Golden Bay Hideaway: Eco-accommodation at the northern end of the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Book direct and pay 25% less. — Hotel in South Island

I pre-paid $270 for two nights stay (16-17th November) in the house truck. After the earthquake struck on the 14th November, I immediately messaged Kylie and Lawrence saying that it was looking unlikely that we would be able to make our booking, as our ferry had been due to sail on the 15th November. When it was then cancelled, we let them know immediately and did everything we could to get booked on another sailing.

Unlike all our other accommodation hosts on the South Island who were extremely understanding due to the circumstances (and who all issued us with full and immediate refunds) Kylie and Lawrence insisted that we had chosen not to come. Demanding that we book flights straight to Takaka in order to honour our booking at the Goldenbay Hideaway was simply not an option - not only were they hugely expensive last minute, but all onward routes to the Kaikoura/Christchurch area were severely impacts at that time, we would have had no means of continuing our travel plans.

I was honestly extremely shocked by their cold and unsympathetic response. I understand the need for strict cancellation policies with a small business, but their refusal to refund even part of what was quite a considerable sum seems very indicative of the kind of people running this...

The most breathtakingly beautiful place ❤️ so glad this was one of the places we spent a decent amount of time on our honeymoon. Very much our idea of romance.

We stayed in Tiny Greenie. Loved falling asleep (almost) under the stars and waking up to the sun and birds every morning. The composting toilet is such a good idea and no problems with it at all!

We were pleased to have everything we needed in the kitchen (including oil, which strangely hasn't been included in the full kitchens elsewhere).

A great location. Far enough to feel secluded and peaceful, yet only a short drive to different activities and cafes.

Such a special place and so respectful of natural surroundings. Yes, it meant there were bugs, of course. The friendly Weka was a welcomed sight each morning and evening. She even brought her two babies around one day.

My only suggestion for improvement is to have a couple of comfy outdoor armchairs to enjoy the scenery when you're not using the incredible...

Kiwi Greenie is a great place. Stylish home, really well designed and built, very private and with absolutely outstanding views. The views changed radically with the tide and the light, so provided a never-ending display. The outdoor bath was really nice; while looking up at the stars, we saw a line of Elon Musk's Starlink satellites moving across the sky. There were several very friendly weka, so friendly that one bit my toe while I was relaxing. They would take any opportunity to get inside and judging from the way they pooped outside, that would be a real mistake! The composting toilet felt totally normal and there was no smell, so don't let that put you off. The place is very isolated, but actually very well located relative to many of the key attractions. We went to Wainui Falls, The Grove, Totoranui Beach and Anapai Bay in Abel Tasman National Park, and Taupo Point, all of which are best accessed from Wainui Bay. The Anapai Bay and Taupo Pt walks...