Wharepuni is set amongst subtropical rainforest and faces the Tasman Sea with the steep forested slopes of the Paparoa National rising behind it. Although only about 100 metres from the State Highway it is quiet and secluded. However, it is not totally isolated; there are other properties quite close and visible through the trees. It should also be noted that the view of the Tasman Sea is largely obstructed by vegetation so you just get a glimpse of it through the trees. The management photo on tripadvisor is a little misleading in this respect as it is taken from a higher vantage point than the balcony of the property.
The accommodation itself is good. The bedroom and bathroom is on the ground floor. Unfortunately the bedroom had a slight damp smell about it. Upstairs is a spacious sitting/kitchen area which opens, via large glass doors, onto an extensive balcony giving t views of the forest and the sea beyond. With much exposed wood and dark furnishings in the rooms we found the interior of the property to be rather gloomy.The accommodation is well equipped and the wifi good.
There are few restaurants in the vicinity, but a local lady is at hand and she will prepare meals if given adequate notice. We had these on the two nights of our stay and they were pleasant enough but rather expensive for what they were.
In the vicinity are the pancake rocks at Punakaiki. Further afield there is some beautiful coastal scenery with many quiet, untouched beaches and imposing cliffs. From Wharepuni, a short 5 minute walk through the forest, will take you to the Truman Track which leads to a dramatic beach embraced by cliffs battered by wild surf. Swimming not advised.
As with most of New Zealand's west coast sandflies are present so take your spray and keep the windows closed.
Would I recommend staying here? A qualified yes.
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The Wharepuni house was the highlight of our New Zealand vacation. If this house had been available for more time, we would certainly have stayed a week. If you like hiking and nature, this is paradise! This house is also the best rental in the area, since it has a good view. Well furnished, everything we need. Creative woodwork which inspired me to do a bit of the same, since I have lots of drfitwood down the hill from my house in Borneo.
Other reviewers, hey come on, You dont need window screens, they just spoil the view. Got sandflies? We had a few, but they are slow, stupid and when they do occasionally get in the house, they go hang out on the window panes and are easy to kill.
Like birds? Wharepuni is a bird meeting place, saw and heard many types of birds.
We stayed there for a couple of days in January 2013. Accidentally bumped on that place and decided to stay. The hosts were very nice and kind, they brought us groceries cause the store is far away. The house is amazing, we will never forget the sunsets on that terrace. We took the host's advice to order food from their neighbor - it was amazingly tasteful and beautifully served. It was unforgettable experience
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We stayed next door at the second house of the owner (Paparoa Whare). Cottage was clean and cosy with great amenities for a young family. My 5-year old son loved the rocky beach and waterfall nearby and the cheeky weka bird that almost stole his shoes! Provided an excellent home base to explore the Punakaiki area and surrounding west coast. Thank you to Brendan and Eva for making booking so easy and welcoming us during our stay.
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Really cute cottage. Suitable for us for one night. Walk to Truman Track and beach. Very quiet and relaxing. BBQ on top deck available. Kitchen ok.