Another on Leo, Waihi Beach – A True Home Away From Home

On our latest trip to Waihi Beach, we decided — very last minute (as in, the day before!) — to book a proper house instead of our usual smaller stays. We’ve been trying to lean more into “living” in New Zealand when we visit, especially in places we love returning to, and Another on Leo turned out to be exactly the kind of base we’d hoped for.

We’d spotted it on a few booking platforms before and always thought it looked good value. We booked five nights initially, and while it was definitely far too big for just the two of us, it was absolutely perfect in every other way. In fact, it would comfortably suit 6–8 people — and we immediately said that if we brought the four kids over next time, there would be more than enough room without everyone being on top of each other.

Why We Chose It

We had a few non-negotiables:

• Outdoor space

• BBQ

• Washing machine

• Proper, full kitchen

• A separate bedroom (not a studio)

  

  

I’m an early riser and often working around the UK time difference, writing and getting bits done while Craig is still asleep. Having separate spaces makes such a difference — for both productivity and peace!

And the kitchen was a big deal for us. We don’t tend to eat out much when we’re in NZ (apart from coffees and the occasional treat). I love cooking with local ingredients and trying new recipes, and basic kitchenettes or campsite kitchens can feel really restrictive. Having a full kitchen means we eat properly and actually enjoy the process.

First Impressions

Pre-arrival communication and check-in details were incredibly clear and helpful — always a good sign. But walking in? It exceeded expectations.

We already knew the location because we’d seen it being built on previous visits, alongside its neighbour.

The position is a major draw:

• 2-minute walk to the beach

• 5-minute walk to Flat White, one of our favourite beachside coffee spots

Perfect for Craig’s night fishing, my early morning swims or runs, and evening beach walks.

The Layout – Ideal for Families or Groups

You enter via a well-equipped utility room with a washing machine and tumble dryer (which turned out to be a lifesaver later).

From there, you step into a second lounge/den with a loveseat and sofa bed. Off this space are:

• Two double bedrooms

• A family bathroom with both shower and bath

Then you move into the main living area, and this is where it really opens up. Huge patio doors lead onto a massive deck with a BBQ. One of the cleverest features is a full-width sliding wooden door that can separate this main living/kitchen/dining space from the second lounge and bedrooms. It’s genius — perfect if you’ve got kids in bed, teenagers wanting their own zone, or even another couple staying. For just the two of us, we left it open and enjoyed the space.

The main lounge has a huge modular corner sofa and entertainment system, flowing into an open-plan dining and kitchen area with a lovely big wooden bench-style table. The breakfast bar with stools made it really sociable when cooking.

The Kitchen (My Favourite Bit)

Hands down one of the best-equipped kitchens we’ve had while travelling:

• Full fridge freezer

• Dishwasher

• Bean-to-cup coffee machine (very appreciated!)

• Air fryer

• Walk-in larder

• Ninja blender

• Proper cookware and utensils

It made cooking with local produce and fresh fish an absolute joy rather than a chore.

The Master Suite

Just off the living room is the master bedroom (ours), with patio doors onto the deck, a walk-in wardrobe, and a stylish ensuite with shower. Like the rest of the house, it was immaculate, beautifully laid out, and clearly very well looked after.

When the Weather Turned

We visited in mid-January — summer — but ended up caught in a tropical storm that caused flooding, landslips, and major damage across the wider area.

We had one housebound day and a few anxious moments as the holiday park next door and behind evacuated, along with some neighbours. Thankfully, because of the home’s slightly raised position and decked access, the water never came past the second step at the front. Apart from moving the car to higher ground, we stayed dry and safe.

The washing machine and tumble dryer were absolute heroes during those days — especially with our beachy, outdoorsy lifestyle.

Staying Longer

Due to storm damage on surrounding roads, including the gorge and SH2, we decided to extend our stay. The management agents, TPM, were incredibly helpful and made the extension easy as they had availability.

Final Thoughts

Another on Leo gives you that rare mix of:

• Comfort

• Space

• A touch of luxury

• An unbeatable location

It works just as well for a couple wanting room to breathe as it would for a family or group of friends. No matter what the weather throws at you, it’s a place where you can truly switch off while still living well — cooking great food, enjoying the beach, and having space to relax.

We’ve already said we’ll definitely stay here again.

Highly, highly recommended.