An hour on a meandering ferry takes you from the city into a world of tranquillity at this cottage on the hill. With expansive views out over the Hauraki Gulf and dotted islands to the horizon, just pick what deck you want to drink it all in from.

At the bottom of the drive lays a picturesque bay that almost felt like our own private beach and was perfect for our young family to wade at the lapping shoreline. We didn’t venture far from the property but with an abundance of world-class eateries and amazing wineries all within short scenic drives, our go too was Oneroa for amazing coffee and views out over the water.

We had a bbq on the top deck and watched the sun sink lazily beyond the water's edge and felt any stresses we previously had sink away with it.