We recently took off for a 2-night getaway to Ruby Bay. Not exactly big mileage as Ruby Bay is only a 25 minute drive from our house. But at the turnoff to Mapua, we already felt part of a different world – a slower and less peopled one.聽 We stayed at the Ruby Bay Vineyard where owners Ivy and Andy offer 2 lodge rooms and a gorgeous elevated cottage. We chose the cottage which overlooks 9 hectares of gently sloping grapevines…..soooo private and wait’ll you see the views!
The blue dot in the foreground is me and yes, this is how much glorious space we had to ourselves:
The cottage interiors are decorated in pristine white and warm creams with dark wooden floors. The rainhead shower in the bathroom and lavender bathroom products adds a nice layer of comfort.
Ivy and Andy are very generous hosts.聽 The fridge was groaning with food e.g.- export Portabello Mushrooms. tomatoes and cherries, eggs, fresh fruit, PICS Peanut butter (arguably the best in New Zealand), yoghurt, orange juice and milk.聽 The cupboards were stocked with cereals, condiments and baking ingredients.聽 On arrival, Ivy welcomed us with a huge gourmet platter and a bottle of their award-winning wines – we chose the Riesling – luscious!
On day 2, we finally wrestled ourselves off the deckchairs to explore the Kina beach area, passing by the gorgeous (9-hole) Tasman Golf club at Kina Cliffs.聽 Non-members are welcomed to buy a drink at the clubhouse and relax outside to enjoy the views of Tasman Bay at the Mt Arthur Ranges. Instead, we joined the locals at the Kina Beach Reserve:
There is a common misperception that you pay more for exclusive occupancy in New Zealand, but when you look at what’s provided, it’s excellent value. We didn’t eat out once!聽 But perhaps the true value of our stay was the peace and privacy we found here away from our busy lives…ok, Michael, just one more look:
