WARU Whakatane: <br>Waterfront Apartment, Restful and Uplifting<br>
Quietly tucked away around the corner from the i-Site, WARU is an exclusive sub penthouse apartment (with lift access) which has stunning views of the river & ocean and a lovely outlook towards the native bush and the CBD.
WARU is a spacious & comfortable, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment - sleeps 4 guests. Location right next to the CBD makes it an extremely convenient place to stay. While more suited to adult accommodation, families with well-behaved and supervised children are welcome.
With over 100m2 there is enough room for everyone to be comfortable. The balcony area allows you to catch the early morning sun, sit back and take in the view to Moutohora/Whale Island, Ohinemataroa/the river and the harbour entrance.
WARU is as close as you can get to the river and CBD. What this means is that within minutes you can walk to cafes, restaurants, shops, the movie theatres, children’s parks and much more. In fact with Roquette Restaurant directly downstairs you don't even need to leave the building for coffee, lunch or dinner (except on Sunday). Two secure car parks are also available. Make sure to pack your walking shoes!
The kitchen is very well equipped if you prefer to cook. The dining and living areas are open plan and very comfortable. The smart TV with Freeview and Sonos allows you to listen to music, most radio stations in the world, watch Netflix, DVDs or surf the net. Complimentary Wi-fi is part of the package.
Both bedrooms are tastefully furnished with quality beds, linen and towels. The main bedroom has delightful views of Moutohora Island, Ohinemataroa River and beyond toward the harbour entrance. It also has a walk-through wardrobe to an ensuite bathroom.
The twin room has views to the bush clad hills, the waterfall, both lookouts and into the CBD. Books, toys and games can be found on the bookshelf for both children & adults to enjoy.
The main bathroom is located next to this bedroom & also includes a washing machine and dryer.
The beautiful & best loved Ohope Beach is only a 10 min drive away.
There are 5 local golf courses in the Eastern Bay of Plenty within a 30ish min drive from WARU. Fishing, diving, kayaking and sightseeing information and tours are available from the Information Centre which is less than a minute walk away as is Moutohora Island Tours available from Pee Jays. The wharf and passenger pick up places are only a short walk from WARU.
Price Includes: Milk, coffee & a selection of teas A welcome gift. Complimentary Wi-fi & Netflix All Linen, towels and beach towels Toiletries - soap, body wash, shampoo & conditioner
Off Site Owner Manager Special conditions:
* The owner/manager will arrange a time to meet you and explain access, security and answer any questions.
*. All codes to be kept confidential. Visitors limited to four people, and they must be buzzed in.
* Not suitable for venues and because this is part of a complex, we expect consideration to other residents with regard to noise.
* No additional guests staying beyond those booked.
* No smoking, vaping, pets or parties.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
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Safety latches on windows. Children’s books & toys
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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
No smoking inside or on balcony. Thank you.
Please keep codes confidential. Visitors to be buzzed in - push button 12 at the entrance, answer phone and then push open door button to let them in.
Please hook up & use door jambs when bringing up & taking down luggage to protect paintwork.
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 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
Property Registration Number 20033794
We should mention
A car is not required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Whakatane
Located on the waterfront, this apartment is in Whakatāne Town, a neighbourhood in Whakatane. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Wairere Falls and Pohaturoa, while Mataatua: The House That Came Home and Whakatane District Museum and Gallery are cultural highlights. Scuba diving and power boating offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and mountain biking nearby.
Mataatua: The House That Came Home - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Te Manuka Tutahi Marae - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Pohaturoa - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
Te Papaka & Puketapu - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
Getting around
Whakatane (WHK) - 15 min drive
Restaurants
Baxter's Cafe - 7 min walk
Ohiwa Oyster Farm - 11 min drive
Kebab House - 4 min walk
Subway - 3 min walk
Burger King - 17 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is WARU Whakatane: <br>Waterfront Apartment, Restful and Uplifting<br> pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at WARU Whakatane: <br>Waterfront Apartment, Restful and Uplifting<br>?
As of 1 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at WARU Whakatane: Waterfront Apartment, Restful and Uplifting on 21 Feb 2026 start from AU$181, 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 WARU Whakatane: <br>Waterfront Apartment, Restful and Uplifting<br>?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at WARU Whakatane: <br>Waterfront Apartment, Restful and Uplifting<br>?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at WARU Whakatane: <br>Waterfront Apartment, Restful and Uplifting<br>?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is WARU Whakatane: <br>Waterfront Apartment, Restful and Uplifting<br> located?
Located in Whakatāne Town, this apartment building is within a 5-minute walk of Whakatane River Walk, Mataatua: The House That Came Home and Wairere Falls. Te Manuka Tutahi Marae and Pohaturoa are also within 5 minutes.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
A wonderful accommodation great location and a fantastic hostess we had a wonderful time
Josephine C.
Stayed 24 nights in Jan 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Feb 2025
Josephine's parents Brian & Jeanette were a lovely couple, & simply fantastic guests who looks after your place like it is their home. Really enjoyed meeting them and big thanks for the gifts they left me. Highly recommend to other hosts. Nga mihi
Better than a hotel, lovely and clean. Beautiful attention to detail, lovely linen, kitchen well set up.Great location.Host was so friendly and informative.Best bach we have ever stayed in by far!
Kristina B.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 May 2025
Thank you so much Kristina for your absolutely lovely review. It is a nice feeling when guests appreciate the small things we do to make the stay a memorable one. You and Laura were really great guests and I'm so happy that you enjoyed your stay and hope to see you again.
Absolutely wonderful place to stay. Very clean, everything provided and really lovely host. Location is very convenient for walks, shopping etc and has a beautiful view. I highly recommend staying at Waru - you will love it!
Lynn S.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Apr 2023
Thank you Lynn & Janet for your kind words & booking WARU. You left the apartment so beautifully that guests like yourselves make hosting very easy & joyful. You will always be welcome back.
Great location, lovely host and everything you need in a beautifully kept apt. Will be back.
Guy C.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Feb 2023
Thank you Guy for your kind words (7 for leaving some of your special tea!). So pleased you had great weather which allowed you both to enjoy the activities you had planned.
We really enjoyed our stay here, Shelly was great to deal with, apartment had absolutely everything we needed, the bed was SO comfortable and Showers were amazing.
Sacha L.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Thank you Sacha for your very complimentary review. I'm glad you both enjoyed your stay.
Nga mihi maioha
Shelly
Clean tidy and central. Thank you for the nice touches like personalised check in and food and beverages to add to the appeal. Off street parking and easy to find. Recommended.
Stephen F.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Jan 2025
Thank you Stephen for your kind words. Enjoyed meeting you & having you stay & happy you enjoyed WARU.
By far the best experience we have had staying and dealing with the owner. Shelly’s pride and passion is evident throughout the apartment and dealing with her made it fantastic. Thank you Shelly for allowing us to stay at your place. See you again!
JJ S.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Dec 2024
Thank you so much for your very kind words. It was an absolute pleasure to meet JJ & Elsa who are lovely people and the kind of guests hosts love having to stay. I look forward to seeing you next time!
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
susanne w.
8 Nov 2018
Wonderful location, beautiful views, walking distance to everywhere in town
Wonderful location, beautiful views, walking distance to everywhere in town.
Loved our views from our bedroom too.
We slept with windows and doors opened. Felt very safe.
susanne w.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Thank you Susanne for your lovely review. So glad you enjoyed your stay.
Michelle was very lovely and a warm welcome. Her place is stunning with the views overlooking the water and the best location to be. Everything was just a stroll away. She also allowed our 11 month old, soon to turn 1 that weekend to stay as well which was awesome!
Would return again!
Summer S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Feb 2023
It was lovely to meet Summer & her whanau. Happy you enjoyed your stay. Nga mihi.
Would thoroughly recommend this wonderful holiday apartment. Shelly welcomed us on arrival and gave us all the information we needed. The apartment is exquisitely furnished yet homely and very comfortable. Brilliant location, right on the waterfront and close to all the shops in Whakatane.
PETER L.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Mar 2023
Thank you Peter for your kind review. It was lovely to host you & I look forward to you returning.
Very clean, tidy and well-appointed Whakatane apartment. The apartment has everything you need for a relaxing stay.The view from the balcony is very relaxing - a place to spend many quiet hours. Centrally located in downtown Whakatane this apartment has everything you could ever need. Owners excellent to deal with. Would definitely come back.
Ross H.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Mar 2025
Ross was an easy guest to communicate with and very appreciative and respectful of the apartment which was left beautifully. He is the kind of guest hosts love to have stay and return.
Thank you Ross for your review, it's aways a plus when a guest enjoys the space.
We had a fabulous stay at Waru! Shelly a wonderful host. Gorgeous apartment with sea and river views, close to everything we wanted for nothing apart from the sun it was sadly missing from our recharging long weekend but we relaxed and enjoyed ourselves nevertheless!
Sharalon S.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Feb 2023
It was lovely to meet Sharalon & her mum who were guests hosts love to have stay. Bit sorry about the lack of sun but happy you were able to relax and enjoy the space. Thank you for your kind words.
Wonderful, friendly hostess who went the extra mile to ensure our stay was memorable. Beautiful location overlooking the river, handy to all amenities with a top restaurant on the ground floor. Spacious, airy apartment had everything you needed with super comfortable bed and living areas, well equipped kitchen and laundry facilities and lots of extras - books, puzzles, even some home baking and snacks. Our favourite place to stay and can't wait to return. Excellent value for money.
Margaret E.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Jan 2024
Nga mihi maioha Margaret for your kind words. You and Rick are the kind of guests hosts love & like you I can't wait for your return. Happy you enjoyed the snacks and extras.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Isobel W.
9 Dec 2018
The apartment was very comfortable and had all the facilities (and more...
The apartment was very comfortable and had all the facilities (and more besides) that we needed for a restful break. We have rented holiday residences in many parts of the world and this apartment is one of the best we have ever stayed in. I just hope that future guests also appreciate the high quality touches. Shelly met us when we arrived, showed us around and left us to it but made it clear that she was available if necessary. This is an absolute gem of a place if you’re in the area.
Isobel W.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Thank you so much for your lovely review of WARU. It was a pleasure having you and Peter to stay. Thanks again.
Shelly is a great host, the property is beautiful and everything that you could want is included,
The only thing is that the place needs air conditioning, you can open windows and get airflow, but the outside noise is very loud
The place is beautiful and so well located and AC would make it a 6 stars place to stay
We couldn’t sleep well at night because it was too hot
Sorry I wanted so badly to give her 5 stars as she is awesome, but we couldn’t sleep well at all
Luc V.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Jan 2023
Thank you for your kind words. It was lovely to meet Luc, his wife & friends. I was very sorry to read that you were unable to sleep well. While we do not have air con, the main bedroom doors can be left open safely which allows a natural air breeze to flow and there is also a portable dyson fan (which we discussed) that could have been used in the second bedroom to help cool the room. Your group were fortunate to have experienced some of the best weather this summer which did mean it was hot at night & unfortunately you weren't able to ventilate your rooms as well as you might have. All the best for the rest of your stay in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Verified
6/10 Okay
Ivan. And Lois B.
15 July 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location
Disliked: Check-in, listing accuracy
Review
The property was excellent. Easily the best we have stayed in. But we will not use Book a Bach again. The process of booking was difficult if not nearly impossible for us oldsters. We were on the point of giving up when the 7th or 8th try we finally got the booking done.
Ivan. And Lois B.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Aug 2023
Ivan & Lois were lovely guests to host. Very good communication & glad they persisted in booking. I’m sure the 3 stars refers to their difficulty booking their stay.
Would recommend this couple.
Waru was a wonderful apartment with an amazing view from the balcony . It was clean and very spacious. A minute walk from shops, cafes and restaurant located directly underneath. Shelly’s hospitality is unmatched, a full tour of Waru and great communication throughout. What a wonderful host and a stunning apartment. We will definitely be back. Thank you Shelly and Grant!
Kat H.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Dave W.
16 Dec 2018
Peaceful home from home
This is an amazing apartment that we cannot recommend highly enough. Shelly is a great host so all in all it’s a winner. The apartment is huge running the depth of the building from the kitchen past a huge dining table to the double sofa living space and out to the spacious balcony. The front bedroom and living room both have panoramic views of the river front and beyond to the sea. The kitchen is fully equipped with nice touches such as cooking oil and other provisions in the fridge. There are two bathrooms and laundry facilities too.
The location is perfect being a few steps from the Strand and White Island Tours
We loved our stay and thank you for providing such a lovely home
Dave W.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Guests like yourselves make a host feel really happy and appreciated. It was a pleasure to share WARU with you both and it would be lovely to see you return to Whakatane and explore some more of what the Eastern Bay of Plenty has to offer.
Thank you so much for the lovely reviews you have written.
Lovely spacious apartment, right on the river so great views. Everything you need for a very comfortable stay with lots of lovely touches. Central for eating out and with Ohope beach just over the hill. Thanks Shelly
Noeline T.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Feb 2023
Thank you Noeline for your kind words. Good to know you enjoyed your stay.
As the star ratings suggest at all 5 star, this was an outstanding property and it would be extremely hard to find anything to dislike.
We were met by Shelley on checkin and shown what was what and received very clear and helpful advice as to how the apartment was set up and facilities on offer.
The apartment is finished to an extremely high level of finish and decor along with very comfortable furnishings and beds etc. The home made cakes and biscuits were great and a very nice welcoming touch.
This apartment is so good we will be recommending this to any of our family who may also visit NZ/Whakatane.
Thanks again to Shelley for the experience.
Bob H.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
It was a delight to meet Bob & Liz. They are friendly & easy to talk to and they also were very appreciative of the location & facilities WARU offered and left the apartment as if it was their own home. They are the kind of guests host love having stay. Nga mihi maioha.
If you are looking for a place that has it all WARU is the place. Amazing view of White Island and the convenience of local restaurants only a short stroll away. WARU has all the comforts of home and more.
A secured car park was a bonus.
Highly recommend WARU if you are visiting Whakatane and will definitely be back.
Shanie M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Nga mihi Shanie for your lovely review. Just a little correction Whakaari/White Island is hidden by the pohutukawa tree but there is a great view of Moutohora/Whale Island :-).
It was a delight to host you and I'm really happy you enjoyed your stay.
Nga mihi maioha.
Everything is made to feel comfortable and Shelly was very welcoming.
Sarah Q.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Nga mihi Sarah for your review. It was lovely to meet you all and I'm pleased to hear you felt comfortable and welcome. Hope to see you again.
About the host
Hosted by Michelle (Shelly) Wilson
I was born and have lived in the Eastern Bay of Plenty almost all my life. My mother is Maori and my father is from Jersey. I have lived in Edgecumbe which is a 20 minute drive west from Whakatane for over 30 years and where both my husband Grant and I went to school. We love living here.
We have a daughter and a son and also two mokopuna (grandchildren). We are both teachers. I manage WARU with assistance from Grant when needed & we also do the cleaning.
WARU is a dream come true for us. I enjoy meeting our guests and letting them know about the many and varied attractions and activities the Eastern Bay has to offer.
Our life motto - Attitude to gratitude, Choose to be happy and in control, Live in the present.
Why they chose this property
WARU delivers on all aspects, location, views, comfort, attention to detail, privacy and security.
My intention is to provide guests with a warm and friendly welcome so that they leave WARU having thoroughly enjoyed their stay and with wonderful memories of Whakatane and the Eastern Bay to take away with them. We are open to any suggestions guests have to improve their stay
What makes this property unique
The views are amazing, whether you are into water or bush views you will not be disappointed. Bird watchers will be delighted with the abundant bird activity. Sitting on the balcony watching the everchanging views of the river due to the incoming and outgoing tides is a lovely way to relax and recharge.
At over 100m2 there is a lot of space for you to enjoy, whether you are on your own, as a couple or family, or group of four.
Being able to walk within minutes to cafes, restaurants, shops and CBD is really convenient. It allows freedom for guests to please themselves when and where they go. No need to take the car. If you have small children then the walk along the river either way will take you to impressive children's playgrounds where parents can sit and supervise and enjoy what many locals consider to be our slice of paradise. There is also a skatepark and places where you can fish from the wharf. If you enjoy stand up paddle boarding there is a small landing near the iSite where you can launch from.
Two lookouts visible from the kitchen and second bedroom are only a short walk away and well worth the effort.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests