The Apple Pickers' Cottages

Channel your inner Rita Angus and step into an idyllic piece of Nelson Tasman at The Apple Pickers’ Cottages. 

Tucked into the Waimea Inlet, as their name suggests, these three cottages were originally built for apple pickers—a historic industry for the region—and have been lovingly renovated into comfortable, “rustic luxury” accommodation. Each fully-equipped cottage boasts expansive windows overlooking the view, plus either private outdoor decks or verandahs, and sits within easy access to the inlet, where you can watch the tides ebb and flow (and perhaps say “hello” to a curious native bird companion or two). Whether you’re staying for just two nights or taking the time for a longer retreat, you’ll feel refreshed and restored. 

Hearkening back to its roots, the property still boasts an orchard of bountiful, organic fruit trees—persimmons, feijoa, figs, apricot and more. To taste them yourself, add The Breakfast Box to your booking: a sumptuous spread of bread and jam, fresh eggs, homemade granola, bottled milk and (of course) coffee.

If you’re looking for local activities, The Apple Pickers’ staff can help arrange a massage therapist to set up a relaxing session in your cottage. Or, if you’d prefer to head out for some fun, Māpua Wharf and Abel Tasman National Park are only a short drive away. And you can rest easy knowing your stay is facilitating the restoration of the population of banded rail wetland birds as well as replanting native coastal forest.