Guest Comments

Grapes in Autumn

Matakana Estate Olives

View from Bella Vista CottageView from Bella Vista Cottage

Grapes in the MistGrapes in the Mist

"We were looking for a relaxing base from where we could explore the Matakana region and found the ideal refuge at Bella Vista Vineyard Cottage. The location is excellent within easy reach of the myriad of beaches, vineyards and small villages which make the area such a great place to wind down and enjoy life. The cottage is ideally situated in beautiful countryside with phenomenal views. Each evening we sat on the terrace and toasted the sun setting over the vines and then enjoyed the clear night sky. But it is the cottage that makes the experience special. Carmel and Mark have thought of everything that could be provided to make this a very special place. Every creature comfort is provided and Carmel and Mark were there unobtrusively to ensure that our stay was as good as it could be. We recommend Bella Vista Vineyard Cottage to anyone looking for an exceptional experience in a beautiful part of New Zealand"

P and J. W.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Feb 2009


"Perfection! Thank you so much for sharing your creation with us. Just when we thought we had seen the best we arrived at ‘Bella Vista'. Carmel and mark you have made our time with you magical. We will be back....."

S and S.C.

Norwich. United Kingdom. March 2009.


"Just spent a wonderful weekend at Bella Vista. The cottage is lovely; great views, great facilities. Everything you need for a weekend break close to Auckland. Carmel and Mark are amazing hosts supplying complimentary wine and goodies, as well as free advice on places to visit in and around Matakana. While we were there for a family weekend, can't wait to go back when we have more time to relax and enjoy the cottage and the amazing vineyard surroundings."

G.H

Whitford, Auckland. February 2010.


"A simply stunning location (how about those unspoilt views, Matakana is NZ's best kept secret). The cottage though was our true highlight - impeccably well kept, everything you could possibly need, and an endless list of small but special touches that made our stay truly memorable!!! Carmel and Mark - thank you and well done! Will definitely be recommending this little treasure to our "mates' back in Ozzie."

The S family. Queensland, Australia. February 2010.


Absolutely superb Carmel and Mark. You have created a little piece of paradise here and it is completely faultless. Your attention to detail is fabulous - lovely flowers in the rooms, every amenity thought of, great selection of CD's and DVD's, lovely food and wine and views to die for.... We would have stayed forever, and the cattle in the field in front and the Highlanders next door were an added bonus for us! Thank you for everything - we will recommend to all our friends to recover here after their flight out."

J and J. B . Scotland. February 2010.