Imagine awakening to the sound of sea lapping the shore outside your window, and the call of the kingfisher, as the Bay of Islands beckons you. Open your eyes to watch sparks of sunlight bounce off the water.

Imagine having breakfast, sipping your favourite tea or coffee, leaning on the kitchen bar. You're almost awake as you watch the yachts arrive and depart Opua harbour. If you're an early bird, you can watch the sun rise over the Waikare Inlet.

Imagine sitting on the deck, the sea beneath you, a small yacht sailing past, the ferry taking off. You are catching your first fish from the balcony, the wonderful aromas from the barbecue promise a great meal.

Imagine lounging on the comfortable suede suite in the large lounge, looking out to sea, towards Waitangi and beyond, and listening to your favourite music; the fishing boats have returned for the evening. The seagulls area yawning, so are you.

View excerpts from the Guest Book

Sunday Star Magazine - '36 Hours in the Bay' by Miriyana Alexander

NZ Herald - 'Lazy days at the boathouse' by Barbara Harris

You are in The Boathouse Accommodation Over the Water Opua, the Bay of Islands