at the incredible views across the bays. A quick drive to Duvauchelle for a drink, or on to Akaroa for shopping & exploring. The host was great with communication. Highly recommend this home, in fact I’m planning to go go back! Thanks Sarah for a lovely few days in your beautiful holiday home.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Maureen M.

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

Wonderful Wainui

Beautiful outlook of a well equipped bach. Being 30 minutes out of Akaroa we appreciated the well stocked kitchen. However, when we checked out at 10am we took our rubbish to Barry's Bay transfer station only to discover it doesn't open until midday which left us a bit stuck, it would be helpful for this to be highlighted. Overall we had a lovely few days in Wainui.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

6/10 Okay

Dave N.

Liked: Check-in, communication

Disappointed

Property has a great view in an ok location but is tired. Shower was not clean on arrival but cleaner came back and attempted to clean but needed exit mould. We wiped food off surfaces in kitchen, bench, table and chairs, bedrooms needed a good vacuum. Stains on sheets in bunk room. House is let down by lack of maintenance and poor cleaner.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Michelle D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Little things

I planned to read, relax and take a short break from my demanding business. The verandah , telescope and the view were my reasons for choosing this Bach. The view was wonderful, I did not manage to focus the lens on the telescope no matter what I did so this I accept as possibly my fault but the verandah lined with broken shredded Ratan furniture really affected the atmosphere. Instead of being welcoming and comfortable it was the opposite. Even sitting in one of the useable chairs the verandah lost its appeal -it felt neglected.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shanaz N.

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

Away from all the hussle

Bit of a drive but when we got here it’s amazing Everything we expected Love to come back
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rene B.

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

Beautiful property overlooking the bay.

Spacious house with ample room for us all. The house's location was great, my kids could walk to the beach to go swim. I had a lazy afternoon on the porch, watching the sunset on the hills over the bay with the waves rolling onto the rocks below. Had an amazing time!! Will definitely recommend it to anyone who needs to get away from the hustle of every day life.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022