Entire home

The Library Bach - A special place people love!

Photo gallery for The Library Bach - A special place people love!

A modern house with a glass facade, surrounded by native vegetation and trees. - The Library Bach - A special place people love! (Pakawau Beach)
Property video
A beach with birds near the water and mountains in the background. - The Library Bach - A special place people love! (Pakawau Beach)
A spacious kitchen with a large window, a wooden ceiling, and a patterned rug. - The Library Bach - A special place people love! (Pakawau Beach)
A spacious loft-style living area with a high ceiling, a wooden staircase, a dining table, and a fireplace. - The Library Bach - A special place people love! (Pakawau Beach)
The Library Bach - A special place people love! provides laundry facilities and more.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue
  • Fireplace

Add dates for prices

About this property

The Library Bach - A special place people love!

  • “Silver Winner Golden Piwa Awards" BEST IN HOSPITALITY
    Nestled beside an estuary and a few steps away from a safe swimming beach, ‘The Library' refers to the original bach on this property, a small relocated country library. This now serves as a characterful sleepout behind the main bach. The large section is quiet, bush-clad, bird-filled and has superb inlet and mountain views.

    The bach is private and open plan - think designer, retro-pacific styled, up-market tramping hut! Beds are in the loft and on the ground floor with no doors between.

    The bach's size, character and proximity to north-west Golden Bay's stunning beaches like Wharariki and Onetahua (Farewell Spit) help make it a wonderful holiday destination for couples or small families. The local beach is awesome too for swimming or at low tide for walks and harvesting cockles.

    There is great mobile phone reception at the bach.

    Extra features include nearby migratory godwits and other wonderful bird life, including kororā, little blue penguins, who are rarely seen but often heard and nest under the library sleep-out or wood pile. Plentiful cockles and pipi are a short stroll away at low tide. The bach also hosts a superb selection of natural history, children's and other fiction books, a large record collection, gas heated hot water and stove top, kayaks, paddle board, an outside bath and a composting indoor toilet.

    The bach won an NZIA Resene Local Award for Architecture.

    Special conditions:
    A minimum of four nights applies for bookings during NZ summer school holidays and a minimum of three nights applies for NZ long weekends. Otherwise a minimum of two nights. Rental is for a maximum of 3 people. Each additional guest per night is $25.00.
    Smoking allowed outside only.
    If you do not have the time or inclination to clean the bach before you leave, cleaning can be arranged for $80.00.
    Cotton sheets and towels are available for NZ$25.00 per person.

    Donation Scheme
    For every night The Library Bach is booked, a $5.00 donation is made to the Nelson Community Foodbank Trust Inc. The Trust provides food parcels to families and individuals experiencing hardship in the Nelson area and is a registered charity (No. CC29561) https://www.nelsoncommunityfoodbank.org.nz/. To date the bach has donated over $4,500.00.

    Previously the Library Bach raised over $7,000.00 for The Nelson ARK.

    Please check out my social enterprise in Golden Bay's Aorere Valley, 3km from the Heaphy Track. Te Whare o Kea provides cute and tiny accommodation for two people, is non-profit and supports the Kea Conservation Trust and local conservation projects. It can be found on Airbnb or the Library Bach website and is the place to stay for an early start on the Heaphy or a fabulous off grid get away!

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach

Internet

  • Available in the house: Internet access

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping on request

Location highlights

  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Bicycles
  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Bicycles
  • Housekeeping (on request)

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM

Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:

Strip any used beds and gather used towels

Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish

Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys

Please leave the bach tidy. Unless you have paid for cleaning, wipe down all surfaces and vacuum the floor.

Remove rubbish in the TDC bag provided in the bin on the porch and leave it at the letterboxes for Monday collection or drop it off at the Collingwood Refuse Centre.

Turn the loo and (preferably also) empty the outside container into compost bin. See instructions in bathroom and on info sheet. Disposable gloves are in bathroom cupboard but it is not a messy job!

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Property Registration Number -

About the area

Located in Collingwood, this holiday home is on the beach. Collingwood Museum and Mōhua Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Te Anaroa Caves and Anatoki Salmon Fishing & Cafe. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and surfing/body boarding nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and cycling. Visit our Collingwood travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Collingwood
Map
Pakawau Beach, Golden Bay

What's nearby

  • A clear lake surrounded by dense forest and a hill in the background.
    Te Waikoropupu Springs
    34 min drive - 42.0 km
  • A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, clear turquoise waters, and a forested hill in the background.
    Abel Tasman National Park
    53 min drive - 56.4 km
  • Pakawau Beach
    16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Pohara Beach
    44 min drive - 52.1 km
  • Tata Beach
    58 min drive - 59.3 km

Restaurants

  • The Courthouse Cafe
    9 min drive
  • Collingwood Tavern
    9 min drive
  • Collingwood Cafe
    9 min drive
  • Tickled Pink
    3 min drive
  • NgAngART Gallery & Cafe
    9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Library Bach - A special place people love! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at The Library Bach - A special place people love!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Library Bach - A special place people love!?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Library Bach - A special place people love!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Library Bach - A special place people love! located?

Situated on the beach, this holiday home is within a 15-minute walk of Golden Bay and Pakawau Beach. Collingwood Recreation Ground and Collingwood Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

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The Library Bach - A special place people love! Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 345 out of 376 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 31 out of 376 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 376 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 376 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 376 reviews

9.8

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a fantastic location and an especially awesome house to stay in, everything about it was just great and we hope to be back one day!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is our second time staying here...such a great wee spot to explore the area. We spent both evenings there with the fire going listening to records. The host is a great communicator and made everything very easy.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Delightful space, charmingly decorated with a local flavour, reflecting the gorgeous setting nestled in trees, looking over an inlet and green hills.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Love the spot!

Beautiful location, amazing beach just on the doorsteps.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stunning location, on the estuary and in the forest. Gorgeous house that is very well equipped but quirky. Warm communication from our host.
From the house’s deck at 9pm!
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Golden Bay Getaway

Awesome bach to relax & chill out in.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Golden Bay retreat

The surrounding bush and tidal waters added to this peaceful environment Bach clean and spacious and fully equipped Ideal place to relax and recharge Location good to explore the near by tourist sites.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place for a family holiday

Well equipped and clean batch in an amazing location. Many activities nearby (the paddle and kayaks were great to enjoy the bay). Good communication. Will definitely stay there again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Special place

Cute and comfy relaxing had everything you needed....truly special 😊
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Total relaxation

Lovely relaxing stay in a beautiful Bach, everything we needed to unwind for a few days.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bliss

Fantastic to destress and relax amongst nature!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect retreat

Quiet, warm and welcoming. Perfect for reading, relaxing and beach walks.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great bach, great to deal with

Awesome communication from Anna, great to deal with. Family loved the spot, especially the kids on the kayaks in the inlet. Would stay again for sure
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing spot and lovely bach

We had a great time. It was great taking the kayaks out from the back of the property and sitting in the outdoor bath at night. Very good location to explore up around farewell spit.Anna was very friendly, and the bach had everything we needed.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

My favourite bach

Once again a beautiful visit, comfortable, sunny, warm and a nurturing base for explorations and rest.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A slice of paradise

Our 2nd visit to The Library, we love the peaceful setting of the holiday house, it’s most enjoyable. We enjoy biking out to Puponga and discovering Whirinaki Beach.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Family Holiday

Beautiful property in stunning location. I would highly recommend a stay at the library bach; unique and relaxing, I couldn't fault it. We are family of 5 (kids 7, 5 & 2) and it was perfect. The penguins coming home at night an added little bonus.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Library Beach House

A fabulous stay in a lovely beach house in a fabulous location to explore the top of the south island. Anna was very helpful and easy to communicate with. Loved the sea, lagoons and bird life that surrounded us in its many forms throughout the day.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Winter Break

Repeat customers as we have always enjoyed this place. Being mid winter its great to have a cosy, wood burning fire place. As always communication with Anna the owner was good. Bonus no sand flies in winter.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Totara Ave is lovely

Great, but the steep ladder to 2nd bed is somewhat challenging for old girls with knee replacements. Great for a couple in ground floor bed.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful mid winter get away

Lovely location with amazing views accross the estuary. The bach is very peaceful and the layout is good for families. We found everything we needed was provided. Plenty of firewood was available and made for a cosy and comfortable mid winter stay. Hosts very welcoming and accommodating and provided excellent communication.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Penguin hideout

Tucked away at the end of a Totara-lined avenue between the Sea and estuary. Very comfortable Bach with lovely outlooks and a fab record collection
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect tranquility

A beautifully curated property in an enviable position, exactly what we were looking for. Everything you need for a peaceful break is here, including an old school Pye record player 70s vinyl. Special shout out to the Pacifica vibe. A special place in which to sooth your soul.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it

An absolutely beautiful place to be. I honestly nearly cried when I opened the door and saw the bach with all of the windows bringing nature inside. The estuary and beach are amazing. The birdlife incredible.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loving the Library

What a magnificent location - just set back from the inlet and at the edge of the trees with great views of the neighbouring hills. The Library is a very welcoming place with a brilliant host. Some really nice touches like the fresh local honey and to help make the cleaning easier, even a vacuum on the mezzanine. Beds are very comfy and kitchen is well stocked with all you need to make a great meal. Would love to come back.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025