Entire home

Iconic Historic Seaside Cottage

Photo gallery for Iconic Historic Seaside Cottage

Lazing in the sun
Living Dining area
Kitchen area
Bathroom
Midsummer Nights Dream

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 550 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Barbecue grill
  • Pet-friendly
  • Fireplace
  • Parking available
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Purakanui Inlet, Dunedin City
  • Long Beach
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • University of Otago
    ‪26 min drive‬
  • Larnach Castle
    ‪49 min drive‬
  • Dunedin (DUD-Dunedin Intl.)
    ‪71 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Main house

1 Double Bed and 1 Double Futon

Merry Wives of Windsor Cottage

1 Double Bed

Midsummer Nights Dream

1 Child Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Iconic Historic Seaside Cottage

Restored 140 yr old cottage on the very edge of the sheltered Purakaunui inlet, just a scenic 25 min drive from Dunedin, New Zealand. Is a cluster of four buildings, one a cottage originally built by a local fisherman, another a whare Māori style room built of boat building kauri and another a railworkers cottage with a curved roof.

Although still faithful to it's historic roots, there are the home comforts of a full modern kitchen and bathroom. The rooms are tastefully decorated, cleaned and maintained to a high standard. There is electric heating in every room as well as a coal range. Electric blankets are on the beds except for the trundler in main house.

As featured in Life and Leisure Magazine, Jan, 2009. The cluster of four little buidings known as "As You Like It" since the 1930's, is a 100 metre walk down a path along the waters edge.

You can just sit on the deck and watch the fish just a metre away, or watch the sunset over the water, dig for cockles, fish off the deck or the rocks, walk along the ocean beach or row or canoe around the inlet. It's a great bird watchers spot- shags ,tuis, fantails, bellbirds, oystercatchers, woodpigeons, whitefaced herons, kingfishers, etc. A Dinghy or kayaks are available onsite. The white sandy beach can be accessed at low tide by walking across ankle deep water, or by canoe. At full tide the bay is full of water and great for a kayak around the bay.

Outings can include a visit the historic pa site, Motutapu and it's secluded beach, or the Orokanui Sanctuary, 5 min drive away. The new Dunedin Forsyth Barr Stadium is only 20 min drive away, access and parking is easy because you can avoid the crowds coming from the city side.

It is also a great base to visit Dunedin's attractions , Port Chalmers is a 10 min drive away, with designer clothes and jewelry shops as well as coffee bars and restaurants. Eating out options include the Carey's Bay Hotel overlooking the fishing village beside Port Chalmers, the Galley cafe or Portside Tavern which has specialty beers on tap. Fleur's Seafood restaurant at Moeraki is 50 min drive north. The unspoilt coastal settlements of Seacliff and Karitane are a short senic drive away.

There are many walks around the township and the boatsheds, along Purakaunui beach, around the inlet or to Longbeach.

Note:unsuitable for the mobility challenged.
Special conditions:
Two night minimum
Note that each bedroom-and the bathroom -are in separate cottages. The single bed in the main house is a trundler stored under the double bed. The buildings are clustered together and there are only a couple of steps between each cottage. Security lights light the way.
Please discuss bringing pets with us. A laundromat is at Port Chalmers if you need any clothes washed.

Check-in time after 3 pm check out by 11 a.m.

Extras: Linen (included); NOTE: Under Kiwi bach tradition you are expected to: Clean the house and do the dishes before you leave.

Property manager

barblm764
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
Please discuss with me first
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Pets

Pets allowed
Please discuss with me first.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Please discuss with me first
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Purakaunui

Located in Purakaunui, this holiday home is in the city centre and on the beach. Speight's Brewery and Otago Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Dunedin Botanic Garden and Dunedin Railways. New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame and Dunedin Chinese Garden are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and cycling.
Map
Purakanui Inlet, Dunedin City

What's nearby

  • Purakaunui Inlet - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Long Beach - 6 min drive - 3.0 km
  • University of Otago - 26 min drive - 23.1 km
  • The Octagon - 28 min drive - 24.0 km
  • Larnach Castle - 49 min drive - 38.5 km

Getting around

  • Dunedin Railway Station - 27 min drive
  • Dunedin (DUD-Dunedin Intl.) - 71 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Carey's Bay Historic Hotel - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Mount Cargill - ‬37 min drive
  • ‪Horopito Cafe - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪The Portsider - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Galley Cafe & Bar - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Iconic Historic Seaside Cottage have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Iconic Historic Seaside Cottage pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Iconic Historic Seaside Cottage?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Iconic Historic Seaside Cottage?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Iconic Historic Seaside Cottage located?

Located in Purakaunui, this beachfront holiday home is in the city centre, steps from Purakaunui Inlet and 1.8 mi (3 km) from Long Beach. Orokonui Ecosanctuary and Holy Trinity Church are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 386 out of 425 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 33 out of 425 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 425 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 425 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 425 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

steve P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place is a hidden gem
Loved our stay here. Such a cute cottage and the location is amazing. Highly recommended.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Aidan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tranquil Setting
Beautiful old cottage right by the sea was everything we taught would be outstanding
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

June M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
So beautiful
We loved this fisherman's cottage so much. It is right on the water's edge and so peaceful. There are lovely walks close by and the overall area has some beautiful beaches to visit. We would love to stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Keryn A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A very special place
Absolute magic. Already talking about when we can come again. A very special place, indeed.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

T & C G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A wonderful haven for the soul
Saw this property a year ago and the opportunity to book it for 3 days came up. Just the most magical place, so much to do and explore. The property is so well set up, we couldn’t have asked for more.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Dream stay
Beautiful place to stay for a couple of nights ! Amazing
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Grace L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay!
Such an incredible location! I don’t think the photos quite do it justice. We loved sitting on the porch watching the tides change. Even had a sea lion come past! Wonderful to be able to use the kayaks and explore.The cottage is warm,cosy and has everything you need. Thanks for the stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jane G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Long Weekend Stay
Excellent location, charming property, full of character.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Xanthe H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Big thanks
Amazing memorable holiday, thank you. The cottage is beautifully and thoughtfully kitted out.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lee Ann R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect place to stay
What a wonderful place to spend time. The house was well equipped and comfortable with everything you might need. Being right by the water provided endless entertainment. Birds fish and even a seal came by. Our hose was very helpful allowing us to stayanother night when our next accomidation fell thru.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
“As Ye Like Ot” - We LOVED it!!!
We had a wonderful 3 days at this magical, historic spot right on the water’s edge. It’s fun and funky and wouldn’t be for everyone, but we found it to be perfection. The beauty and serenity are mesmerizing!Our favorite times here were out on the deck, mere feet from the inlet, watching the ever changing tides and the play of light on the inlet, the clouds and surrounding hills. We played some games, splashed in the water, drank some wines and fixed some good meals. This special place will stay in our memories (and our dreams forever!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

eilen s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Didn’t want to leave
This crib is so unique, historic, quaint, picturesque and away from the beaten tourist track! We loved it! Thanks Barbara for making this haven available to us!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bruce R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sweet visit
We returned to this cottage after 15 years. Everything is almost the same. Nicely kept. Same amazing views. We kayaked to the beach, picked and cooked clams, had the best sleep. Very relaxing and beautiful. Thanks
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jacqui M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing
Wow what a find! We had a great time - a place to make memories that is for sure. We would love to get the chance to stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Philip J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
So special
Just so special and gorgeous being so close to the water and of course have sea lions swimming up and down is an added bonus
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unique Bach
This is the third time we have stayed in this bach with our dog, we love the location and the uniqueness of the bach itself. It is cosy and welcoming. Our guests have loved it too. It has a fantastic outlook that's always changing.Would recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Parkes F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stunning Spot
Had everything you could possibly need and a beautiful outlook to nature.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Charlie F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
seaside nook
Pūrākaunui inlet is a dreamscape. Sitting on the edge of another world is a seaside cottage as if cut out of a story book
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tayne D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Brilliant spot
Loved the peace and serenity of this property. Highly recommend. It is a beautiful, hidden gem only 30 minutes outside of Dunedin, feels like another world.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Anna R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Little piece of paradise
Beautiful restful location and curiously appealing accommodation right in the middle of an ever changing environment. A quirky fun place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pleasant Surprise lovely cottage with great estuary views
Loved the historic cottage and watching the estuary wildlife as the tide ebbed and flowed. It was like an aquarium full os sealife. Enjoyed relaxing on the porch watching the sunset and wildlife.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Charlotte Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous location!!
Such a special couple of days spent in this sweet little cottage beside the Sea. Couldn’t recommend more highly!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ron D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot
Outstanding cottage and stunning location.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Philippa R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Utterly Unique
We absolutely loved our time at Barbara's place. It's so unique with its spectacular position on the water's edge. Being so close to the tidal movement and able to enjoy the changing view was very special for us. The cottage itself is charming, really well kitted out and cosily comfortable. One of our most memorable stays.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeremy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tranquil Kiwi Crib
A really lovely, tranquil place to stay. I think this crib must be unique for being literally right on the water's edge.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

About the host

Hosted by barblm764

Host profile image
My grandfather first brought a house in Purakaunui in the 1920’s and it has been a family favourite ever since. I was brought up in Dunedin, taught at a local high school, went back to University as a young mum and trained as a clinical psychologist in the 80’s. Buying As You Like It was a childhood dream and we spent many years bringing it up to modern living standard and restoring its original features. After 20 yrs as a psychologist, I brought a country hotel in Naseby, Central Otago as a complete change. The goal was to restore the 1863 building as I had As You Like It. Now life is a bit more peaceful, living at Purakaunui and enjoying seeing people enjoy Purakaunui as I do.

Why they chose this property

It is so unique.. a modest, charming and likeable house close to the water. So close it feels like living in a boat.. but not getting sea sick. As a child I always wanted this place... so intimately close to the sea and so easy to get back home to get warm and dry after a days adventures in the sand and sea. The only traffic is by boat or walking which makes for such a peaceful place, yet not isolated. I love the sense of history, getting a feel for how people lived a hundred years ago, but still enjoying some modern comforts.

What makes this property unique

Historic and unique to be so surrounded by the sea.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests