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Pounawea Peaceful Haven

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Welcome to Pounawea Peaceful Haven
Open plan living space
Well set up kitchen with basic cooking ingredients. Plenty of equipment.
Dining table seats eight.
Large sunny lounge with wood burner

Reviews

9.6 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
3 bedroomsSleeps 6160 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View map
The Catlins, Catlins
  • Place, Teapot World
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Catlins Lake
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Kaka Point Beach
    ‪16 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Bathroom 1

Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Pounawea Peaceful Haven

Welcome to our quiet retreat, a warm 3 bedroom house with large open plan living area nestled into the bush. It is a short walk to the waterfront, the playground and the main entrance to the Pounawea Bush.

Nearby golf course, and horse trekking. Fishing is one of our pastimes in the Ōwaka River. There is a great walk along Surat Bay to False Island and Cannibal Bay, with a chance of seeing sea lions along the way.

Ōwaka, 5 minutes away by car, has a small supermarket open seven days until 7pm. There is a very good museum in Ōwaka that is also the tourist information centre.

Pounawea is a great base for exploring the Catlins.

Special conditions:

LINEN
We supply tea towels, bath mat, blankets, duvets and pillows. Bring your own bath towels, hand towels, pillowcases and sheets, including king singles for bedroom 3 (double sheets work well). If you would like us to supply all linen please enquire first, before you book, so we can apply the linen rates. Use the "Contact Host" link on the website.

CHILDREN
No charge for children under 5. Half price 5 to 17 year olds. We need time to manage these discounts because this website is not set up for child rates. Enquire first, before you book, so we can apply the child rates. Use the "Contact Host" link on the website.

CLEANING
Under the Kiwi bach tradition you are expected to clean the house before you leave.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Please fold back the bedclothes of every bed you have used.
Please make sure that the recycling bin contains no glass or landfill waste
We might ask you to take the trash to the end of the driveway and across the street if you are leaving close to a Monday. (The colour of bins to be put out varies week to week)
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Primary renter must be over 25
Minimum booking is three nights.
No smoking or vaping.

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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Owaka

Located in Owaka, this holiday home is on a river. Teapot World is a local attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Kaka Point Scenic Reserve and Catlins Lake. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Holiday homes in OwakaOpens in a new window
Map
The Catlins, Catlins

What's nearby

  • Teapot World - 4 min drive - 6.2 km
  • Catlins Lake - 6 min drive - 9.4 km
  • Willsher Bay Domain Reserve - 15 min drive - 22.4 km
  • Kaka Point Beach - 16 min drive - 23.9 km
  • Kaka Point Scenic Reserve - 16 min drive - 24.6 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Catlins Cafe And Restaurant - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Tahatika Coffee Traders - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪LumberJack - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Kurumi Kitchen - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Kūkū Coffee - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Pounawea Peaceful Haven pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Pounawea Peaceful Haven?

As of 31 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Pounawea Peaceful Haven on 12 Apr 2026 start from AU$125, 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 Pounawea Peaceful Haven?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Pounawea Peaceful Haven?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Pounawea Peaceful Haven?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Pounawea Peaceful Haven located?

Situated by the sea, this holiday home is within 9 miles (15 km) of Teapot World, Catlins Lake and Jack's Blowhole. Cannibal Bay Beach and Willsher Bay Domain Reserve are also within 12 miles (20 km).

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. 66 out of 84 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 84 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 84 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 84 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 84 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great host with thoughtful and helpful communications. Felt very at home spacious, comfortable, good books for rainy days (and good fire!) and well placed for plenty of local adventures.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew P.

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

Great stay

Excellent, hope to go again
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Feb 2023
Welcome back any time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy D.

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

Loved our stay

Wonderful clean and tidy property. Excellent location for exploring and had everything we needed.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jo M.

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

Great location

Great accomodation, relaxing and had everything we needed. Great communication from Host
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Morgan T.

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

Great house and location

We had a great time, the house is well situated and a great layout for a group. Thanks for a great stay 😊
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Jan 2023
Glad you enjoyed your stay, we hope you come back
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Greg H.

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

Pounawea Getaway

Great place
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Susanne K.

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

Great base to explore the Catlins

Comfortable stay where we felt right at home. We enjoyed the fireplace thoroughly on those cold days :)
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

christine w.

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

Fabulous

We thoroughly enjoyed our holiday here. What a fabulous place to stay! Comfortable beds, quiet and peaceful, and everything you could possibly need. Thank you
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sean E.

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

Comfy warm home

John’s place had more than enough of the essentials, was comfortable and close to everything.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eva P.

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

Pounawea paradise

Such a lovely little village and accommodation.Lucky to have had such good weather.Catlins are magnificent.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John and Lucy B.

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

Lovely holiday

After a different accommodation booking we had in the Catlins was cancelled at the last minute, we were very grateful to find and book, "Pounawea Peaceful Haven." We had a fabulous time exploring the area from such a convenient spot. Everyone was very happy and we loved the fireplace!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nageena h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely house, very relaxing with everything we needed.They dont supply bed linen but i didnt realise this but they very kindly made sure we had some.Would definately reommend
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Terry G.

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

Catlins Break

Great place to stay with family. Very clean with everything you need. My youngest enjoyed playing charades with the family in front of the fire. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth A.

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

Pounawea

Very good, quiet, warm and spacious.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mandy R.

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

Perfect!

A very clean and comfortable house in a great location to explore the Catlins. We couldn't have asked for more. Thank you.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie W.

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

Stay at Pounawea haven

Really peaceful with only sound of birds to keep us entertained. Backed into a native bush everything was walking distance. Locked myself out once and was rescued by owner almost immediately by phone. Had a lovely time.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tom B.

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

Get away from it all

If you are after 5 star hotel luxury you probably shouldn't be planning on going to the Catlins. If you want a 'get away from it all' break then book up immediately. Everything you need is here. Make the most of the deserted beaches, the rainforest walks, abundant wildlife and the feeling that you've just stepped back in time.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Sue A.

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

Great stay

We had a lovely few days using this as our base to explore the area. The house was comfortable and well equipped. The washing machine as mentioned is problematic. We ended up hand washing and just using the spinner. The owner was very responsive to our questions. Would recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela M.

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

Gracious hosts

We were meant to stay at John’s place but there was a plumbing issue, which I’m sure is resolved by now. John made exquisite alternate arrangements for us. While I can’t comment on their listing per se, I can comment on their integrity. We were well taken care of considering the circumstances. A pleasure meeting John and his wife.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kieron W.

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

We had an amazing stay in an amazing part of the world. Will definitely be staying again

Great property, Great location .
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

jocelyn r.

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

Was good. Lovely Bach. Would return.

Apologize for not doing the laundry before leaving. Having issues with the washing machine. Only complaint would be it's difficult to operate. Place otherwise was perfect. Lovely location. Clean. Would recommend and stay in this Bach again. Easy with baby whos 4 months old too.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 13 May 2022
Thanks for that review Jocelyn. The washing machine is desperate for a higher pressure water supply, all its problems stem from the low pressure. No worries about the laundry left undone, hope you'll come again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marlen D.

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

Brilliant Place!

Awesome spot to take the kids (even without mum this trip) heaps of space and entertainment will definitely be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Jan 2022
Thanks Marlen. And thank you for leaving the place the tidy and clean. Hope you do come back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ruth B.

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

Comfortable home from home

This is my second time staying at Pounawea Haven, and I enjoyed it as much as the first time! A warm and comfortable house with all the facilities needed. A perfect place to explore the Catlins from or just spend some time hanging out. Looking forward to my return visit in the future!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Trudie C.

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

Nice clean relaxing space

The property worked for our stay. Our teenage children would have liked access to the internet. Overall we were very happy
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cathy W.

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

Location and comfort.

A comfortable spot to stay and use as your base to explore the Catlins for a few days. Great communication with John and Sue too. Thanks for the memories!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2021

About the host

Hosted by Pounawea Haven

Host profile image
This is a holiday place for our family and is used by us frequently throughout the year. It is much loved.

Why they chose this property

Our family has a link back to the area going back 5 generations, and share another property in the area with the wider family.

What makes this property unique

Peace.
No TV!
Native birds.
Fishing.
Seals.
Beach and bush walks.
Photography.
Cycling.
Family time.

Languages:

English
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