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Unique Bush Hide

Photo gallery for Unique Bush Hide

Exterior
A living room with a white armchair, a brown sofa with patterned cushions, a small table with a lamp, and wall-mounted shelves with decorative items.
View from Kitchen to Fireplace
A sunset with a clear sky and silhouettes of trees.
A wooden deck with a table and chairs, a sliding door, and a window.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
  • Deck or patio
  • Internet

Explore the area

View in a map
Piha, Waitakere City
  • Place, Waitakere Ranges
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Piha Surf School
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Piha Beach
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Airport, Auckland (AKL-Auckland Intl.)
    ‪51 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

2nd Bedroom

1 Child Bed

Guest Bedroom

1 Double Futon and 1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

About this property

Unique Bush Hide

Unique Simple Family Cottage. Original bach built 1910 in beautiful native bush and tracks. Homestead cottage, can sleep 6 persons with power, phone and indoor toilet - tank water - overlooking Piha Beach and Tasman Sea 9.6 kms away. Very remote - listen to the Tuis and watch the sun go down. Waterfall on property and tracks. Registered with the Queen Elizabeth Trust.

This property is not suitable for pets.
This property has no transport to Piha Beach.

Special thanks to Ed Kanze, our family friend from the Adirondacks, for some spectacular new photos.
Special conditions:
Tank water so have to be careful with Water Supply, Custodian in separate accomodation on-site (shared telephone), No more than 2 cars as parking minimal - must leave clean and tidy

Extras: Linen and Cleaning (Required, NZ$60.00 per stay); NOTE: Under Kiwi bach tradition you are expected to: Clean the house and do the dishes before you leave; Bring your own linen (towels/sheets/tea towels);

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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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

Property # 20001449
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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Piha

Located in Piha, this cottage is in the mountains and by the sea. Waikumete Cemetery and Alberton House are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Waitakere Ranges and Karekare Beach. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Trusts Stadium or Paradice Ice Skating. Discover the area's water adventures with surfing/body boarding and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours and hiking/biking trails.
View more Cottages in AucklandOpens in a new window
Map
Piha, Waitakere City

What's nearby

  • Waitakere Ranges - 4 min drive - 3.3 km
  • Arataki Visitor Centre - 11 min drive - 12.6 km
  • Piha Surf School - 12 min drive - 10.8 km
  • Piha Beach - 15 min drive - 13.3 km
  • Karekare Beach - 20 min drive - 12.2 km

Getting around

  • Henderson Sunnyvale Station - 15 min drive
  • Auckland (AKL-Auckland Intl.) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Pukeko Cafe - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪The Olive Kitchen & Bar - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Tandoori Flame - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Piha Rsa - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Aryreh - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Unique Bush Hide pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Unique Bush Hide?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Unique Bush Hide?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Unique Bush Hide?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Unique Bush Hide located?

Situated by the sea, this cottage is 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Waitakere Ranges and within 6 miles (10 km) of Karekare Beach and Piha Surf School. Karekare Falls and Arataki Visitor Centre are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 64 out of 92 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 22 out of 92 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 92 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 92 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 92 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Carla S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We wanted time to simply visit each other and the fireplace was the perfect finish to beautiful surroundings. Loved the tree lined walk to the dam. I am happy to recommend this lovely old cottage for a peaceful getaway withh a wonderful view and back garden.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Peter W.

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

Great place to stay for a few days

Charming old cottage, gorgeous bush setting, and welcoming & friendly hosts - great place to stay for a few days, with lots of scenic places close by 😎
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Nov, 2022
Thanks for coming to stay Peter, So glad you had good weather and enjoyed the bush.
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Rihi T.

Beautiful bush retreat, great place for a writing retreat, this is what we used it for.

Beautiful bush retreat, great place for a writing retreat, this is what we used it for.
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar, 2020
Thank you for review
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Brian D.

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

Perfect get away!

We had a lovely time at this quaint cabin! It was full of history, and charm. This would be the perfect place for a writer to stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

ESTELLE P.

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

A treasure

Thank you Belinda you are a gem we had a great time beautiful views and comfy beds
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Mar, 2025
So pleased it all worked out for you and that your friend enjoyed his time at Piha. The pictures showed the kids getting great care on the boards. They would have loved it.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Milly D.

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

Beautiful spot

Lovely little cottage! We had such a nice weekend away.. beautiful views of piha beach and surrounded by native bush. Couldn't recommend it enough!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Jess A.

A gorgeous wee cottage with a special family history.

A gorgeous wee cottage with a special family history. Forest walks at the door step and stunning sun sets over Piha beach
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar, 2020
So pleased you experienced our sunsets, it's pretty special
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Greg S.

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

Beautiful spot

Love this classic character nz bach
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Anthony P.

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

Great relaxing stay

Bigger then I expected. Lovely house Hope 1day we own a house like that. Definitely want to stay 1more time.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jan, 2024
Thanks for your review, we love the cottage too, cheers Belinda
Archival

10/10 Excellent

It was our second time back at Bach.

It was our second time back at Bach. We both love the place, and will definitely go back. Very relaxing and so peaceful!!
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar, 2020
Yes, please come again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Elaine K.

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

Back to nature

Lovely quiet spot set amongst native bush with spectacular view down to Lion Rock. Loved the walking tracks and swimming in the dam.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Feb, 2023
Thanks so much for your review. We loved that you swam in the dam as well and enjoyed the tracks. More than happy to have to back to stay.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Natasha T.

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

Cute and relaxing place to stay

We loved this little cottage. The surroundings in particular make it simply special and it certainly has a homely feel to it. It is a little dusty, especially under the beds, so beware if you have allergies like some of our family do! But otherwise, a very special and unique place that we would stay at again.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Mar, 2025
So glad you enjoyed our cottage and surroundings. Thanks for mentioning dust under beds, cleaners have been reminded.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Katharine W.

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

Cottage get away

Great little cottage for a weekend away. We enjoyed exploring the tracks on the property and discovering the history. Good location to explore not just Piha but other beaches in the area as well Anawhata and Karekare. We look forward to returning in winter to make use of the fireplaces.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Michael J.

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

Amazing cozy historic cabin

My 17 year old daughter and I recently visited again after 10 years. It was like a time capsule - exactly as we remembered it. Highly recommend for historic cozy feel, gorgeous bush walks, and views of Piha Beach, Lion Rock, and out across the Tasman.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nikki S.

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

Special Experience amongst ancient Native trees

This old historic batch is nestled 10 kms up the hill from Piha beach amongst incredible bush and 600 plus year old trees with sweeping views down to Lion Rock in the distance. We had a wonderful relaxing time.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Stuart P.

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

Fabulous

Even in a huge storm this was a soecial place. So much history and aroha. Friendly, quiet and everything we needed. A real gem
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Feb, 2024
We were more than happy to host these guests. Its a special place. Hope they enjoyed it as much as we loved them choosing our cottage.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kanako M.

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

Great hide away cottage with lost of space

We found this cottage - actually 2 bedroom house - on this site when visiting to our children's surfing competiton. It was only 10-15 mins drive from the beach and it was quiet and peaceful! We enjoyed beautiful sunset view. The house was very clean and had everything we needed, including linens and Wifi internet! It was very spacious, the owner was very quick to respond to any questions we had. There is a really nice looking retreat on the site, may be someday we would stay there too! Highly recomended.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Feb, 2024
So pleased you had a great weekend. Hope the surf champs went well. Come again! Cheers Belinda
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Eileen F.

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

Mindfulness

The whare was a spirited home extraordinarily lived which reflected the land it was a part of. An authentic feel with no airs or graces but an experience familiar from another era.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jan, 2022
Thank you Eileen for your comments, so glad you enjoyed your stay as we enjoyed having you
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Phillip A.

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

Great Kiwi batch/cottage in amazing location

It is exactly what it says it is. It's an old cottage with character and quirks. Great views and bush property to walk on. Plenty of space. Bring the insect repellent if you want to sit outdoors! It's tidy and has all you need, but not modern.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

8/10 Good

Anne P.

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

Cottage in Bush

It was a trip back into time. So generous of hosts to share so much of their history thru all the memorabilia and journals left for guests to peruse with care. We loved it. View would have been memorable, had the weather permitted. But, we did get glimpses of Lion Rock at Piha, & Michael was v helpful. Tha kyou so much. Annie P
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Beate W.

Liked: Location, listing accuracy

Historisches Cottage mit alter Einrichtung

Wir haben hier 40 Tage gewohnt und hatten viele verschiedene Erfahrungen gemacht. Die Lage ist sehr ruhig und einsam mit herrlichem Blick auf Piha Beach, der 10 km entfernt ist. Das Haus würde dringend neue Möbel brauchen, alles war sehr durchgesessen und mit vielen Dingen vollgestellt. Mehrfach hatten wir bis zu 18 Stunden Stromausfall und somit auch kein Wasser, zum Einkauf muss man etwa 20 Minuten fahren. Der eigene Weg durch den Regenwald ist ganz nett, müsste allerdings mehr gepflegt werden, da er an manchen Stellen sehr verfallen ist.
Stayed 40 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

David H.

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

Amazing spot overlooking Piha

Neat forest surrounding with walks to explore throughout.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Anna J.

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

Wonderful stay

We had a wonderful stay. The house was lovely and we enjoyed exploring the tracks. So nice to get a picture of the history.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Anna M.

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

Piha adventure

What a gem this place is. A cottage surrounded by fantastic bush and bird life high above Piha. The bush tracks in the 7 acres of bush that this family has been looking after for nearly 100 years made this a magical spot for a holiday from town. The views are great and you can choose to drive to the beach at Karekare as easily as Piha. The cottage is a comfortable old time Bach with everything you could want including a great supply of old movies — Scarfies most enjoyed by 11 and 13 year olds.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Jan, 2022
Thanks for great review, Michael said you were an awesome family and would love it if you came back
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mark S.

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

Brilliant venue

A very peaceful haven with a magnificent view of Piha.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021

About the host

Hosted by Belinda

Host profile image
This unique property has been in our family since 1924 and comes under the Queen Elizabeth Trust which provides extra protection to the rain forest. Managing the 2 houses, on our piece of paradise, is a shared job between 2 sisters, and supported by our nephew who lives on site. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Why they chose this property

Because we want to share the experience of staying high in the rain forest with as many people as possible.

What makes this property unique

The rain forest, the sunsets, the peace and quiet, wood pigeons, the view down to Lion Rock, the 15 mins drive to Piha Beach .... and so much more.

Languages:

English
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