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Barnie

Barnie

Ōhope, Bay of Plenty


Barnie is located a short 10-minute drive from Ōhope Beach and 20 minutes from Whakatane. This tranquil haven is situated on the picturesque shores of Ohiwa Harbour, sharing the same enchanting property as Seaside Escape.

Barnie is a beautifully hand-crafted American barn built in 2004 using traditional timber-framing techniques. A large open-plan space, the interior has been artfully divided into bedroom, living and kitchen spaces. With beautiful timber-clad walls, it exudes warmth and serenity. Exquisite chandeliers add a touch of rustic luxury.

Throw open the massive barn doors at one end, inviting the golden sunlight and crisp sea breeze inside. Or enjoy the sun-drenched deck where you'll find an intimate connection with the natural world outside - including masses of native birds and stunning sea views. Each night, the soothing call of the Ruru will lull you to sleep, and you'll awaken to a symphony of birdsong.

Just a short 10-metre stroll from Barnie, is a semi-outdoor bathroom, with a luxurious outdoor bath.

Enjoy the use of the complimentary kayaks during your stay to explore the harbour. Or go for a swim right on your doorstep at high tide. At low tide, take a leisurely stroll along the harbour edge and at night, soak away your cares in a deep outdoor bath under a canopy of stars.

Last updated 18 Aug 2026

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Barnie is fully self-catering, with a gas cooktop and oven, and Weber BBQ for preparing meals. The kitchen also includes a full-sized fridge and freezer, along with all the cutlery, crockery, coffee plunger, pots, pans and utensils you’ll need.

For great coffee, a relaxed meal and a walk along the beach, Ōhope is a 15-minute drive. Guest local favourites include Moxi Cafe, Ōhope Beach Tavern and Fisherman’s Wharf.

Seafood lovers can visit Tio Ohiwa Oyster Farm, a 10-minute drive, for fresh local oysters, fish and chips, and scheduled cruises on Ōhiwa Harbour.

Groceries and extra supplies are available at nearby Ōhope Four Square, and Whakatāne is a 20-minute drive for PaknSave and New World supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, and takeaway options. Local favourites include The Comm and Mata Breweries Taproom.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

You'll find plenty to keep you entertained at Barnie!

There is plenty to enjoy at Barnie, whether you feel like exploring or relaxing. Soak in the outdoor bath beneath the stars, or wander along the harbour edge at low tide. Enjoy a swim, go fishing, and two kayaks, a paddle board and life jackets are available for exploring Ōhiwa Harbour when conditions suit.

For quieter moments, your hosts provide books, board games, and a selection of records. Connect to the bluetooth speaker, play the piano or guitars, or open the barn doors and listen to birdsong.

Within 15-25 minutes drive, explore nearby Ōhope Harbourside Walk, visit Ōhope Beach for swimming, surfing, and walking, enjoy a round at Ōhope Golf Club, cycle or walk the Motu Cycle Trails, visit Mata Breweries for a tasting, take an Ōhiwa Harbour cruise, book a fishing charter, or visit nearby Motuhora Island.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Tony, Aleisha, and Sky are your hosts at Barnie. Their journey started here after a road trip led them to this 14-acre paradise.

Their stunning property graces the borders of Ohiwa Harbour, stretching across 14 acres of organic bliss adorned with native trees and abundant bird life.

This off-grid haven invites you to reconnect with nature and tranquillity. Your hosts await your arrival and warm-heartedly welcome you to this enchanting seaside retreat.

TESTIMONIALS

“ The hosts were super friendly, bent over backwards for us and made such a homely retreat for people to enjoy. We're definitely planning a return. ”

Cherie Dowman- 2025-05-19

20 / 20

“ We had the best time ever and exceeded our expectations by far. ”

Cam Cotton- 2026-09-11

1 / 20

“ Barnie was like a home away from home. The barn itself was so cosy for a winter retreat and set up so well. ”

Hayley Clement- 2026-08-10

2 / 20

“ Just an incredibly unique stay. The owners were clearly passionate and wanted to make sure we had a comfortable and memorable stay. ”

Jasmine Sizeland- 2026-07-14

3 / 20

“ Amazing stay at Barnie! Relaxing, beautiful surroundings, and our dog loved it! She was in heaven for two days! A lot of running around and swimming! Thanks to Aleisha and Tony for being so welcoming too! ”

Maxime Louis- 2026-07-02

4 / 20

“ I booked 'Barnie' as a birthday/graduation celebration, and it was an absolute treat. Aleisha was the best host. Great communication, super accommodating, and everything in between. We loved the barn, bird song, stars, full moon, tidal movement in the estuary. It's such a beautiful area of energy. A highlight was the sunny walk around the estuary, outdoor bath morning and night, and the sound of the rain on the corrugated roof. Thanks for sharing this slice of paradise with us. ”

Tiana- 2026-06-08

5 / 20

“ Barnie is a unique retreat where every detail is beautifully intentional. Immersed in nature, it’s the perfect place to disconnect and reconnect! ”

Sharleen Benefield- 2026-05-18

6 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Barnie, such a secluded, private, romantic spot for a weekend getaway, highly recommend! ”

Tracey Thompson- 2026-05-11

7 / 20

“ Barnie is an absolutely amazing place to unwind, explore and immerse yourself in absolute serenity. ”

Ash Pritchard- 2026-05-05

8 / 20

“ We had an incredible get-away to Barnie. It was the perfect spot to relax and switch off from our busy lives. Amazing setting, surrounded by birds, nature and water views. Our host was so welcoming. We would love to return one day. ”

Alison Mcguire- 2026-03-31

9 / 20

“ The most tranquil, private, and idyllic stay with the warmest welcoming hosts. Everything you need for a retreat weekend away! My furry friend Rocky and I had the best time kayaking, exploring, soaking in the outdoor bath, gazing up at the stars, and quite simply just existing in serenity. Barnie has sparked a little something inside of me to consciously make time to recalibrate, relax, and rejuvenate in the beauty that is nature. Truly a wonderful spot, and a wonderful weekend. Thank you so much for having us. Lots of love and appreciation. ”

alison rian- 2026-03-24

10 / 20

“ Great location and wonderful friendly host. ”

Christy Mead- 2026-02-15

11 / 20

“ Fantastic break away from the hustle and bustle. We loved waking up to the birds and the sound of nature. A real relaxing retreat. 100% recommended! ”

Courtney Kirkbride- 2026-01-19

12 / 20

“ Beautiful place to stay, incredible weekend. Highly recommend. ”

Alex Wilkinson- 2025-12-08

13 / 20

“ Barnie has a unique ambience and environment in which it sits. The most relaxing and tranquil setting, with bush birds and water, showcasing the very best of NZ. The hosts are wonderful, so friendly, and extremely welcoming. ”

Susan McDougall- 2025-12-01

14 / 20

“ Aleisha and Tony are fabulous hosts, and they go out of their way to accommodate you. Barnie is a very special place to stay and has all the lovely touches to make it really relaxing and enjoyable. The view and the grounds, with all the bird life, are very tranquil. We would love to return in better weather so we can open the big doors up. Thanks, Aleisha and Tony, for letting us share your little piece of paradise. ”

Sherrie Keeley- 2025-11-18

15 / 20

“ Barnie was just absolutely magic. The views were amazing, it felt very secluded and private but then so close to everything we wanted. The outdoor bath was incredible. The day we spent at the beach, walking around the bays at low tide and kayaking at high tide was breathtaking. Spending the night next to the fire and playing the board games at Barnie was wonderful. Our little dachshund had the most extraordinary weekend with us there too. I don't think his tail stopped wagging for one minute. It was the most perfect weekend away and made all the more spectacular by Aleisha and Tony. They were so welcoming and accommodating, it felt like we had known them for years. We will definitely be back, and we can't wait, especially our doxie. ”

shalini walton- 2025-10-11

16 / 20

“ We needed a moment of peace and could not have made a better choice. Barnie is a special and great place to relax. ”

Steve OBrien- 2025-10-11

17 / 20

“ Fantastic location and property. We felt very relaxed. We especially enjoyed the outdoor bath under the stars and all the little details that made our stay very special. ”

Glenn Cossey- 2025-08-25

18 / 20

“ The most amazing stay. It was exactly what we needed. The hosts were 10/10 – so warm and welcoming. Highly recommend this stay. Our lil pup Philo had the best time also. We will definitely be back again. ”

Dorene Purdie- 2025-07-17

19 / 20

“ The hosts were super friendly, bent over backwards for us and made such a homely retreat for people to enjoy. We're definitely planning a return. ”

Cherie Dowman- 2025-05-19

20 / 20

“ We had the best time ever and exceeded our expectations by far. ”

Cam Cotton- 2026-09-11

1 / 20

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