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Starlight (Te Whānau Mārama) Cable Bay Nelson Secluded, beach front, sustainable

Photo gallery for Starlight (Te Whānau Mārama) Cable Bay Nelson Secluded, beach front, sustainable

Dining Inside
Dining Outside
Swim andamp; Kayak at the botom of the garden
Main House
Bathroom main house

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Cable Bay (Nelson), Nelson
  • Trafalgar Park
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Nelson Hospital
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Tahunanui Beach Reserve
    ‪30 min drive‬
  • Nelson (NSN)
    ‪34 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1 Southern Cross Room

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2 Planets

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3 Betelgeuse Room

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 4 Milkyway Mezzanine

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Toilet · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Starlight (Te Whānau Mārama) Cable Bay Nelson Secluded, beach front, sustainable

Starlight is a real holiday place. Form here you can watch the day unfold, the tide come and go the colours change and the birds feed. At high water you can swim at the bottom of the garden and at low tide you can collect cockles or pipi’s on the Estuary. In the evening you can saute your catch on the BBQ and wash them down with a local Sauvignon.

You can sit in any room with your book and watch nature going about its day or join together with family or friends at the main table or on the balcony to play cards or a board game or have a feast prepared in the kitchen or at the BBQ.

When you are ready for an adventure you can start small and walk the 1kM to the start of the Cable Bay Walkway and go as far as you like on this fantastic cliff top coastal walkway through farmland and native bush with a marine reserve below.
Or paddle a Kayak pick on the estuary paddle or a kayak on the estuary and go to places few can reach.

Down the road 3kM toward Nelson is Cable Bay Adventures where you can ride a horse along back country, drive four wheel motor bike along tracks and through streams, fly the sky wire or have a game of paint ball.

Maybe you would just like a really nice coffee or a light lunch at the Cable Bay Cafe.

If you must get in the car it is only 20kM to Nelson and from here a quick boat ride to the Able Tasman National park. In Nelson there are award winning restaurants, craft breweries, wineries, glass blowers and potters. Best of all when you have had your fill it is a quick drive back to the peace quiet and tranquility of Cable Bay.
The owner is sometimes on site in separate accommodation away from the main house.
Special conditions:
Smoking is allowed outside only

Extras: Cleaning (Required, NZ$80.00 per stay); Linen (Required, NZ$20.00 per person).

Property manager

Chris344

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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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
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Visitors and guests extra those in the initial booking are only by agreement with the host. Starlight has beds for 8 people. 3 Queen beds + 2 singles
Parking is limited on site to Guests and is a maximum of two vehicles. Extra parking is available up on the road.
A kayak (two to three person) is for use by guests within the Estuary only and guests is responsible for their own safety.

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
This property uses a grey water recycling system
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

About the area

Cable Bay

Cable Bay is home to this holiday home. Founders Heritage Park and Queens Gardens are local attractions and those in the mood for shopping can visit Montgomery Square and Nelson Market. Travelling with kids? Consider Nelson Fun Park, or check out an event or a game at Trafalgar Park. Scuba diving and surfing/body boarding offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and horse riding nearby.
Map
Cable Bay (Nelson), Nelson

What's nearby

  • Trafalgar Park - 17 min drive - 20.2 km
  • Nelson Market - 18 min drive - 21.3 km
  • Christ Church Cathedral - 19 min drive - 21.9 km
  • Nelson Hospital - 21 min drive - 23.0 km
  • Tahunanui Beach Reserve - 30 min drive - 24.2 km

Getting around

  • Nelson (NSN) - 34 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Nelson North Country Club - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Starlight (Te Whānau Mārama) Cable Bay Nelson Secluded, beach front, sustainable pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Starlight (Te Whānau Mārama) Cable Bay Nelson Secluded, beach front, sustainable?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Starlight (Te Whānau Mārama) Cable Bay Nelson Secluded, beach front, sustainable?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Starlight (Te Whānau Mārama) Cable Bay Nelson Secluded, beach front, sustainable located?

Set in Cable Bay, this family-friendly holiday home is within 12 mi (20 km) of Miyazu Gardens, Founders Heritage Park and Miyazu Japanese Gardens. Queens Gardens and Nelson Fun Park are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 20 out of 25 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 25 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 25 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 25 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 25 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.0/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

6/10 Okay

Isabella M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Listing accuracy
Birthday stay.
Property was beautiful! The most stunning views and convenient location. Unfortunately some of the kitchen items were unclean, sticky pans and dirty plates. we were disappointed to find that the property Manager also lived onsite which wasn't stated in the discription when booking the property. as we felt like we had to ask for permission to do what we wanted to (this was a 26th birthday trip for us and we felt we couldn't have friends there for dinner without causing some upset, and had to ask him for permission to do so which seemed unfair given the price we were paying) and that we couldn't enjoy the property as much as intended (having a bath/shower looking at the view) as we're were anxious he would see us.. i feel like this should be stated going further as we thought we were booking and paying for a private batch as nothing stated elsewise. Other than that Chris was pleasant to deal with, and the property is in a beautiful location with superb views.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tania W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cable Bay Perfection
We had a lovely family break in Cable Bay. The MTBer's had an awesome time at the MTB park. The rest of us enjoyed the water. Piwakawaka's greeted us and checked in on us ever day. Thoughtful details meant this was really a great stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laura N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Special bach
The bach is wonderful, views of the bay, every bedroom has views of the sky and stars. The southern cross room was spectacular on our last night seeing multitudes of stars from the bed absolutely stunning! Quite the novelty sleeping under the stars yet toasty and warm inside a house. Wonderful stay, it has made me consider how much waste we leave as a family of only 3 nights. I liked the fact that you have biolytic worms that treat waste water. It has also been an experience that the kids will remember for a lifetime, the time where they all got their own rooms for a change too. Thankyou. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Veronica F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Comfortable
We had a very comfortable stay. Chris was immensely helpful. The views from all the rooms are just stunning. We loved the dark skies for skywatching and enjoyed the kayaking. The kitchen is very well equipped and the bath with view of the stars just sublime.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Martin A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic location & accommodation
The Starlight holiday retreat, is the perfect location to see the Nelson/Tasman/Marlborough regions, with fantastic/relaxing views over the estuary & cable bay beach 5-10 mins walks away. Would highly recommend this property.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Claire O.

The perfect spot to relax!
This is clearly a cherished family bach: all the little details are so well thought through and combine to make the place deliciously livable. From the skylights perfectly positioned to frame specific constellations, to the insect screens fitted on precisely the windows you want to open to create a cooling breeze and the epic collection of games, it was sad to tear ourselves away - even as new adventures beckoned! We had a fantastically relaxing time here watching the tides rise and fall on the estuary. Surrounded by nature, time slows right down so you can luxuriate in every moment of your break. We hope to be back again. Regularly :)
Stayed 12 nights in Jan 2019

10/10 Excellent

Lita T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unique property
Starlight is a unique property with views over the ever changing estuary and of the night sky from the comfort of your bed through the ceiling skylights (starlights). Very special.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Steven C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Bliss
We arrived direct from Canada looking for tranquility, peacefulness and natural beauty to ease our way out of jet lag and into New Zealand and we could not have been more pleased. Property was accurately described, host warmly welcomed us and our only wish is that we could have stayed longer.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Emily T.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
OMG the Stars!
Chris has a slice of heaven with his place on Cable Bay. The privacy, view and night sky are outstanding.A few things to note, although the listing says for six, the host charges extra for anyone above two people and a linen fee per person. Additionally, the host is extremely eco minded, be sure to read what water you can drink. Bring a sleep mask as not all rooms have curtains. The location and sights are amazing and Chris is very responsive, We think with a bit more investment (kitchen items, towels, cleaning products, etc) and attention to detail (stove directions, laundry, shoes for the water, etc) this place would be out of this world.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ryan B., Westerville, US

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful bay view, 20 min from Nelson
This house is situated right on Cable Bay, and is a short distance of a very beautiful hiking trail. Our host greeted us when we arrived and was very courteous. The house was very beautiful, very clean, and the stargazing at night was spectacular. I would definitely stay in this house again.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robin J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Heavenly bay
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The uninterrupted view over Cable Bay was beautiful and quite meditative with the ever- changing tides. The floor plan of the house was unique and creative, and made the most of the space. Access to the kayaks was a highlight, along with proximity to all sorts of adventures and scenic places. Chris provided the perfect balance of local information/ advice and respect for our privacy -- thank you!
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Toni B., Victoria, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Paradise on Cable Bay
Just an easy 20 minute drive up the coast from Nelson, Starlight is a treasure. Peaceful, beautiful, well-stocked and with lots of toys, it was great for our party of five (grandparents, parents and 4-year-old grandson.)

10/10 Excellent

Tracy A.

Amazing Experience/Home/Views
Chris was our very first booking while my best friend and I visited from the USA. He was a fantastic host and incredibly hospitable. He had everything explained very well for reference in the event power should go out etc. Those listed details made our stay quite comfortable although we needed to refer just once, to his detailed booklet. I was especially grateful when comparing other stays we had in along the west coast, Chris was by far THE BEST host of them all (it’s not always just about the house). Yet, Chris’ home was most lovely, with the most beautiful view. It was clean and had good quality sheets (a huge plus to this gal) on the beds. We could’ve used a couple more towels since we were from another country, but everything was manageable and not a complaint. We played some of the games provided, and took in all we could during our stay. The only negative (and I felt there was only ONE negative).....the neighbors dogs. I’m a dog person yet cannot understand ‘why’ anyone would ever be so rude and allow their dogs to bark as much as these dogs did. Not Chris’ fault, yet they were annoying. I would love to come back to NZ and spend an entire week at Chris’ home in Cable bay, only next time I’d bring my husband and kids to enjoy.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

JAMES B.

Delightful Cable Bay retreat
We reserved the Starlight house without much knowledge of its specific location on Cable Bay. We were delighted by the amazing view and the ever-changing bay. We were out on the deck for many hours, viewing the bay, surrounding hills, and the intense stars at night. There are kayaks available for use and we went out for an enjoyable trip around the bay. The house is set in a heavily wooded hillside with plenty of privacy. We were only two people so we did not make full use of all the bedrooms available but the house is roomy and comfortable. The host Chris was amiable and we had a nice chat. We did not require anything from him during our stay but he was available for any need that might arise. The kitchen is large enough for meal preparation and we enjoyed several home cooked meals during our visit. We would happily return to Starlight house on a future visit to Cable Bay.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2019
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Charlotte S.

Delightful comfortable property in a stunning location
Delightful comfortable property in a stunning location. Having direct access to the estuary and being allowed use of the boating equipment was brilliant. We also just enjoyed staring at the ever changing view! Great birdlife all around and superb walking on Cable Bay. We would highly recommend this property and hope to return soon.

10/10 Excellent

Lori S., Cotopaxi USA

Great location, fun, big views
Chris is a great host. The home is well equipped with everything you need. Great place to watch the tide roll in through the big picture glass. Very relaxing spot.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Paul R.

Excellent location overlooking the lagoon and out to see, with beautiful changing scenery with the f
Excellent location overlooking the lagoon and out to see, with beautiful changing scenery with the fluctuation of the tides. The house is well located literally on the water, and is a short walk to the main beach down the road. The house itself is well-equipped, warm and dry, light and airy, with views to die for.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Lisa M., Wellington, New Zealand

We really enjoyed our week!
We really enjoyed our week! The main house is well appointed and with that view became a very relaxing spot to enjoy the Nelson summer sun. As a family we enjoyed swimming in the safe and sheltered estuary right in front and using the kayaks to explore the inlet. The boathouse provided the perfect teenage sanctuary, close but yet just far enough away to give them some freedom. Great spot, close to Nelson yet remote enough that you hardly see anyone in this little slice of paradise
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jessica S.

A wonderful house with fantastic views and lots of character.
A wonderful house with fantastic views and lots of character. We absolutely loved this place. Perfect space for our party of seven. Only bad thing was that we had to leave ;-)
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Irene P.

We had a very enjoyable and relaxing stay at Starlight.
We had a very enjoyable and relaxing stay at Starlight. It was well equipped and very comfortable in an idyllic setting. So close to Nelson city - only a short drive to grab meals, meal fixings or refreshments and a visit to the Nelson market on a Saturday morning is a must. Peace and tranquillity with the very best of NZ nature and bird life. The estuary was entrancing with its ever changing tides. Highly recommend a stay at Starlight.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Great location.
Great location. Easy to enjoy regardless of the weather.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

A wonderful relaxing holiday home with much originality.
A wonderful relaxing holiday home with much originality. A beautiful unspoilt location with lots of birdlife and water and everchanging light. Idyllic. A good idea to take your food with you or dine in Nelson or the excellent local cafe/restaurant. The local general store did fish and chips but they werent very good. Cable Bay is very tidal so fishing and kayaking are tide dependent. Wonderful history of telegraph cable coming to NZ AT CABLE BAY. The cafe has a terrific account of this.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

This place was fantastic for us, a family with 3 boys who are fairly competent swimmers.
This place was fantastic for us, a family with 3 boys who are fairly competent swimmers. The house is well-equipped and very clean, with superb views from every room & a great balcony & sun room. The ping pong table in the boat house was a great plus on rainy days. The estuary is super safe for kayaking & wading, and making our way out to the beach on Delaware Bay was a great experience (particularly for our ten year old). The view out that way, even on rainy days, is breath-taking.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

We had a lovely and relaxing stay at Starlight.
We had a lovely and relaxing stay at Starlight. A well equipped and very comfortable bach. Thanks for having us!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Great stay.
Great stay. Fantastic view, beautifully appointed bach, full of character Chris was very welcoming - and generous - allowing us to use his kayaks and sailing boats (bring your own buoyancy aids). Highly recommended

About the host

Hosted by Chris344

Host profile image
Your host Chris loves Cable Bay he is a keen Kayaker, sailor and tramper and also a lover of books and board games. There is a kayak for guests to use and plenty of board games to keep them entertained.

Why they chose this property

I love the change nature of the estuary, the tide coming and going and the changes in light adding its contrast to the ever-changing visual spectacle. The bird life is an ever present from Tui's and Wood pigeons to Kotuku, Herons and Kotare.
I like the fact that from the house you cannot see the lights of any other houses only the night Sky.

What makes this property unique

Only 20kM to the restaurants, cafes and the potteries of Nelson also fantastic craft beer and vineyards all within an easy drive.
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