Manuka Cottage is a spacious, fully-restored, 19th century cottage, artistically refurbished and furnished with a slightly oriental flavour. The master bedroom, with a king-size bed, is splendid with its black velvet curtains, rich fabrics and quality linens. Up a spiral staircase can be found a sunny, bright loft bedroom with a queen-size bed and king single bed plus two special Ming dynasty chairs. The modern kitchen which is partly timber and partly a cheerful blue colour, is well stocked with all the basics.

Bread and fresh fruit are left for breakfast, which you can prepare for yourself. The open plan living and dining area has French doors opening to a deck and a bricked barbecue area that catches the sun all day. A few steps further took me out to the back lawn and a cottage garden overflowing with roses and herbs.

This is a real little home away from home with all conveniences, such as dishwasher, washing machine and dryer, Internet access, television, DVD and sound system at hand. Features include totara and kauri floorboards, clawfoot bath, wood burner and gas barbecue.