One of the things we enjoy most about planning unforgettable holidays to New Zealand, is recommending our favourite places to stay. If you read our previous blog post you’ll know why we choose to work so closely with smaller, more characterful Bed & Breakfasts as opposed to large hotels, and we thought it would be a great idea to introduce you to some of the hosts at our most loved properties. In this series of blog posts a selection of B&B owners will share their secrets about where they live and why they love welcoming guests in to stay with them.
This week it’s Maureen and Colin who own Colleith Lodge in Tairua…..
We’d love it if you could introduce yourselves. Tell us about who you are, how long you’ve been running your B&B, What made you decide to open your home to guests?
We are Colin and Maureen Gilroy from Tairua on the East Coast of the Coromandel Peninsula.
We purchased our land in 1998 and in the year 2000 Colin started to build our home which was designed to purposely operate as a B & B. We starting operating in October 2002. We had been for a holiday in the U.K. in 1998 and stayed in B & B properties there and we thought we would like to have people from overseas staying with us whilst they were on holiday.
What’s the best thing about where you live (Locally and regionally)?
It is scenically beautiful. Lots of natural bush, fauna and lovely harbour and sea vistas from all over the area. Gorgeous white sandy beaches. Great swimming and surfing. Great Fishing. Laid back lifestyle. Friendly people.
Where’s your favourite place to eat and drink in your town?
The Old Mill Licensed Waterfront Café. Organically sourced ingredients created into yummy dishes full of flavour and made with love. Eating while watching boats coming and going into the harbour.
Tell us something about your town/region that we probably won’t know – A hidden gem, a little known fact etc.
A short walk up Paku Mountain which is situated right in Tairua gives you 360 degree views of the harbour, Tairua Surf Beach, Pauanui Surf beach, the Pacific ocean and several islands plus the river and all the volcanic ranges.
Why do you love running a B&B?
We meet very interesting and nice people and have a laugh
What do you love most about living in New Zealand?
Actually its seems from hearing stories from our guests that we are still not over crowded.
Can still be the only one on a lovely beach. We were born here and we are very proud to be kiwis. Just love it.
What would you make sure you do/see if you had just one day in your town?
I would go up Paku and see the view. Go to Cathedral Cove and have a look at Hotwater Beach.
Colleith Lodge is just one of the unique small properties which we specialise in featuring in both Silver Fern tailor-made holidays and Small Group Journeys All our recommended accommodations are featured on our website, and we’ll be featuring more B&B’s over the coming weeks.