Escape to a peaceful and romantic countryside hideaway, just 1 hour and 20 minutes from Auckland CBD. Awhitu Zen is a carefully designed, Balinese-inspired villa nestled in the quiet beauty of Big Bay on the Awhitu Peninsula. It’s a private, restful retreat ideal for couples looking to unwind, slow down, and enjoy nature in comfort.
This architecturally influenced villa sits at the rear of our 3,983m² lifestyle property, positioned for privacy and relaxation. The setting is rural and coastal – offering a true countryside experience – with easy walking access to the beach below. A shared driveway leads to the villa, while our main house is situated at the front of the land, facing the sea.
Framed by palm trees and native planting, the space blends natural textures and design detail with simple comfort. A fresh-water hot tub (emptied and cleaned between every stay) sits in a landscaped garden, with an outdoor fireplace and BBQ area nearby – perfect for outdoor cooking in any season.
Inside, the villa is compact but well-equipped, with a full kitchen, thoughtfully curated decor, and a covered loggia that opens out to the hot tub and landscaped grounds. Clear roll-down screens on the covered deck allow you to dine outside regardless of the weather. A double hammock, a shade umbrella, and a private entertaining area by the reflection pond enhance the space's relaxed feel.
You’ll find sea views and sweeping rural scenery all around. From across the Manukau Harbour you can see Auckland’s Sky Tower and watch planes on their final approach or takeoff – a detail appreciated by some guests and not usually noticed by others.
Beyond the property, there’s plenty to enjoy: beaches to explore (including the wild beauty of Hamilton’s Gap), Awhitu Regional Park walks, golf, fishing, and seasonal fruit picking. Awhitu Wines is just up the road and worth a visit. This is a place to disconnect and take things at your own pace.
Wood for the hot tub and outdoor fireplace is provided. Please note there’s a security camera covering the driveway only, and our neighbour is a working dairy farm, so you may see cattle in the paddocks next door.
Awhitu Zen offers a countryside experience with the comfort and privacy of a well-designed tiny home. We look forward to welcoming you.
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Please cover the outdoor furniture at night with the tarp provided and use the blocks to hold the tarp down.
Please remove all rubbish and place in bins provided outside by container.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 9927784
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
About the area
Big Bay
Located in Manukau Heads, this holiday home is in a rural area and near the beach. The Wallace Arts Centre, Pah Homestead and Crystal Mountain are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Manukau Heads Lighthouse and Otuataua Stonefields. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Paradice Ice Skating or Mt Albert Aquatic Centre. Kayaking 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 horse riding nearby.
St Margret's Country Garden Cafe - 103 min drive
The Huia Foodstore - 110 min drive
Laingholm Takeaway - 100 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Awhitu Zen - Balinese Inspired Villa with Hot Tub pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Awhitu Zen - Balinese Inspired Villa with Hot Tub?
As of 29 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Awhitu Zen - Balinese Inspired Villa with Hot Tub on 30 June 2026 start from AU$287, 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 Awhitu Zen - Balinese Inspired Villa with Hot Tub?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Awhitu Zen - Balinese Inspired Villa with Hot Tub?
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Awhitu Zen - Balinese Inspired Villa with Hot Tub?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Awhitu Zen - Balinese Inspired Villa with Hot Tub located?
Situated by the sea, this holiday home is 6.7 mi (10.8 km) from Matakawau Beach and 9.7 mi (15.6 km) from Manukau Heads Lighthouse. Waipipi Bird Park is 21.6 mi (34.8 km) away.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
This stay met, and actually far exceeded all expectations!Why travel overseas when this is just on our doorstep!We will certainly return again! excellent hosts!Thanks Stanley and Barbera!
The welcome and general friendliness of the hosts. The property is in a lovely spot with all the amenities needed for a short to medium stay. The outside area is also very relaxing, which was the exact reason I wanted to come.
This is a fabulous property. Clean,tidy and with all the amenities you could want for a relaxing break away. Barbara and Stanley are the perfect hosts who go out of the way to make sure that your every wish is catered for. The location is isolated with stunning scenery close by and within easy walking distance to a fantastic beach - which you will have pretty much all to yourself.
Ross H.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Mar 2026
Thank you Ross & Vicki for your kind words, and we are so happy that you enjoyed your stay. And thank you again for the outstanding way you left Awhitu Zen.
This place was one of the greatest rentals i have had the chance to stay at. It was clear that the property was a labour of love as all the small little details had clearly been thought throigh and meticulously considered. The hosts were lovely on arrival and departure but we never celt intruded upon.
Very nice property and ideal for what we wanted. Aircraft caught us a little by surprise, but we should have worked that out ourselves. Didn't disturb us.
Martin K.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Feb 2024
We are so pleased you liked Awhitu Zen. Perhaps you missed the reference in the listing regarding the planes, however we are very happy to hear they didn’t disturb you.
About the host
Hosted by Barbara
After many years of travelling overseas, we built Awhitu Zen as our own holiday retreat. The peninsula soon felt like the right place to settle, so we sold our city residence and built our permanent home on the same block of land. This has resulted in our holiday home being available for guests.
Hosting lets us share the serenity and solitiude of our vision. We respect your privacy, and are close at hand if you need local tips on walks, fishing spots or the regional park. Awhitu Zen has given us a lasting sense of calm, and we hope it does the same for you.
Why they chose this property
We enjoy the clean air, the rural lifestyle and magnificent views.
What makes this property unique
Awhitu Zen has been created as somewhere for you to relax, recharge, re-energise, reset and refocus. It is 5-star accommodation, and a truly unique experience awaits you.