Perched on a hilltop, Cubby House Stay offers a unique retreat with elevated views over farmlands to the sea and Seaward Kaikoura Ranges. Enjoy your own private 2-storey house with 3 bedrooms, piano, guitar and wall hung TV for entertainment; wake up to bird song and distant ocean sounds.
Reviews
9.89.8 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6
Popular amenities
Ocean view
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free Wi-Fi
The current price is NZ$840
NZ$840
includes taxes & fees
15 Mar - 16 Mar
Add dates for prices
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
NOT JUST A STAY, we are a stay you will remember!
We aren't just a stay in a room - we are an experience you will remember! If you are travelling alone, a couple, a family or friends on tour - LOOK NO FURTHER! A clean, unique, private, very cosy, 2 storey, 3 bedroom house all to yourself. Situated on a small hill with magnificent views over farmlands to the sea & back to the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges and township. You will not be disappointed with the elevated views, the property, our friendly animals, or us!
We are offering our guests to come and experience some of our lifestyle and your stay is in a unique and quirky 3 bedroom house built mostly from recycled and reclaimed materials. Your house is clean, self contained and makes this an affordable holiday accommodation with stunning views, peace and privacy that you will remember! 3 bedrooms & can sleep 6+. Downstairs: 2 bedrooms 1 with a Queen and the other with 2 single beds and a cot. Loungeroom has comfortable lounges, a wall hung tv with heaps of streaming services (netflix, sky, neon, disney+, tvnz, prime). Chess set that is just awesome, a huge amount of board games to keep everyone entertained. Piano, guitar. Laundry with washing machine and cleaning products, dryer. Bathroom with shower and small bath combination, shampoo, conditioner, soaps and all towels and linens provided. Upstairs is an open plan if you think loft/studio style containing a king bed, kitchen, dining table and small sitting area with a queen pull out sofa bed, fantastic elevated views of mountains, farmlands, sea and township. Again, the Cubby House Stay is well stocked and should surprise you.
We are perched on a hill top, a short 8 minute scenic drive north of Kaikoura, the Cubby House is easily accessible from the main State Highway 1 in a rural setting with never ending views. These stunning views over farmlands from the mountains to the sea will take your breath away. Wake up to bird song, including Tuis and Bellbirds, and the distant sound of the ocean.
The Cubby House is private and peaceful as it is just us here and we are up the drive in a seperate house. Yes, we are ideal for those who are travelling alone, couple, 2 couples travelling together or a family or small group up to 6 people. Our farm animals and pets have quirky personalities and love to be patted, scratched and hand fed - you will love getting up close to the animals if you choose to and we will even take the photos of you and animals so you can totally enjoy your experience. You wont be disappointed! Special conditions: NOTE: THERE IS NO SMOKING in or around the property! if you absolutely must please see us before you light up! All children and additional guests are charged at the additional guest rate of $40 per person (ages 0-99) as we don’t age discriminate here! :-) There is a cot set up in the single room and also have a port a cot available if required.
Wifi - YES we have wifi - code will be given in an email prior to your arrival.
CLEANING - all we ask is that you rinse and place your used kitchen utensils pots, pans, glasses, plates etc in the dishwasher. If you play board games that they are packed away properly again so pieces aren’t missing. .
This is your own 2 storey house with the comforts of home. It is private. Breakfast is also supplied in the house so you can cook whenever you are ready.
THE LAYOUT: DOWNSTAIRS: Laundry (Washer & Dryer), Bathroom (shower & bath combination), Lounge room, TV, games, 2 separate bedrooms - one with a queen size bed & the other with 2 single beds. A deck outside the lounge room with table and chairs to sit back and enjoy the views. UPSTAIRS: is just like an open plan studio/loft apartment. 1 x King size bed, kitchen with everything you will need to cook with - want something else just ask us. Dining table and small lounge/sitting with a queen size pull out sofa bed area plus a deck to get the best elevated views of the deck below.
Property amenities
Beach
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Ski
Close to skiing
Snowboarding nearby
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Car not required
Onsite parking options include a garage
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee grinder
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Ice maker
Kitchenette
Lobster/crab pot
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Dining
Free breakfast available
Dining table
Bedrooms
3 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Sofa bed
Bathroom
1 bathroom
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Entertainment
Books
Games
Music library
Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
Stereo
Outdoor areas
Balcony
Barbecue grill
Fenced yard
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washer/dryer
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Safe
Location highlights
In a rural location
In the mountains
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near the bay
Near the sea
Things to do
Arcade/game room
Billiards/pool table
Golf
Kayak
Snow sports gear
Basketball nearby
Birdwatching nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Hunting nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Mountain climbing nearby
Rafting nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Snorkelling nearby
Spelunking nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Whale watching nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Winery tours 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)
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
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
We should mention
A car is not required for transport to and from this property
Property is also known as
Not Just a Stay we are a Stay Experience you Will Remember!
Not Just Stay we are Stay Experience you Will Remember House
Not Just Stay we are Stay Experience you Will Remember House
Not Just Stay we are Stay Experience you Will Remember
Not Just a Stay we are a Stay Experience you Will Remember!
Not Just a Stay we are a Stay Experience you Will Remember!
NOT Just A Stay we are a Stay Experience you Will Remember!
About the area
Located in Hapuku, this holiday home is in a rural area and by the sea. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Kaikoura Beach and Peninsula Walkway, while Kaikoura Museum and Kaikoura District Museum are cultural highlights. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching. Visit our Hapuku travel guide
Is NOT JUST A STAY, we are a stay you will remember! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at NOT JUST A STAY, we are a stay you will remember!?
As of 13 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at NOT JUST A STAY, we are a stay you will remember! on 15 Mar 2026 start from NZ$840, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at NOT JUST A STAY, we are a stay you will remember!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at NOT JUST A STAY, we are a stay you will remember!?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at NOT JUST A STAY, we are a stay you will remember!?
Checkout is at 10:30 AM.
Where is NOT JUST A STAY, we are a stay you will remember! located?
Located by the sea, this family-friendly holiday home is within 6 mi (10 km) of Kaikoura Beach, Kaikoura Museum, and Kaikoura District Museum. Fyffe View Ranch Adventure Park and Peninsula Walkway are also within 9 miles (15 km).
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NOT JUST A STAY, we are a stay you will remember! 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.
Wonderful stay at Cubby House in Kaikoura! Leanne and Richard have created an oasis complete with an amazing view and friendly-furry-4-legged greeters. We traveled in NZ for over 2 weeks and Cubby House was the only place we stayed that had this level of charm, the most amazing coffee machine ever, and a fridge full of wonderful breakfast ingredients. If the opportunity arises, we will certainly be back.
Anne-Claire F.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2022
10/10 Excellent
Anton
7 Jan 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Richard and LeAnne are wonderful hosts with a beautiful property. The stay was an adventure on its own with LeAnne giving us a tour of animals that was better than any petting zoo. Everyone loved the stay and we are sure to book again.
Anton
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020
This review is from a guest who booked and stayed through a partner site and can't be verified.
8/10 Good
7 Oct 2020
This is a very unique property with a real heritage, a lot of character and views to die for.
This is a very unique property with a real heritage, a lot of character and views to die for. My son really enjoyed the daily routine of feeding pigs, collecting eggs and giving carrots to the donkey and the sheep. We had a great time.
10/10 Excellent
Ulf S., Canterbury, United Kingdom
6 Apr 2019
A place to inspire
This is a truly magnificent place, high above the Kaikoura bay, with the snow-capped mountains in the distance, you will feel both inspired and welcome, a million miles away from home.
Ulf S.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019
This review is from a guest who booked and stayed through a partner site and can't be verified.
8/10 Good
Chris B.
2 Sept 2018
Great spot with unique views of Kaikoura
Great spot with unique views of Kaikoura. Close to town.
Chris B.
This review is from a guest who booked and stayed through a partner site and can't be verified.
8/10 Good
Andrea D.
13 Jun 2018
Charming and unique house on an amazing piece of property
Charming and unique house on an amazing piece of property.
Andrea D.
This review is from a guest who booked and stayed through a partner site and can't be verified.
8/10 Good
Jim C.
5 May 2018
We loved the open loft style with stunning views back towards Kaikoura, down the driveway and back t
We loved the open loft style with stunning views back towards Kaikoura, down the driveway and back towards the mountains
Jim C.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
Tammy F., Beaverton, Oregon
15 Nov 2017
We absolutely loved our stay at the Artist's Retreat.
We absolutely loved our stay at the Artist's Retreat. The views from every window are spectacular. The cottage itself has so much charm and character. Our favorite part was waking up, making great coffee and eggs in the kitchen and just enjoying the morning views from the balcony. This is a beautiful community to spend time in, and the Artist's Retreat is the BEST place to stay.
Tammy F.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
11 Apr 2017
Incredibly scenic and peaceful, but still fairly close to the Kaikoura township.
Incredibly scenic and peaceful, but still fairly close to the Kaikoura township. Lots of character and charm.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
20 Mar 2017
Great place for a young family with a child, we can say that much!
Great place for a young family with a child, we can say that much!
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
7 Oct 2016
The property is absolutely beautiful, waking up to the most beautiful view.
The property is absolutely beautiful, waking up to the most beautiful view. Would recommend to anyone.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
8/10 Good
6 Oct 2016
Lovely setting with fabulous landscape.
Lovely setting with fabulous landscape. Fun and funky house.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
30 Sept 2016
A unique rustic property on a mini farm a short drive from the hustle of town.
A unique rustic property on a mini farm a short drive from the hustle of town. We found it very relaxing.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
23 Aug 2016
Stunning location between snow-capped mountains and the sea, just unbelievably beautiful.
Stunning location between snow-capped mountains and the sea, just unbelievably beautiful. The house was much larger than I needed but cozy upstairs with high wood-beamed ceilings, a balcony, fully-provided kitchen, and a very comfortable bed. I'd love to come back with family and use all the space (and kids would love the animals--as did I, to be honest), but I'd come back alone again in a second as well.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
8/10 Good
30 Apr 2016
Peaceful spot with great views.
Peaceful spot with great views. Away from busyness of kaikoura but only a five minute drive from good coffee. We loved feeding the animals too. Bach is well equipped and the real fire keeps it warm
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
1 Mar 2016
The property?s location is so unique ? has a wonderful view towards Kaikoura bay.
The property?s location is so unique ? has a wonderful view towards Kaikoura bay. So full of character being made of many recycled materials. Comfortable and cosy. Bob?s memorabilia in the garage was so awe inspiring and took us into the past. Would certainly return if in the area.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
19 Feb 2016
5 stars rate
5 stars rate
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
17 Feb 2016
We loved our stay at Artist's Retreat.
We loved our stay at Artist's Retreat. Just wish we had had more time, to have spent longer there. A stunning and tranquil place to stay, with amazing views across to Kaikoura. Bob and Karen were warm hosts, with beautiful little fresh flowers to welcome us - a special touch, thank you. Highly recommended!
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
8/10 Good
27 Jan 2016
It is rustic - a bit rough in places but that all adds to the charm.
It is rustic - a bit rough in places but that all adds to the charm. It was warm and comfortable. The view was stunning. The kids loved the animals. My only suggestion at improving it would be a knife sharpener!
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
19 Jan 2016
My mum, sister and I stayed here for 2nights in January.
My mum, sister and I stayed here for 2nights in January. We spent the whole month traveling around NZ and this was by far the best place we stayed! The views of the sea and mountains are amazing and you get to enjoy it all to yourselves.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
10 Jan 2016
This place, the buildings, the garden, the views and surroundings and the hosts too are unique.
This place, the buildings, the garden, the views and surroundings and the hosts too are unique. The retreat, like their private house, is constructed as something with a lot of history and in grand dimensions, yet is 20 years young. The very creative use of recycled building components makes you want to just stay in and around the house and go nowhere. Make sure you talk to Bob and Karen. And dont overlook the lovely farm animals. We will be back for sure. And for more days and with friends.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
6 Jan 2016
Absolutely stunning views, and very quirky character home, a true "artists retreat" lov
Absolutely stunning views, and very quirky character home, a true "artists retreat" loved the animals especially the rather 'ram'bunctious goat, we all had a fantastic stay, pity it was only 2 nights, highly recommend
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
24 Dec 2015
What a magical place to spend Christmas.
What a magical place to spend Christmas. We loved every minute of our stay here. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, the Artist's Retreat was cozy, comfortable and great to come "home" to after visits to Kaikoura and surrounds. Views are amazing. Kids loved doing the rounds to feed the animals each day. Bob and Karen were welcoming and friendly - thanks for the Christmas cards etc! Will definitely be recommending this property to friends in future. Loved it.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
9 Dec 2015
Amazing views and surroundings.
Amazing views and surroundings. The property is quite unique and full of character. Everything you could need is provided
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.