Get ready for a relaxing stay away with plenty of activities right on your doorstep. Based just outside of Te Awanga, the cottage is the perfect distance away from busy roads but close enough that you can find a good local coffee in the morning. Plus, it's only a short walk to the beach (or an even shorter bike ride!).

Our wonderful hosts were so welcoming and accommodating, armed with plenty of local tips and recommendations. The cottage space is well thought-out, not only are they luxurious but very functional. We enjoyed the east-facing deck for morning coffees.

The first morning we took the e-bikes that are available for rent and biked into town while exploring what the foreshore had to offer. We stopped in at the Brown Dog Café for mid-morning coffee and a snack, right across from the ocean. On the way back we popped into Clear View Winery Estate for a wine tasting and lunch. Hawke's Bay is known for its vineyards and Te Awanga has three well know wineries within biking distance, so if you’re a foodie this stay is perfect for you.

One of New Zealand’s best surf breaks is located roughly 500 metres from the cottage, so we headed out for an afternoon surf. For dinner, we ordered fish and chips from the Te Awanga fish and chip shop and enjoyed a colourful east coast sunset.

The next morning, on our way out of town, we went up Te Mata peak for sunrise, a beautiful start to the day overlooking the whole of Hawke's Bay with coffee in hand.

Our stay was one to remember and I'd recommend Te Awanga Cottages to anyone who wants an easy getaway with fun and relaxing adventures.