Seahorse Cottage - Overlooking Onetangi Beach

Summary:

Tucked into the hillside above Onetangi, Seahorse Cottage is a classic older-style Waiheke bach with beautiful sea views, generous indoor–outdoor spaces, and a fully fenced garden ideal for families and pets. Comfortable, simple, and full of original character, it’s best suited to guests wanting an affordable Waiheke stay close to the beach rather than a modern or newly renovated home.



The Space:

Seahorse Cottage is spread across two levels, with the living spaces connected to the outdoors and the bedrooms tucked privately upstairs. Plenty of light fills the main living area, while wide decking at the front of the cottage looks out toward Onetangi and creates an easy spot for outdoor meals or afternoon drinks.



Inside, the cottage has a traditional bach feel with older-style furnishings, practical spaces, and a relaxed layout designed more for comfort and location than luxury. The lounge offers plenty of seating and large windows looking toward the bay, while a second indoor dining space keeps meals easy year-round.



The kitchen is full-size and functional, with everything needed for simple meals during your stay. Please note this is an older kitchen in keeping with the age and style of the cottage. There is a coal BBQ at the property and guests will need to purchase their own coal from the supermarket or selected petrol stations.



Upstairs are two bedrooms: one with a king bed and the second with two singles, making the cottage well suited to families, couples, or small groups wanting a relaxed beach-base setup. The bathroom is located on the entry level and includes a tiled shower and vanity, with a separate laundry area adding convenience for longer stays.



Outside, the fully fenced lawn gives kids and pets space to play safely, while several deck areas provide places to sit in the sun throughout the day. Elevated views over the trees and down toward the bay give the property a peaceful, private setting.



Seahorse Cottage is an older Waiheke holiday home that has not been recently renovated, and this is reflected in the styling, finishes, and overall condition of the property. Guests choosing to stay here are typically booking for the location, sea views, outdoor space, and proximity to Onetangi Beach rather than expecting a modern luxury home.





Bed Configuration

Bedroom 1: King bed

Bedroom 2: Two single beds



Guest Access:

Guests have full access to the cottage, decks, outdoor dining areas, fully fenced garden, and all indoor living spaces. Parking is available on the property. Early check-in and late check-out may be possible on request, depending on bookings before and after your stay.



The Neighborhood:

Seahorse Cottage sits a short distance from Onetangi Beach and its relaxed beachfront cafés.



Nearby options include Charlie Farley’s for casual breakfasts by the water and the Beach Store Waiheke for morning coffee or ice cream on the sand. Three Seven Two offers seasonal, modern dining close by, while The Heke is a short drive away with a brewery, smoked meats, and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere. Evening dining includes Ki Māha on the beachfront and Casita Miro for Spanish-inspired shared plates overlooking the vines.



Well-known nearby wineries include Tantalus Estate and Obsidian Vineyard, both offering tastings and vineyard dining.



Getting Around:

The nearest bus stop is in Onetangi, just a 1-minute walk from your holiday home.



Buses run from Onetangi and stop near all major wineries, including The Heke, then continue into Oneroa Village and on to the Matiatia passenger ferry.

Taxis, scooters, e-bikes, and rental cars are also available across the island. Parking is provided at the cottage.



Other Things to Note:

This is a self-catered holiday home, not a fully catered stay. We provide a starter supply of essentials such as toilet paper, coffee, tea, and milk to help you settle in on arrival. Once these starter items have been used, guests are responsible for purchasing any additional supplies needed during their stay.



For properties with a fireplace, stays between 1 June and 30 September include a starter supply of firewood. Additional firewood can be purchased from local petrol stations, Woolworths, Four Square, and Mitre 10.



Beach towels are provided at properties with an available pool or spa. Guests staying at properties without a pool or spa will need to bring their own beach towels.



The property is family-friendly and pet-friendly (pets on request).



Seahorse Cottage operates on rainwater tanks, so guests must be mindful of water use, especially during summer.



Minimum stays:

7 nights mid-December to mid-January

3 nights on holiday weekends

2 nights at all other times



Interaction with Guests:

Stay Waiheke is available 7 days a week, 8:30am–5pm for general queries.

For life-threatening emergencies, guests must call 111 immediately.

For urgent after-hours property issues, an emergency number is provided in your arrival instructions.