Kotare Muse: a bijou chalet for two.
Kotare Muse Chalet entrance view
Kotare Muse Chalet comfy sitting area
Kotare Muse Chalet queen bedroom
Kotare Muse Chalet queen bedroom with private garden view

Stylish holiday accommodation for two
near Takaka in Golden Bay, at the top of South Island, New Zealand

Welcome to our charming 3-room guest chalet located 3.5km from Takaka. Lovingly renovated and well appointed, offering compact, comfortable holiday living for a couple (or single person). 

• Queen bedroom with luxury bed linen

• Shower room with toiletries supplied 

• Cosy sitting room with kitchenette 

• Small garden with its own deck & BBQ

• Spotlessly clean with attention to detail

• 5 Star ratings on major booking sites

Kotare Muse (named for the NZ kingfisher that often pauses nearby) is our tastefully decorated guest chalet located in a private garden setting adjacent to our home.

Thoughtfully refurbished to maximise the living space, with quality furnishings throughout, the good-sized bedroom features a comfortable queen bed dressed in luxury linen, complemented with a large wardrobe (includes shelves & drawers), bedside drawers and an easy chair. 

En suite shower room with toilet & vanity, with a selection of toiletries & hairdryer provided. 

The cosy living room has two comfy leather recliners, FreeView TV, dining table and chairs, plus a kitchenette amply equipped with everything needed to prepare light and easy meals: kettle, toaster, microwave, Nespresso® machine, small fridge, sink and utensils. (However, please note there is no hob or oven available). Double French doors open onto a covered veranda with garden views, creating a light and airy, relaxing atmosphere indoors. 

Additionally, a private sheltered deck offers an al fresco relaxing / dining space, featuring a quality gas BBQ with a side-burner and accessories, and a cafe-style outdoor table and chairs. 

Altogether our wee chalet creates the perfect relaxing ‘ bijou’ holiday haven to which you can retreat after a busy day exploring Golden Bay's unique environs.

Other details:

  • Nespresso coffee machine with hot milk frother (bring your favourite Nespresso® compatible coffee capsules).
  • A selection of teas, infusions and coffees is provided.
  • Insect screens on all windows. 
  • Tower fan to help keep cool on hot summer days and nights.
  • Heaters in all rooms for when there is a chill in the air. 
  • Electric blanket for warming the bed on cooler nights.
  • Ample on-demand hot water via a dedicated gas heater.
  • Free unlimited Wi-Fi.
  • A selection of books & games for lazy days. 
  • Brochures & leaflets about the many things to see and do locally.
  • We created a custom-designed explorer’s map of the area, especially for our guests.
  • Loan of beach towels, if required.
  • Tasteful decor features our own exclusive photographic artwork & coffee table books (also available for purchase).
  • Safety: fire & carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguisher & fire blanket, plus emergency procedures sheet provided.
  • For international guests: Nous parlons français / Hablamos español.

 

The Premises:  Our guests have exclusive use of our private chalet, BBQ deck and small garden area. Safe off-street parking (with security camera) for 1 car — height limited by a shrubbery archway to cars and standard–sized SUVs — or ample street parking for high or larger vehicles, those carrying bikes or kayaks on roof racks (unless removed first), or vehicles towing boats. Guests will be sharing our driveway and property access through a garden gate, but the chalet itself is offset in its own garden setting so is not linked to our main house.

Interaction with guests:  When possible we will welcome our guests on arrival. We live on-site and our photography business office is located just across the road, so our guests may see us passing by occasionally. We have a young, very cute and lively Labradoodle. He is not allowed in guest areas and although he may be seen out and about in our main garden, guests won't have to meet him if they prefer not. We completely respect our guests' privacy, but if they wish we’re equally delighted to chat, offer advice and suggestions about the many exciting things to do in and around Golden Bay, or even share stories of travels both in New Zealand and further afield.

Note please:  Our chalet accommodation is for a maximum of two responsible adults only (in a shared bed), and cannot accommodate children of any age.  Also, the living spaces are on two levels, so unfortunately would not be appropriate for people with limited mobility. No pets are allowed.

Kotare Muse inside view
Kotare Muse Bedroom

“ Your chalet is everything and more with
all the special little touches ”
J & E, N. Ireland

Kotare Muse - a bijou chalet for two kingfisher logo

“ The perfect place to relax and recharge ”

R & A, Richmond, NZ 

Kotare Muse Chalet Kingfisher logo

• Gallery ~ our chalet & its setting

Kotare Muse Chalet garden view

Kotare Muse Chalet, a welcoming airy garden setting with private deck

Kotare Muse Chalet garden view

Living & dining area, with comfortable leather La-Z-Boy recliners

Kotare Muse Chalet comfy seating area

Welcoming, light and well appointed sitting and dining space

Kotare Muse Chalet Kitchenette and garden view

Practical kitchenette with double french doors opening onto pleasant garden views

Kotare Muse Chalet

Kotare Muse Chalet, small stairway leading to bathroom & bedroom beyond

Kotare Muse Chalet Bathroom

Kotare Muse Chalet, bathroom facilities with on-demand hot water & toiletries

Kotare Muse ChaletQueen Bedroom

Ample sized bedroom with queen bed & luxury linens

Kotare Muse Chalet Queen Bedroom with private deck

Nicely furnished, good-sized Queen bedroom, with outlook onto private deck

Kotare Muse Chalet Queen Bedroom with private garden

Tastefully designed Queen bedroom, with outlook onto private deck

Kotare Muse Chalet Queen Bed with luxury linen

A comfortable and romantic setting, ideal for a relaxing holiday for two

Kotare Muse Chalet peaceful garden setting

Kotare Muse Chalet, peaceful garden setting with a variety of bird song

Kotare Muse Chalet peaceful garden setting

Kotare Muse Chalet, features a covered verandah and private BBQ deck

Kotare Muse Chalet private BBQ deck

Wisteria in spring bloom, there’s nothing like relaxing with an evening glass of wine

Kotare Muse Chalet private BBQ deck with garden views

Kotare Muse Chalet, pleasing garden views from the private deck

Kotare Muse Chalet quality BBQ

Quality ‘Broil King’ barbecue with side-burner & accessories for cooking up a feast

Hover mouse over image to pause slideshow, click to expand individual pictures

• Testimonials - what previous guests have had to say…

Our focus in Kotare Muse is to provide the kind of harmonious and pleasingly practical facilities we personally
seek and appreciate when looking for our own holiday accommodation, both in New Zealand and abroad. While we have been welcoming guests for over 8 years, our aim is that everyone feels special, and like they are the first to stay.

We’re more than content to let our previous guests’ comments speak for themselves:

The perfect place to relax and recharge. Couldn’t have asked for more.
Beautiful location, thoroughly enjoyed staying in Kotare Muse, so clean, peaceful, well appointed. Wonderful hosts and home baking delicious. Thank you, we’ll be back.

R & A, Richmond, NZ

====

Well, we loved it so much the first time, we had to come back.
You guys never fail to please, you think of everything!
Love it, the treats, the touches of you. We love you.
And we will probably be back!!

J & J, Nelson, NZ

====

Love the chalet, treats and your exceptional hospitality. Thank you Julie and Mark
– you made my birthday and our time here very special.

B & J , Brisbane, Australia

====

Super place with lovely hosts.
Julie & Mark got the balance just right – never intrusive but ever helpful.
We loved all the little extras including a Christmas tree.

S & T, England and France

====

Thank you for a lovely stay during our honeymoon.
You treated us so well – thank you for everything.

J & A, Wellington, NZ

====

Beautiful location. Thoroughly enjoyed staying in Kotare Muse.
So clean, peaceful and well-appointed.
Wonderful hosts & home baking delicious!

A & M, Auckland, NZ

====

We have had an outstanding experience. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality.
You have been amazing hosts and we have loved coming back to this
little paradise at the end of a busy day of activities.

D & M, North Shore, Auckland, NZ

====

Can’t begin to thank you enough for your warm hospitality and the time and
effort you extended to help me plan an incredible visit to Golden Bay. The chalet is just gorgeous (and ohhhh that bed!) and your special touches to welcome me and
make sure all of my needs were met are sincerely appreciated.

A, New York, USA

====

Thank you for all your hospitality while we were here – such a beautiful,
relaxing place to stay in. Thank you for going that extra mile and for all your suggestions.

T & A, Wellington, NZ

====

We were so touched by your warm welcome on our honeymoon.
Your thoughtfulness made our first trip on NZ’s South Island extra special. We were so grateful for all of your tips and advice on sight-seeing
– made for a packed and eventful couple of days.
Thank you for your hospitality – such a lovely home.

M & R, Seattle, USA

====

First class everything. Thanks for your many special touches. Lovely.

D & I, B.C., Canada

====

A calm and immaculate setting from which to explore some of the many delights
this region has to offer. Thank you Julie & Mark. We hope to be back.

J & M, Melbourne, Australia

====

Thank you Mark & Julie. Loved staying in your lovely chalet,
very comfortable and had everything we needed. Your hospitality was beyond
and made us feel special and spoilt, so again, thank you.

G & S, Christchurch, NZ

====

Thank you so much for a stunning place to unwind
for our anniversary, and for the treats.
We’ll be back.

C & C, Nelson, NZ

====

Thank you both for making this part of our honeymoon so special.
Your chalet is everything and more with all the special little touches.
I hope we will be back here again.

J & E, County Tyrone, N. Ireland

====

Julie & Mark warmly welcomed us with a special gift for our honeymoon that we will never forget. Our stay has been so peaceful and the chalet has everything you need.
We would happily stay again and again – thank you for being such great hosts.

A & R, Kaikoura, NZ

====

Kotare Muse fulfilled all our expectations. Thank you for everything. We will not forget you and your beautifully designed refuge and this
precious part of planet earth.

B & K, Vancouver, B.C., Canada

====

What a gorgeous getaway you have created here in Golden Bay.
We most certainly will be back. Lovely amenities, gorgeous sheets, deck & grill and above all very private and quiet.
We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

B & H, Nelson & Gisborne, NZ

====

What a delightful treat to stay at Kotare Muse. Total quality, attention to detail and immaculate. Fabulous retreat in glorious garden.
Wonderful hosts. 

D & C, Nelson & Auckland, NZ

====

Thank you Julie & Mark for making our stay so special. You have created a stylish and comfortable environment – this is the nicest place we have stayed throughout NZ. Lovely little touches.
Outside lovely too. Helpful hosts and a real warmth as people.
We will be back.

A & J, North Canterbury, NZ

====

Time here made all the more special by the kind and generous hosting of Julie & Mark. Luxurious yet laid back and our every need and desire thought of and catered to – can’t thank you enough. We will be singing your praises on the other side of the hill.

L & L, Richmond, NZ

====

The most fabulous experience, meeting the two of you and
experiencing your warm hospitality in this lovely setting. The chalet is so charming – cosy, welcoming with all the amenities one could need and
delicious scones as an added bonus. We felt so at home here and
especially valued your excellent advice on things to see and do.
This has been the highlight of our 2 week tour of the upper South Island and we feel grateful for the serendipity that brought us together.

I & S, USA & NZ

====

A lovely secluded hideaway, beautifully presented, a home away from home with a touch of luxury. Thank you for your hospitality.

F, Wellington, NZ

====

We absolutely loved our stay. You are so warm and generous, lovely hosts and Kotare Muse was beyond our expectations. Beautiful, peaceful place to chill, delicious scones and so comfortable.

S & B, NZ

====

A beautiful setting and convenient location. Chalet well set up for a delightful stay.

B & G, Mount Maunganui, NZ

====

Thank you Julie & Mark for your hospitality and all the extra little touches. It’s a beautiful chalet and perfect environment to relax.
A perfect sanctuary, a very special place. The extra treats were a delight.

P & D, Christchurch, NZ

====

Thank you Julie and Mark. We are delighted we booked your beautiful chalet, in quiet countryside. So special and delightful. Your scones are divine! 

A & M, Warkworth, NZ

=========================================

Unabridged comments from our guest book

• About Us ~ your hosts Julie & Mark

Mark Jones & Julie Cornthwaite, owners of Kotare Muse Chalet

Originally from UK, we have been living in Golden Bay for many years, (Julie for over 17, Mark 30 plus). We are a friendly and caring couple who really enjoy meeting and welcoming people to our lovely guest chalet. 

Having travelled extensively in many parts of the world, especially working in ship–based adventure tourism, coupled with Julie’s background in corporate event management, we know what it takes to create a welcoming haven to relax in when on the road. With a keen attention to detail, we pride ourselves on providing not only a spotlessly clean and comfortable retreat, but a practical and happy place in which to comfortably chill out while holidaying in Golden Bay.

 

In our professional lives, together with our business partner Tui De Roy, we are award-winning wildlife photographers and authors, having published over 16 major books, with photos appearing in publications in over 40 countries. We specialise in photographing rare and endangered species from remote locations worldwide. We have unique coverage and expert knowledge of the Galapagos Islands in particular.

In Kotare Muse we’re proud to display some of the photographs and large format books we have produced from our various worldwide expeditions.

“ Julie & Mark stand out for their warmth and genuine welcome. Their personalities shine in their beautiful cottage — well designed and appointed. We were so very comfortable here . A truly pleasant stay with grand hosts”

Y & G, Santa Rosa, California, USA

Kotare Muse Chalet Logo
< External links to our professional photography & consultancy websites >

• Golden Bay ~ location & environs

“ We will not forget your beautifully designed refuge and this precious part of Planet Earth ”

B & K, Vancouver, B.C.

Kotare Muse Chalet Logo

Golden Bay is at the north-westernmost tip of New Zealand’s South Island in the Tasman Region, framed by three of New Zealand's premiere wilderness regions — Farewell Spit Nature Reserve, scenic Abel Tasman National Park & the vast Kahurangi National Park. With generally superb weather patterns both summer & winter, and a small, diverse yet friendly population, Golden Bay is a unique and natural enclave. Altogether creating an appealingly remote location, with an easily accessible spirit.

Kotare Muse is located in a small, riverside rural-residential area, some 4 minutes drive east of the thriving Takaka township, and approximately halfway towards the bustling Pohara beachside communities. Great local cafés and restaurants, supermarket and shops, cinema and an eclectic mix of artists' galleries and workshops are only a few minutes drive away. Our small friendly community has views across verdant pastures to the rugged mountains, and we are centrally located for access to all of Golden Bay's numerous natural attractions and walking tracks.

Getting around:  Whilst Golden Bay is diverse in its culture, and there are regular bus services from Nelson and Motueka to Takaka, we are not particularly well serviced with local public transport options, so travelling in your own vehicle is highly recommended.

Driving times:  To Takaka it is approx 4+ hours from Picton Ferry terminal (240km), or about 13/4 hours drive from Nelson City / Nelson Airport. Travelling over the legendary and spectacular Takaka Hill, allow slightly over 1 hour from Motueka to Takaka, then taking the road towards Pohara, it is just 4 minutes more from Takaka to our Kotare Muse Chalet.

Locally we are 5 minutes drive east to Pohara; 9 minutes to Tata Beach; 50 minutes to Totaranui Beach and campground. Or, travelling northwest, it’s about 10 minutes to Waikoropupu Springs; 20 minutes to the infamous Mussel Inn; 25 minutes to Collingwood, and about an hour to Farewell Spit, with the celebrated Wharariki Beach a little beyond. Motupipi Hill walking and mountain biking tracks are accessible just a hundred metres from the chalet, and it's but a few minute’s drive to the local beaches or river estuary. There are a variety of beach walks, bush tracks and day hikes to suit all energy levels. Boats can be easily launched from several safe locations around the bay, and kayaking/paddle-boarding are popular activities around many local coastlines, estuaries and beaches. 

All told, in Golden Bay there is more than enough variety of both natural and cultural pursuits to appeal to any visitor, and we all too often hear guests comment that they wished they could have stayed longer and seen more.

 

Kotare Muse Location map
< External links to further Golden Bay information >

• Book your stay with us now …

Please make a reservation request by either contacting us directly or, if you prefer, by booking via one of the two commercial accommodation sites (links provided below).

Helpful information to include in your booking request:

  • Your name — plus the name of any travelling companion.
  • Your contact information — please check this is typed correctly.
  • Indicate your preferred dates (of course!) for both your arrival & departure.
  • Tell us a little bit about yourself, and where you will be travelling from.
  • Also whether you’re just holidaying, or if it’s a special occasion or celebration.


“ A home away from home with
a touch of luxury ”

F.H. Wellington, NZ

Kotare Muse Chalet Logo

We always respond to enquiries, usually right away, but it can take up to 24 hours depending on our circumstances. Very occasionally we take our own short breaks away, so if we happen to be in the backcountry, or maybe travelling internationally, this can leave us out of communication for a couple of days. 

In all cases, please be assured we will reply as soon as is practicable.

~ Direct Bookings:  Rates Schedule ~ 

~ Availability calendar ~

Please check if your preferred dates are free, then make your request accordingly.

Kotare Muse Chalet Logo

We have a 2-night minimum stay most of the year, but apply a
3-night minimum during peak summer season (unless
filling in dates between other bookings).
Sorry, no single-night stays are bookable at any time.

Available to book

Unavailable

< Problem viewing this calendar? Open it in a separate window >

Sorry, we are temporarily closed
due to major upgrades to our
driveway & main house.

2025 to 2026 Season

**Winter 2024 

**1 – 30 November 2024 

1 December 2024 – 21 April 2025

**22 April – 2 June 2025

**Winter 2025

 price per night

……. $140

……. $150

……. $160

……. $150

……. $145

** Discounted rates for longer, off-peak-season stays (only available on
direct bookings): 6 or 7 nights = 5% discount; 8+ nights = 10% discount.

 Please note: at this time direct bookings are exempt from GST taxes.

“ Comfortable and peaceful. Love the ingenious design.”

R & S, Dunedin, NZ

Kotare Muse Chalet Logo

Sorry, we are temporarily closed
due to major upgrades to our
driveway & main house.

Kotare Muse Chalet Logo Direct enquiry icon

Direct Enquiries

Click here to contact us

~ Terms & Conditions for direct bookings ~ 

Prior to booking, please read and understand all of our Terms & Conditions set out below: 

House Rules. 

During your stay we would greatly appreciate if you could please help us to keep our chalet looking nice and welcoming, for both yourself and future guests. We expect our guests to take good care of the chalet & its contents, and kindly ask that the property is left clean and tidy upon departure.

If needed, we are always available to help with any queries or specific requests. We also provide a comprehensive chalet-guide manual, and kindly request that a few simple housekeeping rules are observed: 

  • No outdoor shoes to be worn inside chalet.
  • No smoking, vaping or drugs in the chalet or on the premises
  • No cooking equipment or other electrical appliances, other than those supplied, to be used in or outside the chalet.
  • No visitors unless by prior arrangement with the hosts.
  • No events or parties.
  • No pets allowed.
  • Please kindly report any damage or breakages: replacement charges may apply.

Payments Schedule. 

Please use our contact form to initiate the booking process. Your reservation will be confirmed by personal email in which we will provide the complete pricing & payment details, together with any other particulars applicable to your booking request. 

The following payment terms will apply to all direct bookings: 

  • Payments should be made by Direct Credit via online banking. We are currently unable to accept credit card payments.
  • For guests booking directly from overseas, for a small admin surcharge to cover exchange rate conversions, we can accept payments in many currencies. Click here for a popup with more details about paying from overseas without incurring excessive international transfer charges.
  • A 50% deposit will be required within 48 hours to secure your reservation, with the full balance payable at the latest 30 days prior to arrival.
  • Bookings within 3 to 30 days of arrival: The full balance will be payable within 24 hours to secure your reservation.
  • Last-minute direct bookings within 48 hours of check-in: cash payment in full on arrival preferred.

Cancellation & Refund Policy. 

If you cancel your direct booking reservation:

  • Guests who cancel their reservation at least 30 days before check-in will receive a refund of 100% of the amount paid less a $50.00 administration fee.
  • Guests who cancel their reservation between 15 and 29 days before check-in will receive a 50% refund of the amount paid less a $50.00 administration fee. If any of the cancelled dates are subsequently booked by another guest, a further refund will be issued, equivalent to 50% of the number of previously reserved nights that are sold. If none of your dates are rebooked, there will be no further refund issued:  For example, if you cancel a 5-night reservation, but 2 nights subsequently become rebooked, you will receive an additional refund equal to 50% of the price charged for those two nights (the price subsequently charged may differ from the original nightly rate dependent on any special offer used to promote your cancelled dates).
  • No refund payable to guests who cancel 14 days or less before check-in.

In the unlikely event that we need to cancel your reservation (to date, this has never happened):                                          

  • If, due to unforeseen & extenuating circumstances, we have to cancel your reservation, we will refund your payment in full.
  • We will not be responsible for finding alternative accommodation for you, and no compensation will be payable. 

“ Your hospitality and thoughtfulness
has been fantastic”

B & T, Christchurch, NZ

Kotare Muse Chalet Logo

“ The best airbnb we
have stayed in ”

S.W. & J.J. Auckland, NZ

Kotare Muse Chalet Logo

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~ Kotare Muse can also be booked via these commercial accommodation sites ~ 

Note: Both Airbnb & VRBO apply their own reservation rules, with additional booking commissions and the inclusion of NZ GST / VAT taxes. The specifics of payment schedules and cancellation penalties implemented on these sites are outside our control.

~ Book with us directly for the most economical, commission-free rates available ~

Please note: The quality of the services and amenities that we provide in Kotare Muse Chalet, plus any personalised touches, remain identical regardless of how you choose to book our accommodation. 

Kotare Muse Chalet Logo Direct enquiry icon

Direct Enquiries

Click here to contact us

Guest Favourite

Five Star
★★★★★

Kotare Muse Chalet airbnb superhost badge

  Super Host Status ~ Eight consecutive years Listed in the Top 1%  of Airbnb Homes

Kotare Muse Chalet airbnb superhost badge
Kotare Muse Chalet AirBnB LinkKotare Muse Chalet AirBnB Link

Instant booking available to verified airbnb guests 

Kotare Muse Chalet VRBO & Bookabach link logo
Kotare Muse Chalet Homeaway link Logo
Kotare Muse Chalet Premier Host badge

Premier Host Status 

★10.0 / 10 Exceptional

All rights reserved. 

Photos and information appearing on this site are copyrighted. © Julie Cornthwaite / Kotare Muse Chalet 

Its components cannot be shared, reproduced or reused in any way. Thank you for your understanding.

Kotare Muse Chalet Logo

Website creation: Mark Jones, Roving Tortoise Publishing, Takaka, Golden Bay, New Zealand.