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Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront haven - Piwakawaka Retreat

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Relaxing space by fire with views out to sea
Living area with a view
Day Bed with views
Living area
Large dining table

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6120 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View map
Wainui, Canterbury
  • Wainui Banks Peninsula
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Akaroa Wharf
    ‪29 min drive‬
  • Akaroa Lighthouse
    ‪29 min drive‬
  • Christchurch (CHC-Christchurch Intl.)

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bunkroom

2 Single Bunk Beds

King Bedroom

1 King Bed

Queen Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront haven - Piwakawaka Retreat

Our Paradise – Pīwakawaka Retreat

Step into a world where sparkling Akaroa Harbour is just steps away. Pīwakawaka Retreat is a sun-drenched haven where everyday worries drift away. Many of our guests return again and again.

Our waterfront sanctuary blends relaxation and adventure: explore rock pools, swim at the sandy beach, fish from the wharf, take a boat out, or simply unwind on the deck as the sun sets. On lucky days, you might even spot Hector’s dolphins. Surrounded by birdlife, rural landscapes, and the sea, there are plenty of walks and hidden spots to explore right from your doorstep.

Perched above Banks Peninsula and overlooking Akaroa Harbour, Wainui is peaceful and secluded yet close to everything:

* 75 minutes from Christchurch
* 25 minutes from Akaroa
* 15 minutes from the nearest store and restaurant at Duvauchelle

The boat ramp is just 50m from the cottage, a wharf for fishing is 200m away, and Wainui’s main sandy beach with summer pontoon is about 200m in the other direction. Low-tide rock pools, coastal tracks, and nearby bays offer endless exploring — all set against a backdrop of native bush, and ocean views.



Space & Comfort

Inside, a sunny open-plan living area opens to a spacious deck with ever-changing harbour views. For cooler evenings, a heat pump and crackling log burner create a warm, cosy atmosphere. Settle in with a book, board game, or movie on the Wi-Fi-connected smart TV.

Bedrooms:

* King room with electric blanket
* Queen room with electric blanket
* Bunk room (2 single bunks)

Fresh sheets and towels are provided for two guests as standard. Additional bedding and towels can be arranged for extra guests.



Good to Know

Layout: Stairs to the entrance, and internal stairs between the living area and bedrooms.
Toilet: Classic Kiwi bach style — in a separate private room just outside the main bathroom, fully undercover, only 1 metre away.
Toddlers: Deck has glass balustrades and a safety gate, but the layout may not be ideal for very young, mobile children. Please enquire if unsure.
Extras: Wi-Fi, smart TV (Netflix/Chromecast), CDs, games, and books.



Whether exploring Banks Peninsula or watching the light shift over Purple Peak, Pīwakawaka Retreat is the perfect place to slow down, connect with nature, and soak in the beauty of Akaroa Harbour — a sanctuary for the soul.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available

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Peaceful piece of Paradise

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9.8 out of 10, (25 reviews)
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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
Stairs and balcony not safe for very young kids
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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:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Wainui

Located in Wainui, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the beach. Akaroa Museum and Maori & Colonial Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Onawe Pa and Akaroa Lighthouse. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Holiday homes in WainuiOpens in a new window
Map
Wainui, Canterbury

What's nearby

  • Wainui Banks Peninsula - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Akaroa Museum - 27 min drive - 23.7 km
  • Linton The Giant House - 28 min drive - 24.4 km
  • Akaroa Wharf - 29 min drive - 24.8 km
  • Akaroa Lighthouse - 29 min drive - 25.1 km

Getting around

  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC) - 95 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Little Bistro - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Grand Hotel - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Mandala - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪La Thai Restaurant - ‬24 min drive
  • ‪Kaimoana - ‬24 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront haven - Piwakawaka Retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront haven - Piwakawaka Retreat?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront haven - Piwakawaka Retreat?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront haven - Piwakawaka Retreat located?

This Wainui holiday home is on the beach, steps from Wainui Banks Peninsula and within 9 mi (15 km) of Akaroa Golf Club and Duvauchelle Showgrounds. Montgomery Park Scenic Reserve and Ellangowan are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Staff & service

4.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 53 out of 62 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 62 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 62 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 62 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 62 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Nortessa M.

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

Lovely, peaceful, nostalgic stay

We loved this property, it had a beautiful view, the home felt comfortable and warm, we loved all the personal touches and the music!We are already planning another stay in the future. Thanks Sarah!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rebekah G., Christchurch, New Zealand

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

Great stay

Had a wonderful time again- thank you.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Margaret R.

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

Absolutely fantastic weekend

Fantastic weekend in what was our family bach, built by my father.After approx 60 yrs, its still as i remembered, i was 10 when place sold
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laura G.

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

Lovely Stay

We really enjoyed staying at this bach. Beautiful views and a well equipped kitchen. We will definitely be back ☺️
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Aaron R.

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

Lovely Bach

Great harbour views from a typical kiwi bach. Lovely stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dianne P.

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

Good stay

The bach had a nice feel about it… lovely view of the sea… master bed very comfortable.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lili W.

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

Perfect!

We loved our stay here. Great amenities, stunning view and very peaceful. We will be back!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cora T., Lyttelton

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

Perfect Get Away

This is the second stay this year It is Such a perfect place to chill and to let time expand. A Beautiful outlook … The Accommodation is very welcoming and family orientated for a relaxing stay where entertainment and gatherings take place. Very happy with our stay… and will definitely return again.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jason G.

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

Paradise!

Our third time staying at this wonderful home. It just has the most relaxing vibe. Had the fire going & enjoyed a peaceful couple of days with those incredible sea views. Love this holiday home!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cora T., Lyttelton

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

Fantastic

Loved the location and the home was very homely and welcoming
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

amaia g.

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

cozy

cozy place, lovely waking up to the sounds of the water! a great place if you ever need a quiet and relaxing getaway
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michael E.

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

Perfect

This was the perfect place for a relaxing week. Extremely well equipped ( for the kitchen we needn't have brought anything !) , very comfortable sofas, beautiful outlook and easy access to the sea and walks. Beds excellent and even a seaview from the main bedroom. Bliss! Thank you so much Sarah !!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jason G.

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

Fabulous house!

We loved our stay here, the house is so lovely and relaxing, perfect for lazing about & reading a book. Beds were super comfy. There are lots of seats on the balcony to look out at the incredible views across the bays. A quick drive to Duvauchelle for a drink, or on to Akaroa for shopping & exploring. The host was great with communication. Highly recommend this home, in fact I’m planning to go go back! Thanks Sarah for a lovely few days in your beautiful holiday home.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

8/10 Good

Maureen M., Manawatu New Zealand

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

Wonderful Wainui

Beautiful outlook of a well equipped bach. Being 30 minutes out of Akaroa we appreciated the well stocked kitchen. However, when we checked out at 10am we took our rubbish to Barry's Bay transfer station only to discover it doesn't open until midday which left us a bit stuck, it would be helpful for this to be highlighted. Overall we had a lovely few days in Wainui.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

6/10 Okay

Michelle D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Little things

I planned to read, relax and take a short break from my demanding business. The verandah , telescope and the view were my reasons for choosing this Bach. The view was wonderful, I did not manage to focus the lens on the telescope no matter what I did so this I accept as possibly my fault but the verandah lined with broken shredded Ratan furniture really affected the atmosphere. Instead of being welcoming and comfortable it was the opposite. Even sitting in one of the useable chairs the verandah lost its appeal -it felt neglected.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tina-marie C.

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

Waters edge

Stunning views, quiet and relaxing. Had everything you need and more. Can’t wait to return!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jason G.

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

Cosy home away from home

Our second stay at this fabulous home, this time in colder weather so we got to enjoy the logburner fire. This home makes you feel relaxed as soon as you walk in, the comfy open plan living space & magnificent views out to the water & bays. Loved our stay thanks 🙏
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

6/10 Okay

Dave N.

Liked: Check-in, communication

Disappointed

Property has a great view in an ok location but is tired. Shower was not clean on arrival but cleaner came back and attempted to clean but needed exit mould. We wiped food off surfaces in kitchen, bench, table and chairs, bedrooms needed a good vacuum. Stains on sheets in bunk room. House is let down by lack of maintenance and poor cleaner.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shanaz N., Auckland, New Zealand

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

Away from all the hussle

Bit of a drive but when we got here it’s amazing Everything we expected Love to come back
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rene B.

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

Beautiful property overlooking the bay.

Spacious house with ample room for us all. The house's location was great, my kids could walk to the beach to go swim. I had a lazy afternoon on the porch, watching the sunset on the hills over the bay with the waves rolling onto the rocks below. Had an amazing time!! Will definitely recommend it to anyone who needs to get away from the hustle of every day life.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bernard H.

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

Escape for a few days

Wonderfull peaceful break Thank you
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tony W.

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

Staff bolt hole.

Time out space for staff. Great location and aspect. Very relaxing space.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Fiona W.

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

Beautiful getaway

We loved staying here - beautiful, peaceful, comfortable. Amazing views, lovely walks. We had a wonderful time. Will definitely remember this to come back to another time.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Megan R.

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

True slice of paradise

A fantastically tranquil location. Cosy, wondrful view and all the makings a relaxed retreat from the world. Very easy to deal with the owners. We will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Heather F., FINGAL BAY, Australia

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

A quiet location & awesome views

A great place to relax. Beds comfortable and we enjoyed sitting out on the deck soaking up the sunshine, the view and listening to the birds. Would recommend this property to anyone.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022

About the host

Hosted by Sarah Campbell-Simpson

Host profile image
We are a family of four who live in Christchurch and love our bach by the sea in Wainui! It's our home away from home, and we love being able to share it with our guests.

Why they chose this property

Wainui is a very special place, by the beach, peaceful and rural yet so close to Christchurch and Akaroa. We love being by the water, watching the changing light and moods over the bay, and exploring all the walks and adventure activities nearby. We also love chilling out in front of the log burner with some good games or a tv program and just relaxing.

What makes this property unique

Piwakawaka Retreat is a sun-drenched haven that feeds the soul with views that wash away the everyday. Our waterfront sanctuary blends relaxation with adventure; whether exploring rock pools, the sandy swimming beach, fishing on the glassy water, or unwinding on the deck watching sailboats and Hector's dolphins. The perfect base to explore Banks Peninsula, or haven to watch the light change over Purple Peak.

Languages:

English
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