Notes from the host
Art Lovers Retreat
Summary:
Tucked among the greenery high above Onetangi, this hillside haven feels quietly removed yet close to everything you’ll want, calm, bright, and made for two.
The Space:
Art Lovers’ Retreat is a newly renovated, one bedroom self-contained cottage designed for two, stylish, calm, and surrounded by greenery. Beneath its high gable roof, the open-plan living and dining area feels bright and relaxed, flowing easily into a full gallery kitchen made for easy meals and long, lazy mornings with the doors open.
It’s the kind of place where days unfold slowly, coffee on the deck, a book in the sun, or a shared glass of wine as the light softens across the hills. The bedroom feels peaceful and indulgent, with a king bed dressed in soft linen and feather pillows that make slow mornings hard to leave behind. Every detail here invites you to unwind, comfortable, connected, and quietly romantic.
The deck sits between the two pavilions and becomes the place you’ll spend most of your time, shaded in summer, sheltered in the evening breeze. It’s made for slow mornings, lazy lunches, and easy conversation as the day drifts into night. Out here, time slips by gently, just the two of you, the air warm, the island still.
Guest Access:
The retreat is all yours, both pavilions, the private deck, and the peaceful gardens that surround them. There’s parking at the property, and the beach is just down the hill.
Check-in is from 2pm, and check-out is 10:30am. Early or late check-ins may be available for an additional cost, depending on bookings either side.
The Neighborhood:
Set high above Onetangi Beach on peaceful Palm Road, Art Lovers’ Retreat by Stay Waiheke sits nestled in the green hills, surrounded by palms and native bush. It feels quietly private, yet everything that makes Waiheke special is right within reach.
It’s a beautiful 10-minute walk down to the beach from the retreat, shaded in summer, filled with birdsong, and ending in soft white sand under-foot. Once you’re there, head to Charlie Farley’s, the local’s favourite beachfront hangout, for your morning coffee. Then stroll along Millionaire’s Row by the beach, look at the houses and maybe dream of island life.
Down by the water you’ll find Café 372 for lunch after your swim, and for evening indulgence, Ki Māha is a must, one of the island’s most celebrated restaurants, serving spectacular food right by the sea, ideal for a romantic dinner for two.
For a relaxed afternoon, some of Waiheke’s best-known vineyards are easily accessible, Stonyridge, Tantalus, Te Motu, and more are just a short drive away, and the local bus network reaches many of them. Adventure-seekers will enjoy EcoZip Adventures, soaring above native bush with sweeping views, and if you’re ready for golf, there’s also a nine-hole course nearby. After golf, head to The Heke, where craft beer and whisky await, and if it’s a Friday, stay on for their Sundowner DJ session from 4 pm to 7 pm, a favourite local way to ease into the weekend.
And when you finally head home, Palm Road curves you back through the bush and palms, that soft, away-from-it-all calm settling in again.
Getting Around:
Getting around is easy from Art Lovers’ Retreat by Stay Waiheke. The local bus runs nearby along Onetangi Road, linking to Oneroa, Palm Beach, and the Matiatia Ferry Terminal. Many of the island’s top vineyards sit along the same route, making it simple to explore without needing a car.
There’s parking at the property if you’re driving, and for something a little more island-style, hire an e-bike or scooter to cruise between beaches, vineyards, and cafés at your own pace. Waiheke Island is about 20 kilometres long, with most of our properties located within the first 10 kilometres. Taxis are available, though they can be limited and expensive, so planning transport in advance is always a good idea.
Other Things to Note:
Like most Waiheke homes, it runs on rainwater, so guests are asked to use it mindfully. Pets may be accepted on request, subject to approval before booking.
Interaction with Guests:
The Stay Waiheke team are locals who love this island and are always happy to help. We’re available seven days a week from 8:30 am to 5 pm, and for emergencies only, there’s an after-hours number so you’re always covered.
