“The Smokehouse has to one of the best Airbnb’s we have stay in. It is so thoughtfully spaced with a nice private outside space perfect for breakfast, the kitchen has everything you need and well stocked, the seating area was great and very comfy after a long day of activities. This all separated by a sliding to the very comfy bed and luxury shower room. I wish my shower at home had the same water pressure! The unit is a distance away from the house and completely private. Paihia is walkable along the road around 25 mins to the centre but is up and down an hill, the better route is along the beach walk 20 mins however watch out for high tide as not accessible 1.5 hours either side. Would definitely recommend”
— Chris March 2025
“What a lovely place to stay. You have created an oasis n Esmeralda’s space. We enjoyed an afternoon drink in the garden and then headed to JFC for dinner - would ABSOLUTELY recommend! Thanks for having us and all the lovely touches. ”
— Tyrone and Katie Feb 2025
“Thankyou for your wonderful hosptality, we loved our stay in Esmeralda’s space. It is beautifully decorated, very peaceful and calming. We had a great sleep. Enjoyed our dinner at The tipsy Oyster, great fun and fantastic atsmphere. Thank your chooks for their beautiful eggs - they were delicious. P.S we loved the chocolate fish”
— Mike and Angie January 2025
“This is such a beautiful home and the place has such a cool style to it. So much care and love is put into this place and it really shows. The place has a great kitchen, Shelley keeps it stocked with fresh herbs from the garden, and also a beautiful patio. On our second night we stayed in, made a lovely dinner, and just enjoyed the atmosphere”
— Casey February 2025
“The Smokehouse was a beautiful hideaway for a peaceful break in Paihia and The Bay of Islands. Beaches are easily accessible and plenty of bars and restaurants locally. Brilliant shower and comfy, luxurious bed. Lots of little touches by Shelley and her generosity with her home grown fruit and vegetables together with the family history of The Smokehouse make this an extra special place to stay.”
— Lesley January 2025
“Staying at Shelley’s place was awesome ! Max’s space is very cosy, well designed and has everything you need to make yourself feeling at home. Not to mention Shelley’s special attention like fresh farm eggs and tomatoes from her garden. My partner and I had a blast in her place in Paihia. We hope we’ll get there again soon ! Thank you Shelley !”
— Etienne January 2025
“What a pleasure to spend a few days in Max’s space. The apratment is beautifully decorate with agreat eye for colours and plenty of charming details. The garden is very nice too, it’s noso nice to watch the chickens and other birds and it was very funny to see a cat suddenly peeping through the window at night. Thank you for all the foodstuffs as well, the variety of things available is amazing. Itisvery kind to think about the busy travellers who don’t have much at hand upon arrival. We felt special that we were asked our milk preference prior to arrival - and the fresh eggs were delicious. Max’s was ther perfect place to end our stay in NZ.”