Our family and kids plus a friend (who traveled all the way from overseas to stay in Auckland for a week) went to Otehei island. We were assured by the Ferry staff that Kayaking would be available to hire. Paid over $300 for the ferry tickets and took 40mintues with a very sea sick kid. We arrived Otehei Bay around 12pm via the Ferry. Had quick lunch and went to the only activity on the island (Kayaking hiring). 6 of us asked 3 times and we were told the business was closed as he (the owner) decided to go fishing now. But it was only 12:30 not closing time yet so I told him will make a complaint, as we double checked before purchasing the ferry tickets that definitely has kayaking on the island. 3 kids on the island until 5:45pm without any activity. What a waste of time and money! 5 minutes later, another group of tourists went to him and hired kayaking from him!! He changed his mind! So we went again and he said he can hire to anyone he feels like, and he asked me to apologize to him otherwise no kayaking (he wasnโt happy that I said to make a complaint). No sorry from me and he didnโt hire us the kayaking. Very childish and ridiculous. We ended up swimming in the sea for 5.5 hours until the return ferry arrived! Consider carefully before your trip. Simply nothing to do on this island if this Kayaking guy decided to go fishing in the middle...
ย ย ย Read moreNestled on the picturesque shores of Urupukapuka, Otehei Bay Restaurant is like a cozy hug for your taste buds. The laid-back vibes make it the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy some seriously good eats.
At Otehei Bay, they keep it simple but oh-so-delicious. The menu might be basic, but each dish is a flavor-packed surprise that'll leave you smiling. And let's talk about the beer selection โ from crisp lagers to hearty ales, it's like they've got a brew for every mood.
Fresh seafood steals the show, sourced right from the local waters and served with a side of quality. The friendly staff adds to the charm, making sure you feel right at home in the easy-breezy atmosphere of Urupukapuka.
So, whether you're sharing a meal with pals or just chilling with a cold one and soaking in the stunning ocean views, Otehei Bay Restaurant is your go-to for good times and...
ย ย ย Read moreTerrible attitude from the moment we stepped off the ferry. A man in a white chef jacket pushed us away from the cafe saying their toilet facilities are not available to the "300 tourist flocking their island everyday"! Umm, isn't that part of having a business on a tourist island with tourists WHO HAVE ALREADY PAID? Very disappointed that no alcohol could be sold to anyone who didn't spend money on their expensive meals (a plate of chips does not suffice to order a glass of wine!). When we asked questions about their food/alcohol policy they were condescending in saying because we aren't New Zealanders we wouldn't understand. Would not recommend if you intend to eat, drink or sit...
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