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XSPOT Cliff 4WD holiday apartment for two - Spectacular 270° Hauraki Gulf views

Photo gallery for XSPOT Cliff 4WD holiday apartment for two - Spectacular 270° Hauraki Gulf views

Property grounds
from the deck looking west
looking out
Room
Breakfast on the deck

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2538.2 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Master suite

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

XSPOT Cliff 4WD holiday apartment for two - Spectacular 270° Hauraki Gulf views

“2013 Gold Winner Golden Piwa" BEST IN ECO-FRIENDLY!

It's blissful! A relaxing adventure!

Are you looking for peace, quiet and solitude? This light and modern apartment on Aotea Great Barrier Island in the winterless north of Aotearoa New Zealand provides just that. Is also has sweeping 270° degree panoramic views over the Hauraki Gulf.

Walk in and become part of the view. Take a seat on the comfy couch or a deck chair and gaze at the ever-changing views over the water. Then step off the veranda, follow a short track and sit down on a rock to absorb the view over the water, only a hundred meters below. Hear the waves break on the rocks and look out for whales, dolphins, or even sting- or manta rays.*

The apartment is self-contained with its own entrance and hallway. It is attached to our home, from where we, if required, can assist with tips on things to do on island, and solar and firewood systems.

While there is no promises, we often see dolphins, whales working schools of fish, gannets graciously gliding past at eye-height and cray fisherman checking their pots.

So while you settle in, you may occasionally have to check that your book is still in your lap and that your drink is still at hand, but you may completely forget about them, too.

Once you're totally relaxed, explore the island, or have a splash in the shared unheated swimming pool with views in summer.

This remote 4WD location is perfect for a honeymoon! Don't forget to ask about our Good Heavens stargazing special for couples!

The 80m2 apartment is spacious and has one master bedroom with ensuite and a walk in wardrobe to store your gear.

Book an extra few days if you are in doubt.. Most of our guests say they are sorry they didn't stay for longer. On top of the cliff, you're just a world away.

4WD access only! Bring your own 4WD car on the ferry or rent one through Claris rentals.

Travel to the Barrier by sea on the Sealink ferry, or fly with Barrier Air or Island Air.

There is an extra queen bedroom available. Extra guests must be booked in advance and are subject to availability.

Special conditions:
This clifftop apartment has has amazing views but is not necessarily suitable for toddlers. They are welcome with tight supervision.

Our alternative power system is sturdy but cannot cope with an overload. Electric appliances creating heat (hairdryers, -straighteners, toasters, rice cookers, etc.) can kill our batteries. Please leave them at home. Phone chargers, etc. are fine.

Please leave the property as you found it or pay $100 extra for cleaning.

Please ask about a Good Heavens Private Dark Sky Experience on site, or a Dark Sky Group Experience at Medlands.

* note: there is no easy access to the water below.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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Exterior
Ponga House - Kaitoke Waters
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available
Ponga House - Kaitoke Waters

House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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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

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the neighborhood

Great Barrier Island

Located in Great Barrier Island, this apartment is by the ocean. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Medlands Beach and Kaitoki Beach. Scuba diving and surfing/body boarding offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and hiking/biking trails nearby.
View more Apartments in Great Barrier IslandOpens in a new window
Map
Tryphena, Great Barrier Island

What's nearby

  • Medlands Beach - 21 min drive - 12.2 km
  • Kaitoki Beach - 33 min drive - 23.3 km
  • Awana Bay - 36 min drive - 24.7 km
  • Whangaparapara Harbour - 39 min drive - 26.8 km

Getting around

  • Great Barrier Island (GBZ) - 34 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tipi And Bobs - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪The Burger Shack - ‬28 min drive
  • ‪Barrier Social Club - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Mulberry Grove General Store - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Stonewall Store & Bottle Store - ‬17 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does XSPOT Cliff 4WD holiday apartment for two - Spectacular 270° Hauraki Gulf views have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

How much does it cost to stay at XSPOT Cliff 4WD holiday apartment for two - Spectacular 270° Hauraki Gulf views?

As of Mar 26, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at XSPOT Cliff 4WD holiday apartment for two - Spectacular 270° Hauraki Gulf views on May 22, 2026 start from $174, 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.

Is XSPOT Cliff 4WD holiday apartment for two - Spectacular 270° Hauraki Gulf views pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at XSPOT Cliff 4WD holiday apartment for two - Spectacular 270° Hauraki Gulf views?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at XSPOT Cliff 4WD holiday apartment for two - Spectacular 270° Hauraki Gulf views?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is XSPOT Cliff 4WD holiday apartment for two - Spectacular 270° Hauraki Gulf views located?

Situated by the ocean, this apartment building is 8.4 mi (13.6 km) from Medlands Beach and within 16 mi (25 km) of Kaitoki Beach and Blind Bay. Awana Bay and Mount Hobson are also within 25 mi (40 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 87 out of 92 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 92 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 92 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 92 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 92 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lorraine V.

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

A most relaxing stay

Beautiful setting and superb facilities, exceptional view, very comfortable, with welcoming, friendly and helpful hosts. A place to revisit!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

DEB K.

Beautiful property, stunning location

Our stay at the XSpot was perfect! Comfortable, super relaxing and with the most beautiful views. My husband hit the nail on the head with this choice for my birthday break.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Madeleine

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We had a FABULOUS time at XSpot. It is such a serene place. The view is unreal and Hilde and Roger are very hospitable. Thank you for having us!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deborah H.

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

Amazing views, and peace all around

Absolutely loved our stay. I've been all over the world and have never experienced this level of tranquility. The property has amazing views, is comfortably equipped, and makes you feel like you are at the ends of the earth. Yoga on the deck was amazing, Hilde was a perfect host, and we'll tell all our friends they must stay at X Spot on Great Barrier. A place unlike any other!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lauren W.

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

Idyllic weekend getaway

Wow, just wow! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay, the views were phenomenal, all the information Hilde gave us was wonderful, and the secluded feel made it even more special. I’d highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a special weekend away.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicolette H.

Luxury in the bush

Breathtakingly beautiful. It was hard to take our eyes off the views. The apartment was very well set up. We would love to stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2019
Archival

10/10 Excellent

We were blown away by the panoramic ocean views of X-Spot and loved watching gannets dive for fish.

We were blown away by the panoramic ocean views of X-Spot and loved watching gannets dive for fish. We found it very difficult to leave this gorgeous place, where we woke to beautiful sunrises and slept surrounded by the most magnificent carpet of twinkling stars. I'd highly recommend X-Spot to anyone wanting to escape to an untouched paradise and can't wait to return one day.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

YVONNE M.

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

The views are amazing!!!

Starting with the drive into XSPOT is lovely through natural bush and rainforest. Would definitely recommend a 4WD though. Once you get to XSPOT you’ll be so blown away with the amazing views you won’t want to leave.The cliff top apartment is very comfortable and clean. Host are lovely Hilda and Rodger, thank you for our peaceful stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen V.

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

Love, love, love XSpot

We loved this place - the space, the views, and the people were gorgeous! It's beautifully designed with high ceilings and massive windows that make the most of the views, and create a space that is lovely to spend time in. To top it off, Hilde and Roger were fantastic hosts. We will be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vicky W.

Awesome

Exceeded our expectations, so spacious and tasteful with views to die for. Would highly recommend. Thanks Hilde for sharing your knowledge of the 'Heavens'
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2018
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Dream accommodation! It's so beautiful and the best views I have ever experienced.

Dream accommodation! It's so beautiful and the best views I have ever experienced. It's so peaceful I felt very relaxed whist I was here. It's well equipped with everything you could ever want. Very secluded and no noise at all. Nice and modern and very clean. Super comfy bed and warm. You really don't need to leave.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ian C.

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

Best view going

Great property with an even greater view, 180 degree from the lounge and you even get a view from the bedroom. Great host will give you a lot of information about the island. Just make sure you have your driving skills with you as the drive to XSPOT is something and all the roads around Great Barrier are winding with amazing views. The locals are very friendly and helpful. A must visit is the Irish pub in Tryphena for dinner.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Henk B.

The Xspot website sums it up.

The Xspot website sums it up. Absolutely fantastic. The only problem is that the views and location are so splendid that you really have difficulty leaving to explore other parts of the island. The property facilities are designed for two persons, but space wise a dozen people would have sufficient room to relax and watch the panorama. We have seen some quite amazing bâches but this one was the best.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Absolutely STUNNING! Words simply cannot describe this beautiful bach.

Absolutely STUNNING! Words simply cannot describe this beautiful bach. It's located on a cliff top, can you just imagine the views!? I thought I could until I saw it for myself. SPEECHLESS. Everything you could possibly want for your holiday has been provided. Modern, well appointed bach, and did I mention the views?! Definitely bring your 4x4 as the roads are narrow and unsealed. What a fantastic adventure to Great Barrier. Can't wait to come back in summer :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maria C.

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

A stunning haven to relax in paradise

A beautiful quiet place to get away from the busyness of life to reflect, rejuvenate and relax. There are stunning views and spectacular sunsets from Xspot which is a modern, clean and spacious separate wing off the side of the host’s home. It has everything you need including a fully equipped modern kitchen, with milk in the freezer in case you run out! Hilde was the perfect, friendly host from start to finish, giving us privacy but also providing useful information about walks and other activities on the Island. While the 4WD drive up to the property requires care and focus, it’s definitely worth the effort. Thank you Hilde and Roger for opening your home to share this piece of paradise with us for 4 days. Would highly recommend it.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kay M.

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

Amazing location, accommodation and great host!

Outstanding first trip to the Barrier. What a stunning location this property is situated. It feels like you are part of the view! Accommodation is spacious and well appointed and built for the view. Go out during the day to enjoy the spectacular beaches and walks on the Island and return for solitude, quiet and wonderous views wonder when you return home in the evening. One small critique is it would be great to have some chefs sharp knives for cooking but other than that, the place is amazing and has everything you could need for a relaxing get away.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

helene B.

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

Fabulous property

Fantastic accomodation in a beautiful location. Wonderful hostess who had a fire burning when we arrived and some delicious fresh farm eggs in the fridge. Lots of great advice and local knowledge. We will definitey be back( the stars are stunning.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Natalie A.

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

Incredible views with lovely hosts

Peaceful and private accommodation with the most stunning views, especially at sunset! We visited Aotea for our honeymoon, and this was a truly special place to stay. It is very remote, and you definitely need a 4WD and confident driver to get there, but the views are worth it! Hilde was very friendly and helpful too :)
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

susan h.

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

Stop Looking, Start Booking

We've stayed in a lot of places all around the world, and this was one of the best. It's a simply magical place, and Hilde and Roger are wonderful hosts. It exceeded all of our expectations (and our expectations were high!) It's an incredibly special place - with an unbelievable view, and all the comforts you could ever want. The Barrier is a wonderful place, and you just couldn't enjoy it from a better place. It's easy to get around the island from here, and yet it gives you a retreat at the end of the day. Seriously, I wasted lots of time looking up different places to stay, and I couldn't have been more happy with where we ended up. A big thank you to Hilde and Roger for sharing their slice of paradise with us for a few days... We will never forget it and hope to return soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matthew H.

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

Paradise on earth

The XSpot view lived up to the description - truly mesmerising. We thoroughly enjoyed our 5 night stay and Hilde was very welcoming and helpful.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maree B.

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

⭐️ Amazing ⭐️

What a special place, breath taking views, everything from checking in to checking out was perfect. Hilde was so helpful in sorting a car as we came at peak time and limited. Thank you so much for having us, we loved it!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer B.

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

Perfect t honeymoon

Had a great time staying here. Hilde and roger were very helpful. Can get quite hot in the afternoons so remember to bring light clothes and was awesome to have be able to use the pool.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Philippa S.

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

Paradise

If you’re looking for a slice of paradise, this is it. Modern self-contained flat with everything you need, including organic eggs from the “girls”.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark G.

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

Prime location

The pictures do not do this place justice, I've never stayed in a place with views as amazing as you get here. The sunset you get from the house is spectacular. The house was warm, cozy, spacious and just absolutely incredible. Will definitely return when summer is in full swing
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susie K.

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

Cosy mini-moon retreat

What a Fantastic stay with Hilda and Roger for our mini-moon post Covid lockdown. Would highly recommend booking onto the star gazing tour run by Hilda. Amazing sunsets from our remote spot. Thanks so much for making us feel so welcome.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

About the host

Hosted by HildeH

Host profile image
Hilde came to Great Barrier Island from the Netherlands in 1999. She met Roger in the Irish pub, loved the man and the island and has never looked back. She has a background in hospitality management, but currently also makes a living translating on line and being a director of Good Heavens Dark Sky Epxeriences. In her spare times she loves to explore the island, go for walks, bike rides, swims, surfs and assist with sailing and surfing lessons for local school kids.

​

Roger has lived on the island since 1989. After a career in the family jewelry business in downtown Auckland, he chose the remote lifestyle that our Schooner Bay property offers. He runs an earth moving business and has reinvented himself in the last few years as a silver surfer. If you are a surfer too, make sure you ask him for some tips!

Why they chose this property

We built this property ourselves. The land had been in Roger's family since the 70-ies, and having lived on the land since the 1980s, it took a while and a subdivision to live our dream and build our dream home on the cliff. The attached but fully self-contained apartment is where you will be staying.

What makes this property unique

The views are amazing! The XSPOT apartment is light, modern and clean. Nature is right on your doorstep, with gannets searing past the windows and kaka attacking the flax plants. There are often dolphins and whales to admire in the waves down below. The sunset happens in it's full glory. This apartment is very private and remote, and with its amazing solitude, is ideal for honeymooners and stargazers.

Languages:

English, French, German, Dutch

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