Matauri Bay Retreat - Shearers Cottage

The Shearer’s Cottage

A private, peaceful retreat set away from the main house. Renovated five years ago. The Shearer’s Cottage offers a relaxed holiday vibe with a spacious northwest-facing veranda, perfect for sunsets, stargazing, BBQ dinners, or relaxing in the hammock with a book.

Inside, polished wooden floors and cosy furnishings create a warm, comfortable space. Enjoy a couch and daybed, TV, art-filled walls, and a selection of books. Beds are made with 100% cotton bedding and wool duvets for a great night’s sleep.

The cottage includes a simple but well-equipped kitchen with tea, coffee, spices, and fresh garden herbs. Bathroom has good water pressure, plus a separate toilet, washer and dryer. Unlimited Wi-Fi included. Dogs are welcome.

Ideal for couples, small families, or anyone wanting a quiet, charming escape.

Property & Farm Information

Welcome to our farm on the hill overlooking Whakarara, the Cavalli Islands and beautiful Matauri Bay. This information will help you make the most of understanding everything our property has to offer.

Our accomodation features walls filled with artwork from our personal collection, including pieces by local artists and works by Teresa HR Lane. Studio visits welcome, please ask.

We are currently replanting native bush, orchards, and shelter trees around the farm. The trees are still young, but the landscape is thriving. As this is a rural property, you may occasionally encounter birds or insects. We follow a comprehensive pest-management plan, though nature sometimes wanders in.

Our water comes from rainwater tanks and is safe for drinking. During dry periods, we ask guests to be mindful of water use. While the property is not fully off-grid, we do use solar panels to support our power supply. Recycling and composting are encouraged.

Guests are welcome to explore the farm and the lake area. If you bring a dog, please keep them under control around sheep and ensure gates are closed. The farm fences are not dog-proof.

Your hosts — Pierre, Teresa, the kids, and our dogs Zane and Lila — live in the main house. We’re happy to share local tips, beach recommendations, and directions during your stay.

Local Information

The settlement of Matauri Bay is a 30-minute drive north of Kerikeri, off SH10, and sits on a loop road that leads to some of the most beautiful beaches, bays and coves in Northland. Our farm is located on the hilltop overlooking the sacred maunga Whakarara, the Cavalli Islands, and Matauri Bay.

Matauri Bay beach is just a 3-minute drive away and offers white sand and gentle surf. Out of season, you may be the first to leave footprints on the beach. Continue along the coastal road to explore more beaches, including Te Ngaere (boat launching), Piapia, Wainui, Mahinepua (great for hiking), and Tauranga Bay. The road eventually brings you out near Whangaroa Harbour and the historic town of Kaeo (about 20 minutes).

For golfers, spa lovers, or anyone wanting a luxury experience, Kauri Cliffs is our neighbouring property — less than 5 minutes by car to the restaurant, spa, and world-class golf course. For the more budget conscious northland offers a wealth of beautiful rural golfcourses.

For divers, kayakers and sea adventures look no further than the Cavalli Islands, dive the Rainbow Warrior or fish the deep ocean.

Despite our rural setting, the local Blue Bar — a small bar, dairy, and fish & chip shop — is just a 5-minute walk away and stocks basic essentials. The Matauri Bay Campground by the beach sells basic supplies and fuel

This is an excellent base for exploring the Far North:

Cape Reinga — approx. 2 hours

Ahipara or the Hokianga — approx. 1.5 hours

Waitangi, Russell & Paihia — approx. 45 minutes

Kerikeri & Kaeo (amenities, supermarkets, petrol, markets) — 20–30 minutes

The property has electric-vehicle charging, and space to park and wash down a boat. Free boat launching is available at Te Ngaere, with paid access at Matauri Bay.