В Новой Зеландии открылся эко-отель Te Karo Bay с панорамным видом на Тихий океан

Te Karo Bay is a 400sq m architectural residence set on 6600sq m of private native bush above Sailors Grave Beach near Tairua. Photo / Te Karo Bay Helene Ravlich signs into Te Karo Bay, for a luxury stay perched high above the beach near Tairua, Coromandel. Just minutes from Tairua but in a secluded bubble all of its own, the owners of luxury residence Te Karo Bay say the home is designed to be felt as muchas seen. Tucked into 6600sq m of private native bush, the 400sq m architectural build sits perched above Sailors Grave beach, with uninterrupted views across the Pacific from almost every room. Wrapping around the clifftop, the property also backs onto a 3640-hectare kiwi sanctuary. On quiet nights, you can hear them calling to each other, and glow worms can be spotted in the driveway. Location: Incredibly private and with only native birdsong to be heard, Te Karo Bay can be found at the very end of a long driveway directly off the road to ever-popular Sailors Grave. The residence backs directly onto protected bush and while it has neighbours, they are also tucked well away so you feel like you are in absolute seclusion. The house at the very bottom of the driveway has a kiwi-trained dog that we loved waving to as we walked up and down the steep driveway. You can ask for a meet and greet, but the entrance instructions for a self-check-in are incredibly simple: the key is accessed via a lockbox near the front door. You can also park your car in the large garage, with internal access and a remote ready for action. Even in mid-winter, the home was cosy despite its high, curved ceilings and impressive dimensions, and as the living area and en suites have thermostatically controlled underfloor heating, we were advised to keep the doors between these areas and the main gallery closed to maintain the deliciously warm, comfortable temperature. The room: We stayed in the en suite primary bedroom, which is thoughtfully positioned at one end of the home for ultimate privacy. Uninterrupted views across the water from bed are a given, and electronic blinds allow you to lie back and invite the outdoors in whenever you see fit. The decor is contemporary but inviting, with plenty of organic touches and a neutral palette so nature can take centre stage. The walk-through wardrobe is ideal if you’re staying a while and want plenty of space to unpack your belongings, and a small heater is waiting for chilly nights. The remaining bedroom sits at the opposite end of the home, also sporting superlative ocean views. The spa-like en suite next to our room featured a stunning carved stone bath, twin rain showers, a toilet and bidet. Designed as a sanctuary within a sanctuary, it came with science-backed, natural toiletries from Aotea, and there was great light for makeup application. Facilities: The impressive kitchen is built for entertaining, and packed with premium appliances and an abundance of dinnerware, cutlery and gadgets, so you can completely self-cater throughout your stay. The stellar saltwater infinity pool sits both indoors and outdoors, and there is also a barbecue and fire pit on site for lingering under the stars during the warmer months. On that note, Wi-Fi is via Starlink and seriously fast. A hamper of artisan goods was a lovely surprise on arrival, and the aforementioned kitchen has all you need for preparing a platter to accompany your beverage of choice. The deliciously cool tap water also has to be tasted to be believed. In the neighbourhood: With Tairua a 10-minute drive away, you have even more beach to explore, an abundance of bush walks and some great hospitality establishments more than worthy of supporting. The excellent Tairua Beach Club comes highly recommended for dinner and cocktails and, if you’re visiting on a weekend or in summer, booking is a good idea. Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach are also a short drive away. The best bit: I hate to bang on, but that ever-changing view of the ocean is mesmerising. Room for improvement: The lack of blinds coupled with floor-to-ceiling glass in the impressive primary en suite may unsettle some, while others will relish the connection with nature while lying in the tub. In line with its location, luxury is thoughtfully balanced with respect for the surrounding environment at Te Karo Bay. The property is supplied by harvested rainwater and uses an environmentally responsible drip-feed wastewater system designed to protect the surrounding native landscape. The retreat provides a natural habitat for abundant birdlife, with native planting and pest control a priority. Added initiatives include the use of energy-efficient lighting and refillable bathroom amenities. Accessibility: Te Karo Bay is a single-level, wheelchair-accessible property with step-free access throughout the home, including the living areas, bedrooms and bathrooms. The infinity pool is not wheelchair accessible. Price: From $1900 per night. Contact: For more information, visit tekarobay.com or email [email protected]