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Bach 52 Rangitoto Wharf, Rangitoto Island

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Bach 52
Exterior
Little Shag
Rangitoto Wharf
Stool

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms0+ bathroomsSleeps 760 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pool
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
  • Ocean view

Explore the area

Map
Auckland
  • Spark Arena
    ‪247 min drive‬
  • Sky Tower
    ‪247 min drive‬
  • Auckland Ferry Terminal
    ‪248 min drive‬
  • Auckland (AKL-Auckland Intl.)
    ‪44 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 7)

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Single Bed

Bedroom 4 (Porch or Sunroom)

1 Single Bed

Main Bedroom

1 Single Bed and 1 Double Bed

1 half bathroom

Exterior Toilet

Outdoor shower

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Bach 52 Rangitoto Wharf, Rangitoto Island

Hi potential guests! The Rangitoto Island Historic Conservation Trust are setting up a new booking system on the Trademe site - Holiday houses, which will go live from the 1st of July 2025. A link to this new site has been added to the Trusts web page.
 
Until then, good luck booking here with VRBO

Bach 52 is a historic holiday home located near Rangitoto Wharf, thirty-five minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland.

There were originally 140 holiday baches built on Rangitoto Island during the Inter-War period 1920s to 1930s, of those 34 baches remain. They form an irreplaceable aspect of architectural and social history in New Zealand.

Bach 52 is a large simple gabled building with the gable facing the bay. There is no entry porch or veranda at the front and the extensive glazing on this wall is fixed. The Bach has a steep pitch roof with minimal eves. There are lean-to to the west and north, all is clad with fibro-lite & batten but, rough boards are also used. The building is representative of the island baches in materials & use of salvaged joinery and improvised techniques.

The domestic arrangements in Bach 52 were and still are basic. Water from rooves are stored in tanks and accessed by a single tap.

Getting there;
Bach 52 is located near the start of the summit track on Rangitototo Island. Access to Rangitoto wharf is available from Fullers360 Ferry (https://www.fullers.co.nz/timetables-and-fares), Auckland Sea Shuttle (0508 SEA SHUTTLE), or private boat.

Know before you go;
- Rangitoto Island is pest free – No pets are allowed
- Fullers ferries only operate Friday, Saturday and Sunday through winter.
- There are no shops on Rangitoto Island
- There is no hot running water at the bach
- There are no public rubbish bins on Rangitoto
- Check in is at midday. Check out is 10am
- Travel arrangements must be made separately

Special conditions:
The Department of Conversations biosecurity rules apply.

Small animals, ants, rainbow skinks and weeds or exotic seeds are the biggest threats to the pest-free status of our special islands. Gear that has been in the garage or even stored in the house could be hiding rodents, skinks, insects and seeds. Please help by completing the DOC Biosecurity checklist prior to your arrive on the island.

Extras:
Cleaning (Optional, $100 cash per booking). Please arrange this service directly with the Island Bach Manager. NOTE: If you have not paid for cleaning, you are expected to leave the bach in a clean and tidy condition.

As part of your booking you are expected to bring: your own linen, sleeping bag, pillowcase & towel.

Property manager

Rangitoto Island Historic Conservation Trust
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Outdoor space
Ocean view
Barbecue grill

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House Rules

Check in after 10:00 AM
Check out before 2:30 PM
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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
No Fires. There is a total fire ban on Rangitoto Island
DOC biosecurity rules apply. Check, clean and seal overnight bags and gear

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
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 indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Rangitoto Island

Located in Rangitoto Island, this cottage is in the mountains and on the beach. Queens Wharf and Auckland Ferry Terminal are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Princes Wharf and Queen Street Shopping District. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Spark Arena or Eden Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Auckland

What's nearby

  • Takapuna Beach - 39 min drive - 22.4 km

Getting around

  • Auckland Glen Innes Station - 11 min drive
  • Auckland (AKL-Auckland Intl.) - 44 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Narrow Neck Beach Cafe - ‬143 min drive
  • ‪Musashi Japanese Cuisine - ‬151 min drive
  • ‪De Fontein - ‬145 min drive
  • ‪The Coffee Club - ‬145 min drive
  • ‪Sal's Authentic Ny Pizza Mission Bay - ‬146 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Bach 52 Rangitoto Wharf, Rangitoto Island have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

How much does it cost to stay at Bach 52 Rangitoto Wharf, Rangitoto Island?

As of 18 April 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bach 52 Rangitoto Wharf, Rangitoto Island on 28 April 2025 start from NZ$161.0, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is Bach 52 Rangitoto Wharf, Rangitoto Island pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Bach 52 Rangitoto Wharf, Rangitoto Island?

Check-in begins at 10:00 AM.

What time is check-out at Bach 52 Rangitoto Wharf, Rangitoto Island?

Checkout is at 2:30 PM.

Where is Bach 52 Rangitoto Wharf, Rangitoto Island located?

Nestled on the beach, this Rangitoto Island cottage is within 9 mi (15 km) of Kohimarama Beach, Queens Wharf and St. Helier's Bay Beach. Westhaven Marina and Victoria Park 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. 88 out of 98 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 98 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 98 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 98 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 98 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Karen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Step back in time

The bach and holiday were faultless and surpassed all expectations. We did the summit walk the first day and Islington Bay the second. BBQ dinners and early nights. Loved that the bach was so close to the wharf and swimmimg pool, which we enjoyed daily at high tide
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Hayden D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great house in a great location

Great bach. The location is beautiful, with birds everywhere, and the history of the place is fascinating. Love the old-school feel of the place, and the booking process is really easy. Had a few issues with an old mattress but those should be easily sorted. Thanks again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

jackie g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful

I have wanted to come and stay on the island for years. The reality was even better than I could imagine. The bach is set up beautifully and reflects its amazing history while providing just the minimum necessary modern conveniences. I can't wait to come back. Thank you to the Conservation Trust for keeping this unique piece of NZ social history alive.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sabine F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic weekend at historic bach

We loved the bach. Simple but great staying in accommodation that was historic. We loved Rangitoto. We spent most of the weekend hiking. Tiring but very satisfying
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

leonie w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Like stepping back in time (in the best way)

What a wonderful place to stay! Host communication was prompt and friendly. The bach was the perfect combination of basic and comfortable. Jumping off the wharf before the first day-trippers arrived, meeting our neighbours and other island regulars, walk & a swim to McKenzie bay, the peacefulness of the location and the masses of tieke and piwakawaka were some of the highlights. The perfect place to explore, relax, swim and recharge. Thank-you.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jenny G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

First visit

I found everything in order and was glad to find a couple of blankets because I left my sleeping bag in my hallway! I think you need to be careful of your water use because the Bach is reliant on tank water. It was peaceful with a view of the harbour.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

5 night stay

We stayed for 5 nights, giving us plenty of time to unwind and get back to basics. There's so much more of the island to explore than just racing to the summit. Some of the longer hikes we did were to Islington Bay, The Lighthouse and Shipwreck Bay. Of course the teenagers raced to the summit too. Books were read, cards were played and the BBQ was put to good use. We had a fabulous time swimming, talking, laughing and watching the birds, wonderful to see so many Saddlebacks around. The proximity to the wharf made it possible for the children's Grandmother to join us as we were easily able to transport our supplies to this bach.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Helen v.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rangitoto Adventure

Fabulous place and loved the old charm of the house. Great location and so close to the wharf on Rangitoto.We walked lots and caught a few fish for dinner.An adventure worth doing again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Sally D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Enjoyable Getaway

Our only complaint about the bach is the description of the outdoor shower. It is in fact a solar shower, hung in a tree, which doesn't get the sun to warm it and has no privacy screen around it. Other than that, everything is as described, with plenty of cutlery, crockery, glasses and cooking equipment. Detergent, hand wash and toilet paper were all supplied, which was appreciated. The location close to the wharf makes it easy to transport your gear. The solar-powered chilly bin was great and there was a surprising amount of room in it. The outdoor BBQ and the cellphone charging point were also great.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah k.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic weekend

Great holiday spot
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sean M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exactly as we’d hoped

We had an amazing stay on Rangitoto and in the Bach. There is a perfect swimming spot just in front of the Bach that we made full use of at each high tide!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandie Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Delightful cottage stay.

Surrounded by lush bush the cottage was sweet clean and cosy. We loved the authentic, back in time experience. Our favourite was the “sunshine room”, at the front of the house. And nothing nicer than the outdoor shower. What a delightful privilege to stay here.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Zoe B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical off grid getaway

A very unique experience, like stepping back in time!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hamish M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic

A fantastic way to stay on Rangitoto in a traditional bach
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jamie T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend on Rangitoto

Had a fantastic weekend walking all over Rangitoto and Motutapu. Accommodation was fantastic, clean and tidy and a real step back in time. Highly recommend to stay here if you want to explore the island and catch up with friends
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Leeann T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday Hike

Beautiful, quiet and so much history in one place. Great way to get away from all the rush that life has.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susannah C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Retreat in space and time

Lovely way to get out of the city for a few days. Really special to be on the island after the day trippers head home. Now we’ve been, we’d definitely go back for longer - the chilly bin is full sized and could hold much more than we anticipated. Responsive hosts, great experience. Thoroughly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend escape

We had a fabulous time at Bach 52. It was like stepping back in time and we enjoyed the experience. The accessibility to the wharf was great and meant we were able to bring a little extra. We had a wonderful time exploring the island and listening to kiwi at night. Thank you so much.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lucas K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun stay

Great experience, thanks!
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Wendy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing back to basics

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this bach which felt lovely to be in. Some form of heating would have been great.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Connie Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bliss

Bach 52 is old school & that’s what we liked about it. Its no frills, a piece of history that is being preserved for people to enjoy. There is all you need to make your stay comfortable. The peaceful surroundings, the birds and many beautiful walks made the whole experience truly fantastico!! My two teenagers thoroughly enjoyed it, even the 4 hour walk one day to Motutapu. We will definitely stay again, it’s a good place to rest and reset from the busyness of day to day life. Thank you to the hosts.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nathalie v.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Such a great bach

We had a wonderful time. Such a cute, characterful and clean bach. Very well equipped. Enjoyed by everyone in our group. The kids loved playing spotlight on the green and we all enjoyed walking to the summit after the day trippers had left for the day. Will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anne K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome little bach

Lovely place to stay while exploring Rangitoto, we all enjoyed our stay. Thank you
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Graham A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Doin the TimeWarp

Step back in time no frills no tv - fabulous
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

About the host

Hosted by Rangitoto Island Historic Conservation Trust

Host profile image
The Rangitoto Island Historic conservation Trusts mission is: "To conserve and interpret the historic Bach Communities on Rangitoto Island for the benefit of all New Zealanders."

Why they chose this property

Bach 52 is recorded as being a property of special value in the Auckland Council District Plan - Hauraki Gulf Island section. Conserving Bach 52 ensures that this historic building is preserved and enhanced for future generations to use and enjoy.

The three bach communities are notable examples of an early twentieth century group of private holiday dwellings and boatsheds in New Zealand At Rangitoto Wharf, there is a settlement largely following the foreshore. Eighteen baches remain in this settlement. At the core of the settlement behind the wharf, various structures for community use or interest were built close to the wharf, including a salt-water tidal swimming pool and a memorial arch. This separates the settlement into two almost linear residential components, one facing the harbour and the other (which includes Bach 52), with a similar orientation, facing the cove behind the wharf.

BACH 52
1929 - Major Rigby Cardell
1936 - H. Oakley Brown
1955 - Gordon & Jean Baldwin

Major Rigby Cardell was one of the original bach owners. He was an older man and a bachelor when he came to Rangitoto Wharf. He is remembered with affection and amusement.

He had been a sergeant major in WW1 and suffered badly from war wounds. He had the bach built so that the doors were like a stable door, in half, so that you could leave the top half open at night and the animals couldn’t come in – it also acted like an extra window. (Jim Buchanan 1993)

He had an imitation green parrot which he would take and sit out in front of everybody in a nice big chair. He used to sit and watch the seagulls catch a flounder. Seagulls go for the eyes. In the very shallow water the seagulls would swoop down and peck the eyes out. Then he would chase the seagulls away. He reckoned he had many a feed that way. They put his ashes straight across the road at the little boat shed. (Eric Hart 1998)

What makes this property unique

This bach is managed by the Rangitoto Island Historic Conservation Trust (RIHCT). They are a not for profit organisation who reinvests in the conservation of historic buildings and the Bach community on Rangitoto Island.

Languages:

English

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