Best Bach Aotearoa: Ten of the best holiday homes on the market right now

Everyone who visits Waiheke Island never wants to leave. This century-old cottage is an idyllic character home, lovingly renovated and devoted to peacefulness. The property is located on the eastern end of the island, only accessible by 4WD. It’s views for days – catch a glimpse of Rotoroa Island, a protected sanctuary. Beyond that, look straight out to the Coromandel Peninsula. You could jet across the Firth for lunch.

The cottage itself embodies coastal grandmother, with hearty wooden floorboards and white and blue accents. With a shared mooring and only 46 steps to the beach (don’t worry, they counted), this is a pinch-me spot.

Sometimes all you need is a bit of privacy. Would an entire island all to yourself fit the bill? The rare opportunity to purchase a slice of the Hauraki Gulf has arisen at Motuketekete, nestled to the southeast of Kawau Island. It boasts three gorgeous beaches and hectares of lush forest (not the worst backyard).

Don’t worry, you’re not just buying an island. There is a gorgeous wee bach included, with two bedrooms and a cosy living space. It has power, hot water and indoor plumbing – so in theory, you could escape there for a very long time.

Arrive by boat and climb the stairs to a slice of paradise in the Queen Charlotte Sounds. Fence Bay is a dream location, and the property fits the bill. This section is 6024sqm and mostly native bush, flanking all sides of the quaint bach. Find three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large living space indoors. For all the time you’re not spending indoors, reap the spoils of the wraparound deck. Listen to birdsong over a morning coffee or read a book to the sound of the watersports below.

This is the epitome of cool retro bach. Perched on an elevated 1171sqm site in Raglan, this cottage is a nostalgic escape right on the water. It’s a quick stroll down to the beach (perfect for swimming at high tide), and a short drive to the main township. Otherwise, it’s total immersion in nature – old school style. We love the native bush at the bottom of the property and would definitely keep the fun wallpapers scattered throughout the house.

Don’t you love those properties that are dedicated to fully enjoying the view? There are windows everywhere in this Pukehina property, and two conservatories. It’s hard to resist when the view is the mighty Pacific Ocean. Everything is designed with comfortable living in mind – we wouldn’t blame you if it went from bach to forever home.

The best little baches are the ones that have been so rarely put on the market. This gem in Kaeo has been owned for the last 33 years, and it’s no surprise as to why. With approximately 26 metres of beachfront and flat lawns, it’s the indoor-outdoor flow of your wildest dreams.

The open plan sleeping arrangements are great for families and groups alike – the space can be easily manipulated to suit two or ten. There are also two bathrooms and a separate toilet and plenty of living space. And let’s not forget the outdoor shower. All the boxes are ticked.

Auckland’s Piha is a magical location, and over time has become a permanent residence for a growing, tight-knit community. If lush black sand and wild surf are your vibe, why not join the community? With three generous-sized bedrooms and a huge space for entertaining, it’s the kind of place to escape from the bustling city with a whole group in tow.

If you get sick of looking at the roaring Tasman Sea (highly unlikely), the L-shaped property boasts an idyllic wooden patio out the back. Shaded from the sea breeze, we can already imagine what book we’re planning on reading in the sunshine.

Like something out of a Barry Crump novel, this Foxton property is a rustic delight. The red corrugated iron exterior is a Kiwiana classic. The lawn is massive, perfect for cricket games and running around in the sunshine. Inside, you’ll find two bedrooms and one bathroom, all decently-sized and suitable for a family. We are particularly fond of the vibrant colour schemes in each of the communal spaces, from the brilliant green kitchen to the yellow stripes in the lounge. It oozes charm and tranquillity – what more do you need is this peaceful corner of the world?

A gorgeous new build near New Zealand’s original capital is hard to resist. With three bedrooms, two bathrooms and ranch-sliders lining the front of the house, it’s a sun-drenched family haven. There’s plenty of space to park the boat, a bonus for anyone keen to spend the day island-hopping (in the Bay of Islands, who wouldn’t be?).

The location is perfect too – the car ferry is minutes away in one direction, and Russell township in the other. A summer of versatility in one of the country’s prettiest paradises awaits.

If the 1950s wooden home was the first era of bach design, we’d consider this one the second. This 1970s-built gem on the Coromandel Peninsula has been refreshed for a new generation of beach-goers, equipped with double-glazing, insulation and new exterior cladding. We’re picturing a trampoline on the large yard, the boat on the driveway, and meals under the screen-deck.

More property inspiration:

• Eight delightful villas for sale that embody old-world charm
• Some of the most inspiring baches on Your Home and Garden
• A renovated bach in Whangaparāoa became a slice of paradise for these homeowners
• The most expensive houses on the market right now