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Rock 'n Rata Cottage

Photo gallery for Rock 'n Rata Cottage

Cottage
downstairs dining and living
dining and kitchen showing upstairs bedroom
Exterior
wrap around deck

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View map
Clifton, Pohara Beach
  • Place, Pohara Beach
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Ligar Bay Beach
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Tata Beach
    ‪12 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Bathtub or shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Rock 'n Rata Cottage

Rock 'n Rata Cottage is on the 7 acre organic property of the historic Rocklands Homestead. Behind the cottage are mature citrus trees and guests may pick their own grapefruit for breakfast.

Well-equipped cottage, woody and warm. Log burner with firewood supplied. Most guests walk in the door and say how lovely it is.

The cottage has its own private driveway and is set against a backdrop of limestone outcrops, nikau palms and mature rata and totara trees. These and the huge pohutukawa and puriri trees behind the homestead attract many tuis, bellbirds and woodpigeons.

Cottage faces nor-west and gets all day sun. Rural and sea views across to the hills on the far side of Golden Bay. Very sheltered and private yet just 3 mins drive to Pohara Beach and 8 mins from Takaka township. Only a short drive further to Ligar Bay, Tata Beach and Wainui Bay. Less than a one hour drive and you'll be on Totaranui Beach or at the Awaroa Estuary where you can walk at low tide to Awaroa Beach.

Property is adjacent to the Grove Scenic Reserve, a rock and rata wonderland with a panoramic view of Golden Bay.

Rock 'n Rata Cottage is the perfect base for exploring the Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks. The property has the X-factor and guests are constantly wowed by the unique setting.
Special conditions:
Reduced rate for seven or more nights from April - mid December.

Two night stays generally not confirmed until a week before unless they fit with other bookings.

Pets allowed by prior arrangement

Smoking allowed outside only

Extras: Linen (Optional, NZ$50.00 per stay); NOTE: Under Kiwi bach tradition you are expected to: Clean the house and do the dishes before you leave.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Check sleeping arrangements. Stairguard available
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats (limit 1 total)
By prior arrangement
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Outdoors only
Linen is optional, NZ$50.00 per couple, per stay. No linen charge for a couple staying 7+ nights.
Bookings over the peak period from Dec 20 - Jan 31 must be back to back with other bookings.
Check-in between 3:00 and 6:30 pm unless by prior arrangement.

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
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
Property Registration Number Holiday cottage

About the area

Clifton

Clifton is home to this cottage. Onetahuti Bay Campsite and Te Anaroa Caves are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Abel Tasman National Park and Kahurangi National Park. Discover the area's water adventures with fishing and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking and hiking/biking trails.
View more Cottages in CliftonOpens in a new window
Map
Clifton, Pohara Beach

What's nearby

  • Pohara Beach - 6 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Ligar Bay Beach - 10 min drive - 7.1 km
  • Tata Beach - 12 min drive - 8.9 km
  • Te Waikoropupu Springs - 19 min drive - 15.4 km
  • Abel Tasman National Park - 22 min drive - 20.5 km

Restaurants

  • ‪The Wholemeal Cafe - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Countryard cafe - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Nikau - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Bay Take Away - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Molly B’s - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Rock 'n Rata Cottage pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 1 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Rock 'n Rata Cottage?

As of 4 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Rock 'n Rata Cottage on 12 April 2026 start from NZ$144, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Rock 'n Rata Cottage?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Rock 'n Rata Cottage?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Rock 'n Rata Cottage?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Rock 'n Rata Cottage located?

Located in Clifton, this family-friendly cottage is 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from Pohara Beach, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Ligar Bay Beach and Tata Beach. Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 102 out of 120 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 17 out of 120 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 120 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 120 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 120 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Felice v.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed for 6 nights and just loved it. Had everything we needed, the location of this property is amazing with it being a very short drive to pohara beach, Ligar bay and Tata beach. Communication with Susan was very easy and she was incredibly kind and welcoming to us during our stay.This place is also wonderfully quiet and peaceful, making or perfect for a truly relaxing stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Caroline M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was perfect! Just as described, very private, quiet, homely & comfortable. Susan was a friendly host and a great communicator.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janine G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay in this magical peaceful private cottage. Susan and John were so lovely and welcoming, and supplied us with treats from their garden. The house has everything you need - very clean, comfortable and handy to many beautiful spots to visit.The surrounding gardens are so interesting with the rock formations. We loved our six night stay and hope to return one day!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Craig K.

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

Nature's Sanctuary

Enjoyed a relaxing and restorative stay in an idyllic private setting
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gavin M.

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

Thank you!

We loved our stay. Well appointed, quiet retreat!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Peter S.

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

Accommodation in the countryside

We really enjoyed the peace and quiet and the green surroundings. We also appreciated the fruits and herbs from the hostess's garden.
Stayed 17 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jillian A.

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

Paradise

Beautiful quiet lush surroundings. Incredibly peaceful place to stay. Cottage was adorable, clean and had everything we needed.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen F.

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

Super cute & private cabin

Really sweet little cabin surrounded by birds, and really private. Loved it!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin F.

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

peaceful

a lovely peaceful cottage to relax
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jess H.

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

Great cosy Cottage

We spent 5 nights at the Rock n Rata Cottage and loved our stay. The cottage had everything we needed and was nice, cosy and warm. John and Susan we great hosts and a lovely couple who have created a great spot for a secluded getaway. Hope to visit again in the near future. Glenn and Jess, Cambridge
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth Y.

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

Perfect cosy winter getaway

We were very cosy in this beautiful, private cottage. Delightful recycled windows, woodburner, and a view from the bed across the bay. Can’t wait to come back another time.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lauren B.

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

Perfect!

We loved our stay - thanks again for having us all. The cottage feels very welcoming - warm, clean, well fitted out, and so peaceful. Beautiful setting amongst the citrus trees and rock formations.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maria G.

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

Beautiful place

Such a beautiful and tranquil place. From the unobstructed green views all the way to the estuary, to the sound and glimpses of this feeding on the trees. The house itself is so lovely and fresh and the log burning makes it cosy and warm. Our dogs absolutely loved it!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

john w.

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

Peaceful

Fantastic winter retreat close to beach and 10 mins from town..log burner,comfortable bed and all you can hear is birdsong
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan H.

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

Rural Retreat

This was a peaceful and relaxing stay, central to the takaka region and away from any main roads. Property was clean and tidy. Recommended
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cushla a.

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

Te Mohua

This is a sunny little cottage well equipped and very comfortable, close to the attractions of Golden Bay. Susan was friendly and helpful, available if needed but let us enjoy privacy as well.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andy K.

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

A wonderful place we always will remember

The batch is a cosy old house. We felt at home immediately. The house is surrounded by a beautiful garden with old fruit trees. And the hosts Susan & John are very friendly people, who know a lot about life, gardening, trees and a lot more. Thank you!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cole M.

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

Paradise!

Golden Bay is the most beautiful place we have ever been. We are already plotting our way back! We fit in a lot of adventuring during our month here, but one of the best parts of our trip was having this beautiful, cozy home to return to. Susan and John were such kind hosts. We really can't say enough good things about the stay. We've done lots of month long stays across the globe and this was, by far and away, our favorite.
Stayed 21 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tania B.

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

Just perfect

A private rural cottage close to all activities, beaches and Takaka village. The fire was amazing and was already lit by our lovely host Susan when me and my brother arrived. The little touches, the vase of flowers, the already cut kindling and the organic fruit were all lovely surprises. Would definitely recommend a long stay here, I hope to return soon. Thank you Susan and John for out delightful stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John P.

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

Paradise at the foot of the cliffs in Clifton.

The cottage is stunning. It is exactly what you would want from a holiday in the Golden Bay. Hand crafted classic wooden house - nestled in the trees under the cliffs. There are hobbits but no dragons. Perfect. The hosts are perfect - a text away but otherwise not seen. Thank you Susan and John. We had a fab visit.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Madeleine d.

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

stunning cottage in stunning private location, close to town and beaches

such a delightful cottage. plenty of space for 2 guests. very warm and cozy(we visited in winter), great firewood, night heater and stunning surroundings. Susan and John are excellent hosts. Are there when you want them to be but give you all the privacy you require. great to have the Weka's and fantails as your company. beautiful to see macadamia nuts on the trees, Susan was so kind to bring us some and explained what they were, as we had never seen them grow before. Beautiful deck around the cottage to soak up the sun . We will definitely come back Madeleine and Ron
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Excellent location for exploring Golden Bay

We had a great time at Rock 'n Rata. The location was perfect for us (kids 5 and 7) to explore Golden Bay for 10 days. The nearby walk was great. The property is very cosy and full of character. Do enquire about wasps before booking. We undertook a full day-and-a-half eradication mission as they were so bad when we arrived that we couldn't really sit outside without being bothered. The sleeping arrangements for the kids (in the main room) wasn't ideal but the (comparative price) and the beautiful location made up for it. It's a really relaxing place, I would highly recommend for a couple or people with small kids who don't need them to be in separate sleeping spaces.
Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 May 2022
Glad you had a great stay. Wasps sorted with a very effective trap.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carol W.

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

Gorgeous cottage, stunning location

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this beautiful cottage. The setting was fabulous, with citrus trees and rock formations behind and views over fields in front. So peaceful and relaxing. The owners were kind, friendly and helpful and communicating with them was so eaay. Grove Scenic Reviews was literally at the bottom of our private drive. Pohata Beach is just a few minutes drive away. Takaka, with its good range of shops and cafes was just 8 minutes away. The location was perfect for accessing all the Golden Bay walking tracks. The cottage itself was spotlessly clean and well equipped. The beds were very comfortable. All in all, a great place to stay. Highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Maureen a.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Peaceful and tranquil.

Susan was kind and helpful. Everything was very clear. My only criticism was I thought there was one bedroom ( for my friend) and one double bed on a mezzanine floor( for my husband and myself).But it is an open plan cottage with two beds down stairs in the living area with a king on the open mezzanine floor above. In fact although the cottage is really lovely in my opinion it doesn't suit three or four adults.More suited to two adults with two children.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 30 March 2023
The first line of our listing states clearly in bold print that there is one bedroom The upstairs bed is not a double or a king - it is a queen. We agree that the cottage is best suited to a couple or a family of four
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicky O.

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

We'll be rebooking

Such a restful, peaceful location in a nice bach and with all that you'd need provided. Gorgeous outlook and handy to lots of attractions. As a bonus, the bed was comfortable and the fridge wasn't noisy (a common problem in open plan baches when one is trying to sleep). Delightful proprietors too. We liked it so much that we're planning to go back next year.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2022

About the host

Hosted by SusanSn3

Host profile image

What makes this property unique

Stunning backdrop of limestone outcrops, nikau palms, citrus orchard and mature native trees. Private and sheltered.
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