Matahua Cottages are located in Mapua, 30 minutes from Nelson. Karaka is a 2 bedroom self-contained cottage (with an attached studio - ideal for extended families or additional guests) and Miro is a one bedroom cottage, both are situated at the waters edge of the beautiful Waimea Estuary. They are surrounded by native trees inhabited by a huge variety of bird life. The estuary is famous for its wading and migratory birds: pied stilts, oyster-catchers and herons are daily visitors on your doorstep. In February and March Godwits come by to fatten up in preparation for their annual journey back to Alaska.
Private and tranquil, the cottages are perfectly equipped for the simple pleasures of a real holiday with hammocks, good books, board games, barbecue and brazier, kayak, endless views to gaze at and birdsong to doze to. The cottages are very cosy in winter with woodburners (firewood and kindling supplied).
For those who need to stay in touch with the outside world, the cottages have wireless broadband and there is a dvd player for movies on a rainy day.
The bustling coastal village of Mapua is less than 5 minutes drive away. Its busy wharf has enticing cafs and restaurants and several galleries representing local artists. The village has a grocery store, European bakery and a choice of pubs.
Matahua Cottages are a very popular base for day trips to the Abel Tasman National Park. Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes National Parks are also within easy driving distance for day walks. Located in the centre of the Nelson region the choices are endless: visiting wineries, artists studios, rivers and beaches for swimming, kayaking, tramping, sky diving, trout fishing and more.
Sunday Star-Times columnist (and avid bird-watcher) Steve Braunias declared the Matahua Cottages to be the "Best Holiday Cottages in New Zealand" in 2007, 2008 and 2009.
