Kokomo Retreat

Awesome location, as well as facilities. We can tell the owner has been thinking about every tiny detail to make it comfortable and easy to use. Please respect this place - so much effort has been put in there! It is worth respect and gratefulness. Thanks 🙏

Very clean and had everything you need. Lovely (communal) hot tub with fantastic view. Loved the private access walk down to the beach.

For the Kiwiana 2 bed apartment at the back, the first bedroom had a bit of a yard outside the window, some plants there would’ve been nice to look at as opposed to painted grey walls. 2nd bedroom a bit of a dungeon, just one high window. It isn’t clear when booking which photos relate to the Kiwiana 2 bed apartment. It states garden view however there is a photo of a balcony with a sea view. This however is not part of the 2 bed apartment. The barbecue and dining area at the front does have views, although planting is too high to see the sea, however being right in front of the other two apartments, we felt we could only use it as they hadn’t been booked.

Great location. Modern and comfortable, with everything you could possibly need provided. Beds were super comfy.

Nothing

Sehr gute Lage, man konnte gut ins Städtchen laufen wo es sehr gute Restaurants hatte.

Excellent location, private beach access, clean & tidy

Nice location and facilities well presented

Cockroach’s coming out shower fan. Bit noisy neighbour’s late one night through one wall

Stunning location and view

Was unsure what room we were booked into, didn’t specify on booking.com but staff were accommodating to sort

Great size and set up for a family, very accommodating hosts. Spa pool with view was amazing. Good range of games for wet days and great location. Will definitely come back!

The oven was a bit weak/slow to cook

The location was perfect.

If there were more people staying in the other apartments it may have felt quite different we were lucky to mostly have the space to ourselves.

Nothing not to like and the only reason we're a little disappointed is.......

The lack of the sea view. From the pictures we thought we would have a sea view from a balcony. If you hire the 2 bedroomed Kiwiana unit, you are at the back of the property overlooking the houses on the road. The only unit which has the balcony and sea views is the deluxe single bedroomed unit. So we were a bit disappointed on arrival telling our UK visiting family " Oh you'll love this place, the views are amazing" only to find that was a different unit and we were looking at houses. Yes the advice says " garden view " but if you look at the pictures for the Kiwiana Unit, the fourth picture shows a delightful view of the ocean - which you don't get from that unit.

Amazing location, very relaxing in a spot that has access to a private beach 30 seconds down the stairs from the backyard area. Dave the host was great at communicating any information beforehand and was a lovely guy. We stayed in the Kiwiana (2bdrm unit) and it was impeccably cleaned and smelt amazing. the living area and rooms were well appointed and had very comfy beds. We had the best time, walking distance to 2 beaches, the water was beautiful and our puppies loved it too! I would definitely stay here again, what a great place to stay!

Everything was great, no bad points

Kokomo is a special quiet retreat. A place to recharge your batteries, enjoy the birdsong and beach and relax. Dave and his wife have thought of everything you could need. We loved the location and the standard of the accommodation.

There wasn’t anything we didn’t like.

The location is incredible, the view from the bed each morning, watching the sun rise was amazing. Great room for a couple of nights, if you are planning to stay any longer, I would suggest the one bedroom which is right next door. Both rooms are on the ground floor, the main difference is that the one bedroom has a lounge area and the bedroom is at the back. The studio only had one chair and the bed with the bathroom at the back. They both are on a decked area, right next to the BBQ, which we didn't use but our neighbours did their breakfast and dinner on it. The BBQ area has an outdoor table and chairs and the spa is undercover. We didn't use the spa but it looked lovely. You can access the beach from the property but it would be difficult if you have any mobility issues. There were laundry facilities available for a reasonable cost which was great. The hosts were fantastic, they live upstairs and popped in to say hello. Our washing took longer than anticipated and we needed to get to the boat for the Hole in the Rock cruise and our host offered to hang our washing for us so we could make it in time. This was unexpected and very appreciated. Additionally, my partner gets seasick, our host very kindly offered her medication which worked really well, first time we have been on a boat where she has not been sick. Bed was comfortable, the kitchenette was great, really handy. Would recommend!

We would love to return but would consider booking the one bedroom next time as the studio has very little privacy. We elected to keep the blinds open for the view but that meant our neighbours had a great view straight into our bed when they were using the BBQ or outdoor setting. This did make us feel a bit exposed as you have to walk past the studio to get to the one bedroom or to access the stairs to go to the upstairs accommodation. We could also hear everything they said when they were eating their breakfast as it was right outside the studio. If you were travelling with others this would not be a problem. The one bedroom has the bedroom at the back so definitely more private and less noisy, however you don't get to wake up to the view! For us the view was worth it!

Beds and pillows were lovely

Lots of bugs and mosquitoes coming into the property at night. The 2 brm does not have a view of the ocean that we did expect .

everything perfect quite spot

Amazing location, clean, spacious and would be happy to bring the family back up to stay. Private beach access and spa. Early morning sunrises and beach walks. Perfect is an understatement.

Location and view spectacular. Host charming and very helpful.

Studio was small. Fine if weather good (which it was for us) as there is plenty of space to eat and sit outside with the beautiful views. But if the weather was bad would be a little cramped.

Amazing location, Great access to the beach, Nicely appointed flat that had heaps of windows and views to the sea. Nice garden and outdoor seating, Hot tub was nicely sited for the view

The fan in the bathrooms was really loud and the sound of the heat pumps were constant

Beautifully presented. Gorgeous views. Lovely hot tub/spa pool and we heard kiwi at night.

Nice comfortable room with everything you needed for a couple of days stay

The gardens outside are a bit overgrown blocking the view from our room to the ocean they are also a bit run down and messy. Could do with some nice flowers in the garden and a tidy up around the spa and yard . The unit itself we stayed in was lovely .

Loved the facilities and the decor. Very spacious and comfortable for my teenage son and I. Would comfortably accommodate four.

Fabulous view 😍 I stayed in the studio, as a solo traveler it suited my needs. Sitting in the spa, enjoying the amazing view each evening after a days kayaking & sailing was an absolute pleasure. A few minutes drive from Russell with fantastic shops and restaurants, the esplanade is so pretty for an evening stroll or meal. Comfortable and clean, well equipped studio room Enjoyed a walk up to Tapeka Pa - Stunning views

My room was downstairs with the hosts living in the apartment above, I could hear some inevitable noise from walking around and talking. But it was a minor inconvenience really for being in such a beautiful spot. Early Sunday morning another guest used the laundry which backs onto my room, the washing machine was very noisy! Some smaller espresso cups would be great as the big mugs supplied are too big for the coffee machine. I did mention this to the host, but he just said no ones ever made that comment before, and that was that. I found a cute espresso cup at the local op shop myself - first world problem ☕🤣

Everything, home from home and a lovely welcome

Nothing not to like

Great location just a short distance over hill to Russell. Lovely home with everything you need. Would definitely stay again. Thanks

It was the perfect relaxing accommodation for two couples wanting a proper break away. Access to the beach was fantastic, the spa was lovely, kitchen was stocked with all that was needed.

This was a wonderfully relaxing break with amazing views of the Bay of Islands and lots of information. The hosts were lovely and helpful

Everything

Nothing

Very clean and tidy, great spot if you want to just get away from city life. Stones throw from beach. Other family were around the corner in walking distance beach front property was great for the kids and safe. I went walking with my brother into Russell, the hill back took the wind out of us but was great got our steps up! The owners were easy to deal with very nice people.

If I had to say, maybe the aircon didn’t cool the house down as best as it could. We had all the doors open it did the trick.

Impeccably clean, lovely space. Good outside space. Everything you would need including a coffee machine.

I would have liked the hot tub to have been cleaned of leaves.

The property was clean, comfortable and easy to relax in. There were some nice walking tracks locally, and Russell was a very short drive away ( we also walked it a few times, but not generally at night). There were also laundry facilities ( useful if you’re travelling around). Dave, the owner, was very helpful, efficient and friendly, and offered useful tips for things to do.

Nothing.

Beautiful location, well equipped, lovely hot tub, friendly host. Kiwis spotted down the road!

Nothing

De ligging

Alles was prima

So clean, great area, lovely extras like games, magazines and a red light torch for nocturnal wildlife watching. Kiwiana is facing over the parked cars towards the Tapeka Point beach and I liked this because we couldn't hear or see other guests from our room once they'd left the parking area. It was a perfect level of quiet with view of ocean on the other side of the peninsula from the kitchen and deck. The beach below the spa pool is lovely and wild with dramatic coastline and pounded stones. I booked here because of the kayaks and proximity to water. Great lifejackets too. Only problem was challenging path down to water, and lots of surface rocks all the way along. I think the kayaking would be suitable for experienced adults.

The carpet needs replacing. Satellite channels are available but without subscriptions we could only watch Samsung TV or free to air TV. No SkyTV. Booking.com says our room has a washer and tumble dryer, but these are actually in a shared laundry room and it costs $5 to use them.

Try sitting in the spa and watching the sun come up on the horizon, with a private bay in the vista listening to the birds awakening sipping on a cuppa in the morning sun. Now you can truly say to yourself. Livin the dream!!! Oh but what a beautiful location and nice and quiet too.

It is a really special place and it lives up to the expectation of being a retreat. The relaxation element is definitely there if one makes use of the location and the facilities. Going swimming at the nearby beach and then into the hot pool in the morning with a superb view over the islands is fantastic and a unique experience. The apartment is very tidy and organised to present a clean appearance. Key elements are the quiet location/house, a degree of privacy and being prepared for the seasons, which includes air conditioning at the place, very respectable.

It was a surprise to see the steep charge for the comparably confined apartment. Places up the hill are $100 per night less, double the rooms/beds and double the apartment size. Sure, they don't have all the facilities, but it doesn't explain the pricing. Personally, we didn't really enjoy the bed. Both mattress and bedding didn't live up to expectations, and at least one of us had a sleepless night, which is not what you want. We were also irritated about which room we were supposed to be in. The BKD message talked at length about the property but mentioned nowhere the exact room for us. Irritating, in particular, if you are arriving late and don't wish to disturb the neighbours.

Perfect place for holiday. Very self-content and perfectly prepared for guests

Dave was a gracious host, friendly and helpful. The place was as described, living up to our expectations.It was clean, cosy and comfortable. It was located close to the beach and the view was beautiful.

Nothing.

The bed was really comfy, clean and spacious fabulous outlook towards the sea. I loved being able to have my dog with us and wake up and head to the beach and watch the sunrise each morning. I look forward to returning again one day.

Very modern, clean and comfortable bed.

Shower was terrible. Low water pressure and the shower needs repair. It was very loose and couldn’t tighten it up.

Wonderful

Beautiful location, easy to find building and room. Amenities were tidy and everything we needed.

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Great location, loved going to sleep to the sound of waves. Very comfortable and clean, tastefully furnished with everything we could possibly need. Special to be able to head out the gate & down the steps to the beach.

The location and views were superb!

The hot tub was murky and the temperature low. Very cold day and a soak would have been enjoyable.. The coffee pot was very smelly. The shower was great but spread water over the floor.

Amazing location right on the beach, really enjoyed the hot tub taking in the view. Very clean with everything we needed, lots of thoughtful touches. Loved the torches for our Kiwi walk in the evening, wonderful activity and so special we got to see them! Great communication with the host, would definitely stay again and recommend. Thanks again for a great stay!

Excellent views, quiet, self-contained, comfy and clean.

Fabulous location with great view. Lovely friendly informative hosts.

There is so much to like about this property. Traveling in May we had a number of options to consider in Russell, and as we were looking for somewhere quiet and tucked away yet close to Russell itself, Kokomo Retreat ticked all our boxes. The apartment itself is spacious, with a large living area, plenty of comfortable seating and a great outlook. The hosts were unobtrusive but readily available and the wider area is an absolute treat with quiet beaches, grassy areas and easy access to walking paths. Highly recommended!

Excellent, accommodating (offered late checkout & let my dog stay). Apartment was spotless & very comfortable. Awesome views & access to an amazing secluded beach. I will stay here again!

Fabulous location, close to the beach.

Nothing

The sound and view of the sea. The hot tub. The quiet

Could have used a sun lounger

View and large outside dining table. Very well appointed kitchen. Friendly host.

Nothing!

Very comfortable and clean. Nice garden area. Enjoyed the hot tub and the wonderful view.

It was quite small although adequate for our needs.

Russell is a great little town and this accommodation is well situated just outside of the town. Very clean and well kept. Hosts were very friendly

Bedroom itself perhaps a bit small. Could do with a bit more gardening and focus on the outside, also in enhancing the view.

Not included

The view was gorgeous and the property was quiet. It was easily accessible to the town by car or walk (some uphill). The room was comfortable and had everything we needed. We enjoyed sitting around the outdoor table after dinner with the other guests sharing stories of our day’s adventures. Dave the host was very helpful and nothing was too much trouble. The room was spotless, the bed was very comfortable, the shower was lovely and the blockout blinds meant we could sleep in for as long as liked. The kitchen was adequate, though with all the great dining options on the water, we only cooked one night.

Make sure you shut the door if you’re sitting outside in the evening, or all the little hoppers or crickets will come inside to the light. Not a problem to remove them. They are harmless but annoying 🤣

Location beautiful, clean & comfy. The hot tub was medicinal after the Cape Brett Walkway. Dave the host was always available for Q's and happy to help.

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great peaceful location .

Free Kayaks to use of the beach which is a stones throw away!

Excellent location, helpful friendly hosts - everything was as expected

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Beautiful location Loved the beach access and kayaking Hot tub also had amazing views Great facilities and very welcoming/helpful host :)

3 bed property did not have sea view. This did not really bother us, but just to be aware.

So close to the beach. Big comfy living area

Water pressure wasn’t the best and the view from our apartment wasn’t anything amazing. Possibly heard the dryer/washing machine at times as well. Car parking was difficult when all three spaces taken.

Location.

Views, location, layout of apartment

N/a

Loved the location, basically beachfront and a 1 min walk to the beach. The beds were very comfortable and the whole unit was spotless and very well furnished. Great kitchen too!

There wasn't enough winter bedding for my ageing Father who gets very cold at night.

Kokomo Retreat is located in a quiet area of Russell, so our stay was very relaxing. The views out to sea are amazing too.

Setting is idyllic, stunning scenery, quiet, millions of stars at night, kiwis running around and the sound of the ocean below. Not sure what more anyone could want!

Not sure I would go so far as to say "not like" but would have liked to have known where to put doggie pooh bags, it wasn't apparent (I had my companion with me).

The accommodation was very clean and the location was great.

Jacuzzi water is not clean. It smelled bad because it had too many drugs in it.

Fantastic spot loved the veiw, the private access to the little beach, the bird song, the spa the sunshine and sound of the ocean

Having to leave

Beautiful location - the ocean views would be even better!

Nothing. Immaculate white finish made it difficult to remember which drawers things were in on our short stay!

We are old tenants of 13 Rewa Place, it was nice to feel like we were back at home.

Reminded us of the recent good days in our home.

wonderful location, with an amazing view out to the sea. It was nice to hear the ocean and bird life as you woke up in the morning.

the kitchen has almost everything!