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The Library Bach - A special place people love!

Beachfront holiday home with kitchen and patio

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

Fridge, microwave, oven, electric kettle - The Library Bach - A special place people love! (Pakawau Beach)
Interior - The Library Bach - A special place people love! (Pakawau Beach)
Property grounds - The Library Bach - A special place people love! (Pakawau Beach)
Exterior - The Library Bach - A special place people love! (Pakawau Beach)
On the beach - The Library Bach - A special place people love! (Pakawau Beach)
Located near a safe swimming beach, The Library Bach is a private and characterful retreat. Enjoy the designer retro-pacific styled interior, kayaks, paddle board and an outside bath while being surrounded by bird-filled bush-clad surroundings with superb inlet views.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

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

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.

The Library Bach - A special place people love!

Kia ora
I am off grid tramping from 18 Jan 2026 for two weeks and will not always be able to directly respond to booking inquiries. However, you can still make a booking and I will touch base with you as soon as I can.
Cheers and happy new year, Anna

“Silver Winner Golden Piwa Awards" BEST IN HOSPITALITY!
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 and sits behind the main bach which is located beside an estuary. 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 tramping hut! Beds are in the loft and on the ground floor with no doors between. The bach's size, character and proximity to stunning beaches help make it a wonderful holiday destination for couples or small families.

There is great mobile phone reception at the bach.

Extra features include nearby migratory godwits and other wonderful bird life, including 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. There are also a superb selection of natural history, children's and other fiction books, a large record collection, gas 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 4 people. Each additional guest per night is $20.00.
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 also available at 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 Nelson Community Food Bank delivers food parcels to families and individuals experiencing hardship in the Nelson area. The Nelson Community Food Bank is a registered charity (No. CC29561) https://www.nelsoncommunityfoodbank.org.nz/ and so far the bach has donated over $3,000.00 to it.

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 is non-profit and supports the Kea Conservation Trust. It can be found on airbnb 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

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • 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
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming 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)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Bicycles
  • Housekeeping (on request)

Similar properties

Property grounds
Beach Cottage Collingwood
  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Outdoor space
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, 194 reviews
Beach Cottage Collingwood

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

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

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

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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
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 -
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.

Property is also known as

The Library Bach - A Special Place People Love! Collingwood

About the area

Located in Collingwood, this holiday home is on the beach. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Collingwood Museum, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Golden Bay and Kahurangi National Park. Discover the area's water adventures with surfing/body boarding and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and cycling.
Visit our Collingwood travel guideOpens in a new window
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Map
Pakawau Beach, Golden Bay

What's nearby

  • Pakawau Beach - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Tata Beach - 39 min drive - 58.6 km
  • Abel Tasman National Park - 51 min drive - 70.1 km
  • Abel Tasman Coast Track - 51 min drive - 70.1 km
  • Totaranui Beach - 61 min drive - 75.2 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Collingwood Tavern - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Collingwood Cafe - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Sunset Balcony - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪NgAngART Gallery & Cafe - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Rosy Glow Chocolate Shop - ‬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 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Pakawau Beach and within 6 miles (10 km) of Kahurangi National Park and Collingwood Recreation Ground. Collingwood Museum and Tukurua Bay 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. 334 out of 365 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 31 out of 365 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 365 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 365 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 365 reviews

9.8

Cleanliness

10

Location

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Phillippa G.

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

Golden Bay Getaway

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

10/10 Excellent

Olga N.

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

10/10 Excellent

Diane S.

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

8/10 Good

Carol P.

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

10/10 Excellent

Darren R.

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

10/10 Excellent

Nicola W.

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

10/10 Excellent

Julia G.

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

10/10 Excellent

Cathy M.

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

10/10 Excellent

Alexandrine L.

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

10/10 Excellent

Amy P.

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

10/10 Excellent

steve H.

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

Bliss

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

10/10 Excellent

Beverly & David T.

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

10/10 Excellent

Chrissie C.

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

10/10 Excellent

Jen C.

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

10/10 Excellent

Jeff F.

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

10/10 Excellent

Tim L.

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

10/10 Excellent

Jenny L.

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

10/10 Excellent

Vicky M.

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

10/10 Excellent

Glynis and Tom D.

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

10/10 Excellent

Madeleine W.

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

10/10 Excellent

Robyn B.

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

10/10 Excellent

Viv D.

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

Tranquil winter sojourn

Loved this space, and the location! Heaps to do in the area, or just hole up at 'home' in The Library, with a blazing fire, fully equipped kitchen, and a gorgeous outlook over the estuary to the western Bay hills. The bedroom overlooking the estuary was a highlight for us, as well as appreciating the quality of kitchen provision, and tasteful decor at The Library. Anna is a gracious host, excellent communication, thank you.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Theresa S.

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

Beautiful tranquil location

We had a wonderful stay in the The Library Bach. It has the perfect location. We have stayed on the ocean side of this inlet before but nothing can compare with the beauty of watching the birds and seeing the tide come in. It is a magic slowdown for tired the nervous systems of our busy world. The architecture of this small dwelling is beautiful. We had a magic holiday - and thanks for the honey.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Megan A.

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

Cosy getaway

What an incredible spot. Right on the water. An amazing retreat after a long weekend of orienteering. The bath was incredible to restore the body and mind. A lovely kitchen to cook in and we loved the open plan style of the house. We spent the evenings warmed by the fire, reviewing the days events and istening to the awesome vinyl collection. So peaceful and restorative.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nina S.

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

Fantastic!

A beautiful place that has been fitted out and decorated with a love for details. We found everything we needed and more. The location is perfect between beach and eastuary, close to Farewell Spit/Wharariki. The record player was a highlight. You could easily spend a week in this place and not get bored. We didn't even use any of the sports equipment on offer, just listened to music and cooked up a storm. The neighbour brought some freshly caught snapper which was a real treat. Thank you so much, Anna! This is far beyond a run-of-the-mill bach. We felt so comfortable there.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024