A blissful Bay of Islands getaway
Mary de Ruyter discovers seaside style and tranquil views in laid-back luxury in the Bay of Islands.
The place
Driftwood’s two self-catering holiday homes, billed as ‘‘laid-back luxury’’, are set on 45 hectares of private coastal land in a quiet Bay of Islands inlet. The property is also home to the owner’s residence, their adult children’s dwellings, an equestrian school, and a number of rescue chickens.
The whole outfit is run by Vanessa and Richard Owen, a couple so enterprising that hearing about the projects they’re juggling leaves you needing to lie down. Luckily, The Bach and The Pad are the perfect places to do so.
Location
Overlooking one of Te Puna Inlet’s many bays, Driftwood is approximately 40 minutes northeast of Kerikeri.
The final 15 minutes of the drive is on bumpy, unsealed road, winding along Purerua Peninsula’s spine. The Bach sits on top of a ridge near the Owen residence. Down a short farm track, The Pad is at sea level, next to the boat ramp.
The backstory
This is Driftwood 2.0. Previously, the Owens ran an accommodation business by the same name, close by. When it looked like Covid was getting serious, they convinced their daughters to return home from overseas – and eight people (six family members and two partners) ended up squeezed into one house.
‘‘We actually really liked each other, though we screamed and shouted,’’ Vanessa says. So they decided to find a larger property that would give the young ones space to start their own businesses and stay in Northland. The shift happened in July last year, and they hustled to recreate their holiday accommodation in time for Labour Weekend.
The space
If you’re in any danger of forgetting you are beside the sea, just look at the decor. Both residences are kitted out with a busy mix of seaside- and nautical-themed paraphernalia, polished wood floors, and cosy linens in beachy colours.
The Bach is a renovated 1960s house from O¯ rewa Beach, situated so the lounge and first bedroom enjoy prime sea views. A modern kitchen is done out in teal and white, and the second bedroom is just big enough for a single bunk bed.
In the renovated sail loft of a boat shed, The Pad has angled roofs, a mezzanine level and compact charm. One wall features photos and memorabilia from the years Vanessa and Richard spent sailing around the world with their kids. It’s more luxe, as they plan to retire here.
The water is on your doorstep, so start by going swimming or fishing. There are well-used dinghies, kayaks, paddleboards, and lifejackets to borrow, or bring your own. Book a riding lesson with youngest daughter Milli, who runs the equestrian school, or look for kiwi at night.
The food
Coffee, tea, olive oil and lemon juice are provided, as are fresh eggs from the chickens. At The Bach, there are herbs growing in the garden, a gas barbecue, and a brazier on which to toast marshmallows. Buy supplies on your way, so you can relax and revel in the view.
Stepping out
Kerikeri, the closest stop for food, has supermarkets, eating out options, and two weekend markets: Kerikeri Farmers’ Market (better for fresh produce) and Old Packhouse Market.
Further expanding the family empire, Dionne (the oldest Owen daughter) owns and runs Fishbone Cafe, and Vanessa and Richard also co-own The Merchants of Kerikeri, a collection of shops selling upcycled items, luxury linens and more.
Ten minutes from Driftwood, Rangihoua Heritage Park encompasses Rangihoua Pa¯ and Marsden Cross, where Aotearoa’s first permanent Pa¯ keha¯ settlement was set up in 1814. The park opened in 2014, and its website is an excellent resource before and during a visit.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Paihia are an hour away, and Russell is not far beyond. To the north, reach Matauri Bay or other sandy swimming spots from the loop road off State Highway 1.
Highlight
Sinking into the cushions in The Bach’s main bedroom to look through the open doors across the water. Water view plus warm and cosy equals bliss.
Lowlight
It would have saved time and swear words if the welcome booklet included instructions on how to operate the ubermodern oven, and mentioned that terrestrial TV isn’t available.
Essentials
The Bach and The Pad each sleep two adults and two children, and cost $185 a night until the end of September.
Ask if you would like to bring your dog. It must stay on a leash at all times.
Visit driftwoodnz.com for details.