Featured Property

7 baches for sale where you can live the Kiwi dream

Article by Homes to Love
Loading the player...

7 baches for sale where you can live the Kiwi dream

There is naught more quintessentially ‘Kiwi’ than the humble New Zealand bach. The Kiwiana bach is one filled with mismatched furniture, board games, and rowdiness – here are a few of our favourite picks that fit the bill currently on the market around the country.


1. Soak up those views – Northland

The square-fronted façade and flat roof of this Opononi bach is a classic, as are the fabulous views from the deck of the beautiful Hokianga Harbour and over to the legendary golden sandhills.

The original widows that line the living area were designed to frame those views and they give the room plenty of period charm. The open plan kitchen has been updated but still has some old-style touches, such as the fabric curtians over the shelves under the sink and polished wooden floors.

It’s the perfect holiday hideout, with plenty of room on the deck for relaxed entertaining around the barbie. There’s a bedroom on the upper level plus another downstairs, complete with ensuite.

With plenty of room to pitch tents on the front lawn you can invite friends and family for a holiday in the great Kiwi tradition.


2. Away from it all – Kaipara

Only two hours’ drive from Auckland and you could be soaking up the views of the tranquil Kaipara Harbour from the deck of this retro Pahi bach. The living room is a poster child for the seventies with flocked wallpaper, window pelmets and a ranch slider leading to the deck. There’s even an orange velvet couch to complete the picture.

Wood panelling in the dining area could easily be dealt to with a bit of DIY and the updated kitchen and bathroom are a bonus. There’s only one bedroom but there’s plenty of room for a caravan or tents while you consider how to expand this little gem.

It’s only a stroll to a safe swimming beach and close to a boat ramp for fishing for those tasty flounder the Kaipara is renowned for.


3. Tree house living – Waikato

Although not at the seaside, this Waikato home surrounded by native bush and an olive grove with peaceful rural views offers the perfect retreat from busy city lives. It’s designed by award-winning architect Roger Walker and captures all the charm of a traditional Kiwi bach combined with the comforts of modern living.

The corrugated iron cladding, pitched roof and inset water tank make a whimsical reference to the classic farm shed, yet interior spaces are a tribute to minimalist modernism.

Feature windows in every room frame the green leafy views and there’s a wood burner for cosy winter evenings. It’s like living in a tree house!


4. Relaxing beachside – Kapiti Coast

It’s just a stroll across the road and through the reserve to have an early morning swim – this Kapiti Coast bach offers the best of beachside living.

There’s a charming little gazebo on the front lawn for al fresco meals and the striking Kiwiana stone outdoor fireplace complete with inset paua shells is just the spot for enjoying a glass of wine and fireside chats in the evening.

Indoor the plywood walls ooze retro charm. The home is divided into two studio units but could easily be converted into one home – or leave as is for flexible accommodation. With views of iconic Kapiti Island, an outdoor shower to wash off the sand after a day on the beach, and plenty of level lawn for tents and family fun, this little pearler is a step back in time and an ideal holiday haven so close to Wellington city.


   5. Enjoy the birdsong – Akaroa

Nestled in the bush, all you’ll hear is birdsong when you’re on holiday at this charming little Akaroa bach. The present owners have been enjoying this secluded setting for 30 years and it’s not hard to why they’ve held onto it for so long.

The timber-lined walls and orange lino are an ode to times past and give this home heaps of retro appeal. If you’re not into the woody ambience, a coat of paint are all that’s needed to lift the interiors.

The standout feature is a wide deck that runs the full length of the front of the house with splendid views out over Akaroa Harbour. This house is offered complete with the furniture so all you have to do is secure the keys and relax.


6. Total peace – Kenepuru Sounds

You can access this secluded Marlborough bach sited on a massive block of forestry land by road from Havelock, yet still enjoy the serenity of the Sounds. There’s plenty of traditional holiday fun on offer – swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, hiking or just reading a book and soaking up the silence.

The family will love the open plan living, complete with wood burner, that has a lofty beamed ceiling that gives a wonderful feeling of space and character. The timber lined kitchen with original units just add to the retro charm.

There’s two generous bedrooms and an old-school bunk room offering lots of accommodation for all the friends and family who’ll be angling for an invitation to enjoy this lovely getaway with you.


   7. Perfect starter – Southland

Small but perfectly formed…this sweet little Orepuki beauty is a perfect holiday starter at a keen price. It’s entirely off the grid with solar power and a diesel fire for chilly evenings.

The retro kitchen with gingham wallpaper and cosy living room have picture windows that open to the wonderful views out over Gemstone Beach and the Solander and Monkey Islands. Or relax on the generous verandah while you decide what you’ll do for the day – you can walk to the beach for a swim or surf, or do a spot of the hunting and fishing this region is known for.

There’s even a couple of classic sheds on the generous site that are perfect for storage. Best of all there’s a pub and café nearby for when you’re in the mood for a yarn or a relaxed brunch. A perfect spot to step back in time.


Words by: Sarah Beresford.

Create the home of your dreams with Shop Your Home and Garden

SHOP NOW

FEATURED