Come summer most folk are seeking a little R&R in the sun – an escape from work and home to relax and socialise with partners, families and friends.
Robin’s Nest at Oakura Bay in the north is a luxury hideaway that provides the best of all worlds – hilltop location, native bush surrounds, panoramic sea views and home comforts including wonderfully comfortable beds!
Formerly the home of Auckland artist Robin Cusdin and husband Peter it is now their weekend escape and available for holiday letting year-round. I was fortunate to spend a night there recently.
“We lived here for five years and at the same time operated a Bed & Breakfast from our attached studio apartment,” Robin says.
“Now both the main house, which is three-bedroom but sleeps eight, and the studio, are both available for self-catering tourists and holidaymakers.
Beautifully appointed and outfitted with all the extras needed for a successful holiday, this novel home fits right in with the environs. The rustic board and batten building blends with the native bush; the decks and barbecue nooks, leaf-ringed retreats looking over the bay.
Inside, the tropical décor and gorgeous folk art with significant South East Asian influences made me exclaim in delight – I just love Robin and Peter’s bold approach, which emanates from every corner.
The open plan kitchen, dining and family area with bay window seating, plus a couple of bedrooms, en suite and main bathroom take care of the downstairs while upstairs the large mezzanine lounge also enjoys views and leads to the main bedroom also with en suite and a delightful internal window where guests can ‘cooee’ to those down below.
We stayed in the lower studio apartment with immaculate kitchenette, en suite and its own private deck area.
The huge king size bed and pretty sitting area, were positioned to take in the views and I really appreciated a bookcase packed with best-selling novels.
Frankly, to my mind, Oakura Bay and cosy Robin’s Nest is just the sort of haven weary Aucklanders would love. About 40 minutes drive north of Whangarei, the scenery is beautiful and the beach, with its associated activities, has much to offer. Come summer it will, no doubt see an influx of visitors.
However, for those craving a spot of peace and quiet after a long winter then now’s the time to make the most of Robin’s Nest and its coastal surrounds. A more lovely idyll would be hard to find.
