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Waikare Waters - Luxury Cabin Complex in a private wilderness and waterway.

Photo gallery for Waikare Waters - Luxury Cabin Complex in a private wilderness and waterway.

Lake
Parking
Aerial view
Property grounds
Property grounds

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Garage parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 2

2 Double Futons and 1 King Bed

Main Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Waikare Waters - Luxury Cabin Complex in a private wilderness and waterway.

Magic off-grid luxury cabin complex on your exclusively private peninsula in the Waikare Inlet headwaters of the Bay of Islands. Magnificent nature walks, fishing, kayaking (BYO) or just a secluded refuge - all only 10km from the tourist attractions and facilities of Russell.

You occupy exclusively a cabin complex of four units linked by covered decks around a carport outdoor space. These provide lovely and comfortable holiday "Glamping" accommodation for a couple with a TV lounge that can be configured as a second bedroom with two full size single beds or a king double.

Hot water, stove and barbecue via gas. Somewhat limited electricity is via solar panels and batteries with a petrol generator if needed.

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM

Check out before 10:00 AM

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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Can configure lounge as 1 or 2 single beds bedroom

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Events

No events allowed

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Pets

Pets allowed

Good house trained dogs if arranged when booking.

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Outside only. Dispose of butts safely.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 9505260
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

About the area

Russell

Located in Russell, this cabin is in a rural area. Bay of Islands and Ngaiotonga Scenic Reserve reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Makana Chocolate Boutique and Action World. Kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and hiking nearby.
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Map
Northland, Northland

What's nearby

  • Ngaiotonga Scenic Reserve - 11 min drive - 8.9 km
  • Russell Christ Church - 14 min drive - 11.4 km
  • Russell Beach - 15 min drive - 11.8 km
  • Long Beach - 15 min drive - 11.8 km
  • Flagstaff Hill - 16 min drive - 12.5 km

Getting around

  • Kerikeri (KKE-Bay of Islands) - 55 min drive

Restaurants

  • Duke of Marlborough Hotel
  • Seaside
  • Hone's Garden
  • El Cafe
  • Russell Fish

Frequently asked questions

Is Waikare Waters - Luxury Cabin Complex in a private wilderness and waterway. pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Waikare Waters - Luxury Cabin Complex in a private wilderness and waterway.?

As of 14 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Waikare Waters - Luxury Cabin Complex in a private wilderness and waterway. on 22 May 2026 start from NZ$269, 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 Waikare Waters - Luxury Cabin Complex in a private wilderness and waterway.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Waikare Waters - Luxury Cabin Complex in a private wilderness and waterway.?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Waikare Waters - Luxury Cabin Complex in a private wilderness and waterway.?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Waikare Waters - Luxury Cabin Complex in a private wilderness and waterway. located?

Situated in a rural location, this cabin is steps from Bay of Islands and within 9 mi (15 km) of Manawaora Bay and Ngaiotonga Scenic Reserve. Russell Christ Church and Russell Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.4

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. 20 out of 27 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 27 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 27 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 27 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

Jane R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unique, off-grid experience. Seclusion and privacy. Perfect for a pet-inclusive break. Great spot for fishing. Look forward to coming back over Summer.
The Fishing Rock
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Alexandra C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved our stay in Kororareka. Off grid paradise with beautiful surroundings and everything we needed.Loved being able to collect rock oysters, what a treat!Only downfall was rubbish disposal without attracting insects or rodents.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nat V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Ian D.

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

Secluded and peaceful.

What a wonderful spot. Great accommodation and good walks around the property.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David F.

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

Super-private getaway

Wonderfully private and comfortable spot on its own peninsula - the real world is a kilometre walk back down the driveway. There are lovely bush tracks, water all around and a great view from the hilltop above the accommodation.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dani D.

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

A

Glamping and simple living at its finest! We absolutely adored this place and would love to go back again! It was perfect If you love nature you will love this place too!!! Thank you Alan you were also an awesome host and we appreciate you and your book a bach
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Harlan R.

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

Great place - Great owner.

Me and my girlfriend had a great time at this place, lovely view with a very private location. Wi-Fi was great, very cozy bedroom, lounge and bathroom area. I would rate it 9/10.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason C.

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

Fantastic

Perfect stay for what we were looking for. Host was great, lots of info. Property is amazing. Very private with cool little bush walks all around. Highl recommended.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sylvia F.

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

Magic off the grid bach in Russell

We loved this place. The remote location suited us and the bach had everything we needed. We arrived in a huge storm which did not lift for threw days. Still enjoyed the walks to the mangroves and inlet, loved hearing the kiwi and more pork at night. Russell is only a 15 minute drive away.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David and Julie T.

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

Great dog friendly glamping spot

We loved the solitude and the way that somehow every creature comfort from flushing toilets to TV to mains power as available. The bed was so comfortable i slept past 8am for the first time in years. 10 mins from Russell for a coffee. We also recommend making the trip to Long Beach and doing the walk to Tapeka Point.... all dog friendly. But mostly we recommend sitting on the hill behind the cottage at night and watching the stars...
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

4/10 Poor

Angela E.

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

Not true to listing

Property is listed as luxury - it is not -very average.Was very dirty & the whole place needed a good clean
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Baylee J.

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

Brilliant private cabin

My partner and our two dogs stayed at the cabin and absolutely loved it! It’s about as private as it gets, set on its own peninsula. There is even a beautiful walking track that sets off from the cabins and winds its way through native bush and old mangrove forest. The cabins have everything you could need and are layed out well with great covered outdoor areas. The bed was very comfortable and we appreciated the mosquito net above the bed too. The shower was great and kitchen facilities were very well equipped. Our two dogs also loved the open space to run around. We hope to be back for a longer stay next time!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Sehar M.

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

Great views

We enjoyed the cabin, it was clean and beautiful. We do not own pets as I have allergies. I did not realise the beddings/furniture would have pet hair on it (lots of it!) so I struggled with that part as my allergies flared up. Other than that, the location was great. We had rains but managed to do a walk or two. I would stay again if the pet hair was not an issue. Thanks so much :)
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Natasha W.

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

Peace and tranquility off the grid but with WiFi for the teenagers (and work, if needed)!!

Approximately 15-mins before Russell on a huge rural section away from everyone - peace, quiet, privacy - and 5-min walk on bush path down to the water. Beds were comfy, BBQ well-maintained, water pressure good, large bathroom and kitchen with everything you need. Although the toilet is up the path from the house, it is clean, tidy, and a flush toilet with good quality toilet paper. Very much appreciated the mosi nets - used them each night, no bites! No 4G but the WiFi was very handy, especially for the kids at the end of our day activities. Would stay again. Thanks, Alan.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shannon P.

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

Our new favourite place to escape

This property is paradise there was nothing, absolute nothing we could fault. Off grid, solar powered but yet we had more than enough power to watch tv, charge things you get my drift. Very private and quiet, good when you need time to let the mind, body and soul rejuvenate. We spent most of our time fishing, caught a few good sized snappers for our dinners. Gathered oysters. Most mornings walk up the hill behind the cabins and watch the sunrise whilst having our morning coffee. My 2 dogs were free, as much as we work hard throughout the year, so do my dogs,guarding and protecting us and our home, was good to see them be free to explore nature. Alan the host,as my partner says in his words “is the man” and a “rally driver”he introduced himself, escorted us to the property,and gave us a low down on things, for that we are greatful. We have never come across a host who has gone out of their way to do this. Ngā Mihi Alan, thankyou for sharing your BIG piece of paradise with us. Will definitely be back again.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

karolina s.

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

Privacy and serenity

You will be staying in 4 cabins: one that is your bedroom (very comfortable), another one is a lounge (big corner sofa and TV), one that is your kitchen (including a large fridge/freezer) and one that is a bathroom/shower room. The four cabins are connected by a carport (shade and rain protection) and very cosy. It's like glamping without the 'glamour' but better because you have firm floors, comfortable furniture and more space. The WC/Toilet is flushable but about 10 m away in a sep little shed. We had fantastic weather so plenty of solar power. However, the cabins do get a bit hot so you may want to note that. We had a little low power fan which saved the day. The one and only drawback is that the beautiful water views are obscured by the native bush and thus you only get glimpses of the inlet UNLESS you go up the hill. (1 min) and sit and soak them up from here (however, you wont have any shade). I had my morning coffees on the hill and we enjoyed fabulous sunsets from there too. The only other thing to note is that the cabins dont officially have windows though they let in light via the clear lite cladding. Allan is a great and friendly host and we loved having the dog with us too. We went to Long Beach (Oneroa) in Russell every day for warm ocean swims. Recommend!
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Adam W.

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

Great Stay

The location we perfect for us. You are on your own little peninsula, surrounded with bush and paddocks, down to estuary. We had our dogs with us so found the space great. We took paddle boards and explored the estuary, walked on the property and drove to nearby beaches and into Russell for dinner. Had a small hiccup with power but the owner sorted that asap!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bela G.

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

Stunning bach and location

Absolutely loved the bach. Architecturally vey clever design, cosy, comfortable with everything you need. Amazing bird life, views, peaceful and great for our dog.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Magdalena H.

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

True isolation and peace.

Amazing location, are the end of a small peninsula in the Bay of Islands. Quirky eco building, with corrugated plastic walls. Fantastic bed. All the luxuries you may desire: great shower, fridge, gas cooker, Freeview tv. When the solar energy runs low, you can top the power store up with a small, easy to use generator.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

werner s.

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

Wonderful spot

Great host and a Lovely place with everything you need. If your dog travels with you this place is absolutely perfect as it is private and with no other animals nearby. We will be back
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew M.

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

Happy Campers

Lovely quiet weekend with friends. We love Waikare. Thanks again Alan
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew M.

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

Happy Campers

Thanks Alan again. We love Waikare
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Glen W.

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

Good property

Lovely quiet place. The battery bank will need attention other than that it is as advertised. Just the place to get away from it all.
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lily C.

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

Special Sanctuary

Loved our stay in Alan's amazing glamping cabins, we ended up extending our booking to make the most of it. Very private and peaceful, full of wildlife and incredible stargazing at night. Our dogs loved it just as much as we did. Thanks again!
Stayed 12 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie S.

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

Perfect off the grid solitude

Stayed 9 nights and hated to leave. Being off grid was a good break from city stress, and the dog loved having room to run off lead. Good location for seeing the area, and even caught snapper from "fishing rock" on the property. Alan was a great host. Highly recommend.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2021

About the host

Hosted by Alan Wilkinson

Host profile image

My chequered career includes scientist, computer programmer, university lecturing, consultancy, company director, amateur politician and family man. Now "retired" in nearby Russell with wife, step-daughter, several dogs and some horses we have interests in two holiday rentals, an art gallery and a landscaping business. I turn my hand to most things from bed making to electronics, plumbing and gorse spraying. I enjoy creating things and the natural world and I love seeing our guests happy and enjoying their break in our beautiful places.

Why they chose this property

We originally bought this block after taking a walk on it and seeing its beautiful bush and adjacent waters. We had previously bought two blocks on the other side of the road initially to house our landscaping business.

After the GFC we decided to build the "simple" off-grid cabin complex so that others could also enjoy this place and it could pay its way. As you will find, off-grid is not so simple at all and has quite a few clever little wrinkles to make everything work for you.

What makes this property unique

Your own nature park and pristine waterway, ancient twisted mangroves, old puriri trees, a couple of big kauri, kilometres of bush walks, fishing and oyster gathering. Peace, solitude, wildlife and yes, you can bring your well-behaved dog.

Languages:

English

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