See all properties
Entire home

Peaceful, private and stunning views

Waterfront holiday home with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for Peaceful, private and stunning views

Morning tea on the deck
Outdoor dining
Terrace/patio
Morning sun with a view
Living room

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms0+ bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Mahakipawa Arm
  • Place, Pelorus Eco Adventures
  • Place, Picton Ferry Terminal
  • Airport, Blenheim (BHE-Woodbourne)

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 2

2 Single Bunk Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 4

2 Queen Beds and 1 Single Bunk Bed

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Peaceful, private and stunning views

A relaxing, well provisioned, sunny, property with stunning views of Mahakipawa Sound and surrounding bush clad hills from the extensive sunny deck, living areas and main bedroom.

An original 50's Kiwi bach, which has been modestly upgraded, yet retaining its charm. With no internet and fringe cell phone coverage, it's the perfect spot to get unplugged and relax. Aside from the outdoors playground, there is a full games cupboard and an extensive, retro, DVD collection for all ages.
Drive on access with parking for several cars and only a 10 minute drive to Havelock for top up supplies.

The bach itself sleeps 6 and the more recently built, detached sunny sleep out (4th bedroom), can accommodate the extra family or teenagers.
The local beach or public ramp are within a few minutes walk and great bases for launching the two sit on top kayaks provided (use wheels sets to pull them to ramp)... As Moenui is very tidal, playing on the water is best mid to high tide. However, there are plenty of alternative beaches and rivers within close proximity.. The mud is fun too!!
The outdoor, wood fired bath, is a perfect way to end the day and gaze at the starry night sky. (Please be aware that during some hot, dry summers there may be a fire ban across Marlborough, in which case the fire under the bath cannot be lit).

There is a boat launching ramp at Moenui and an all tide, commercial ramp in Havelock (see photos). The bach has a mooring available.
An abundance of local adventures and exploration - hike or bike the extensive Link Pathway and other world class tracks, sea kayaking, Mail boat cruise, wine tastings, Omaka Air Force Museum, good coffee and green lipped mussels from the various Havelock cafes. In winter check out Rainbow ski field.
Ideally located for local events such as Mussel Festival, Omaka Air Show, The Grape Ride and Whites Bay Enduro.

This central location makes it easy to explore Nelson (1hr) Picton (35mins), Marlborough Sounds, Nelson Lakes, Richmond Range and much more.

Special conditions:
Cell phone coverage in Moenui fluctuates, but best to assume no coverage
No wifi - enjoy being unplugged
Deck and section not suitable for unsupervised small children
Some pets may be accommodated by prior arrangement
Extras: Cleaning now obligatory NZ $95.00 per stay; Linen (Optional, NZ$25.00 per person); Guest numbers over 4 are $30 per person per night

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue
Water view

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Outdoor dining
Waterfront & spacious. Room for cars & boat trailer. 6KM from Havelock Marina
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Free WiFi
  • Parking available
10.0 out of 10, (5 reviews)
Waterfront & spacious. Room for cars & boat trailer. 6KM from Havelock Marina

House Rules

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

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Decking & property needs adult supervision
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Two day minimum stay
6 day minimum stay over Christmas New Year 3 night minimum stay over Easter

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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Havelock

Located in Havelock, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Lochmara Lodge Arts Centre and Picton Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Pelorus Eco Adventures and Waitohi Recreational Reserve. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and cycling.
View more Holiday homes in HavelockOpens in a new window
Map
Mahakipawa Arm, Havelock

What's nearby

  • Mahakipawa Arm - 1 min drive - 0.0 km
  • Pelorus Eco Adventures - 6 min drive - 4.7 km
  • Okiwa Bay - 11 min drive - 12.9 km
  • Picton Ferry Terminal - 31 min drive - 28.3 km
  • Picton Harbour - 32 min drive - 28.6 km

Getting around

  • Picton (PCN) - 52 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mills Bay Mussels - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Queen Charlotte Tavern - ‬7 min drive
  • Pelorus Bridge Cafe
  • ‪Live Mussels - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Havelock Takeaways - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Peaceful, private and stunning views pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Peaceful, private and stunning views?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Peaceful, private and stunning views?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Peaceful, private and stunning views?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Peaceful, private and stunning views located?

This family-friendly Havelock holiday home is located on the waterfront, 0.2 mi (0.4 km) from Mahakipawa Arm, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Pelorus Eco Adventures and Pelorus Sound. Okiwa Bay is 6.9 mi (11.2 km) away.

Reviews

9.6

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. 240 out of 303 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 52 out of 303 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 10 out of 303 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 303 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 303 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Todd D.

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

Great Place to Stay

Had a great time, great views and everything was as represented, thanks heaps.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lachlan R.

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

Great location

We had a terrific stay. Everything was as described. The location is wonderful.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024

8/10 Good

Ken P.

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

Place was really cosy, great views

A peaceful time in a nice place
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Vicky H.

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

Highly recommend

Wonderful stay such a lovely place everything you need
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Sarah S.

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

Amazing View

Absolutely stunning view, the bach was comfortable, clean and warm. Thank you for a lovely stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tina P.

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

Peace & quiet with a stunning view

The view was absolutely beautiful, the house was very cosy & not far from the water, we absolutely loved our stay here we didn't want to leave
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paula N.

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

Beautiful Place to Unwind

Loved our stay at Penny's place. Fantastic views, peaceful spot, and very easy to relax and unwind. Everything you need is there- so many home comforts. The house and grounds are spacious with beautiful garden surrounds and birdlife. We felt so at home there that we will be back again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard P.

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

The most perfect place!

Wow, highly recommend this beautiful, clean bach to stay in! From start to finish our time here was absolutely wonderful. Easy prompt communication with owner, everything presented at bach exactly as advertised. It was a dream stay in a dream location. Thanks Penny!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa V.

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

Tour of the South Island

Location was excellent, even in bad weather. Comfortable and homely, well kitted out.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

CYC D.

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

Restful and relaxing in paradise

Get away from it all with amazing views of the sounds but still be an easy drive to Vineyard Restaurants near Blenheim, a beautiful drive to Picton, and not even too far to Nelson for lunch. And if it rains cosy up to the fire and watch the weather pass over the ocean. Highly recommended!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brett W.

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

Moenui Retreat

Moenui Retreat, easy access, beautiful views, very quiet and serene, bird song and the incoming and outgoing tide was all you could hear. Indoor and outdoor flow was great, a lovely setting on the deck. Hop skip and a jump to Blenheim and Nelson.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandy W.

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

Peaceful santuary

Totally loved our stay. Everything we needed, cosy, comfortable, like home away from home but better! Penny is a wonderful host and I was made to feel like she really cares about your stay. Highlights are many but the birdsong and views and the garden would be my favourite things. Would happily return. My soul is recharged after this visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Megan R.

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

Just magic

Fabulous location and amazing property. Owner a pleasure to deal with:>
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Alex N.

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

Moenui rural golf course

Absolutley splendid. Teed off 18 holes, birdied none aced the 19th. In all seriousness this is such a great spot and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elton M.

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

Paradise!

What a wonderful bach! The place had everything we could wish for - stunning views, peaceful tranquility and real character. The kitchen had great utensils for self catering, and we all enjoyed using the kayaks, hammock and board games. Would love to visit again!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marc J.

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

Incredible spot

We've always loved the Marlborough Sounds because of its expansive views, calm and nature. Penny's house is the perfect spot to enjoy all of those things. Views are incredible, better than the photos. The bach is charming with a great deck and Penny's communication is friendly and proactive. We will definitely come back!
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen S.

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

Peaceful Moenui

Moenui Retreat is definitely food for the soul. The view out over the sound is breathtaking whether from inside or from the deck. The house is very inviting, comfortable and private. The owner was a delight to deal with and promptly answered any questions I had.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jocelyn W.

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

Gorgeous retreat

This house has the qualities of a classic Kiwi bach, with some well-conceived improvements. The view onto the water is stunning, and the extended deck plus generous windows and ranch sliders make allowed us to enjoy this on fine and wet days. The wood heater was stocked with plenty of firewood. The large new shower was great although our 90yr old mother needed a handhold. The split level floors were a challenge for her walker, and a handhold in the toilet would have been helpful. However the enjoyment of the ambience, scenery and birdlife made the stay a pleasure for us all. We would love to return one day.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

A real gem!

What a wonderful place! It absolutely exceeded expectations in comfort and scenery. Those views are captivating - we spend a lot of time just sitting on the deck and looking out! The space was welcoming and well equipped. We enjoyed an outing to Blenheim to visit the Omaka Air Exhibits and a few cellar doors on one day, and then the Pelorus Mail Boat trip the next day. But best of all was just relaxing at the bach, enjoying the views, some wine, some games and some delicious apples. Stunningly beautiful area, helped by the fact that we had lovely weather. Penny, the owner was so helpful with advance information and a real pleasure to work with. Highly recommended!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

chris h., Australia

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

Nice and comfortable

Perfect getaway, great views on the deck across the water. Comfortable house, all things needed provided. No wifi or phone reception, go old school and play DVDs if you need tv entertainment. Clean and tidy, wood fire for heating
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Warwick L.

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

Moenui

classic bach with functionality
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenny M.

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

Relaxing, refreshing and fun holiday

Wonderful holiday home with amazing view. We were lucky with brilliant weather for our 8 night stay. Spent hours just looking at the view! So many games and puzzles and dvds which the kids loved. Kayaking was fun, eating mussels in local havelock and doing many stunning walks really made our Sounds holiday fabulous. Very easy communication with Penny. Thanks so much Penny!
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Peter T., Perth. Western Australia

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

Moenui is the place to relax

Arriving is the start of the adventure, the view, the layout, and that deck. You can’t help but relax. Then really hear the sounds of nature and the abundance of bird life in the area. Just awesome. Great place to unwind and re-charge. Great layout inside, with everything you need. Nearest town just 7km away.
Stayed 11 nights in Jan 2023
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Stew M.

Theres just so much good stuff to say about Penny, the house,...

Theres just so much good stuff to say about Penny, the house, the view, everything, so it’s easier to just mention the bad stuff. We hated leaving. I even threatened to lock myself to the deck. The average to poor phone reception turned out to be the best thing. The kids stayed off their devices and we played cards and board games. One of the best holidays ever and I’m lucky enough to have had lots. We still miss the house, the view and the weather. We found our paradise. Thanks so much Penny.

10/10 Excellent

Dominica C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We absolutely loved our stay. An authentic Marlborough Sounds bach with plenty of thoughtful touches. Stunning views and plenty of things to do in the area, though just staying at the bach was the best thing to do. Thank you Penny!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

About the host

Hosted by Moenui_Retreat

Host profile image
Born in New Zealand, I currently live in Christchurch, although spent my childhood in Auckland. I am passionate about the outdoors and have spent my life sailing, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, mountain running and skiing - in New Zealand and overseas.
My children have spent their childhood holidays playing at Moenui. Now, it is wonderful to see them having holidays here with their adult friends.
For many years I was reluctant to open up the home for the holiday rental market. However, it has been very heartening to see how respectful and positive the many guests are. It is a pleasure to be able to share this place. I only wish I could meet you all, but it is a bit tricky from Christchurch!

Why they chose this property

A holiday in the Marlborough Sounds, filled with mountain biking, swimming, kayaking, fishing and hiking, introduced me to this wonderful region of New Zealand.
Excited about the prospect of purchasing a holiday home, I drove around for a day, noting appealing settlements, which also didn't have excessive travel time from Christchurch, nor windy roads.
Shortly afterwards I purchased my holiday home in Moenui. We have had many wonderful family holidays here and never tire of what adventures and beauty the Sounds offer.

What makes this property unique

Within the first few minutes of arriving at the property, we fell in love with the beautiful view framed by the native bush. When not adventuring, much of our time is spent on the expansive deck (replaced in 2018), absorbing the ever changing light and ripples playing on the water. I never tire of this view and love the cosiness of the bach. The local community are wonderful - . forever helpful, welcoming and social.

Languages:

English, French

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests