Highly Reviewed Since 2019
Contact & Bookings for Wainui Seaside Glamping
Wainui Seaside Glamping is located on Ōhiwa Harbour, 15 minutes from Ōhope Beach, and offers two private couples’ retreats: Barnie and Seaside Escape.
Bookings are managed through Canopy Camping Escapes, where you can check availability and book Barnie or Seaside Escape.
Many questions are answered in the Frequently Asked Questions section below. For anything not covered there, please send us a message using the contact form. We look forward to helping you plan your stay and welcoming you to Wainui Seaside Glamping.
Contact Wainui Seaside Glamping
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Stay
If you’re considering a private getaway at Wainui Seaside Glamping, these frequently asked questions will help you learn more about staying at Barnie or Seaside Escape. They cover the practical details, including booking, arrival, facilities, local activities, and how to contact us.
Answers to questions about each retreat can also be found on Barnie and Seaside Escape pages.
Which retreat at Wainui Seaside Glamping is pet-friendly?
Barnie is a dog-friendly retreat allowing couples to bring their much loved furry freind.
For details about what to bring and how to prepare for your dog’s stay, visit the page about Barnie or read our guide, “Dog-Friendly Glamping Near Ōhope Beach: What to Know.”
Guest Review - M. Louis, July 2026
“Amazing stay at Barnie! Relaxing, beautiful surroundings, and our dog loved it! She was in heaven for two days! A lot of running around and swimming! Thanks to Aleisha and Tony for being so welcoming too!”
Is there a minimum stay at Wainui Seaside Glamping?
Yes, most stays at Barnie and Seaside Escape require a minimum booking of two nights. Minimum-stay requirements may vary for weekends, public holidays, and selected seasonal periods.
For the most accurate information, select Book Barnie or Book Seaside Escape to view current availability and minimum-stay requirements in the live booking calendar managed by Canopy Camping Escapes.
What times can we check-in and check-out?
Guests usually check in between 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm, or later by prior arrangement, and check out by 10:00 am unless a later time has been arranged.
The day before your stay, please confirm your estimated arrival time (eta) for the host to schedule your welcome and retreat transfer.
On arrival, the host will meet you at the guest parking area and transport you and your belongings in the Can-Am 4WD, making the journey to Barnie or Seaside Escape easy and relaxed. Guest reviews often share how much they appreciate this personal welcome and the time taken to help them settle in and begin their stay comfortably.
Guest review - Jason & Kelly, May 2022
“This place has touched our hearts!!! We leave today leaving a piece of us behind which we will be back to retrieve! Amazing hosts and place. Heaven.”
How do we get to and from Barnie or Seaside Escape after arriving?
On arrival, the host will meet you at the guest parking area and transport you and your belongings to Barnie or Seaside Escape in the Can-Am 4WD.
During your stay, the retreat is reached on foot along a private walking track of approximately 300 metres. The walk takes about five minutes and includes a hill, so comfortable, practical footwear is recommended.
For safety and privacy, guest vehicles remain in the parking area at the top of the property, and visitors are not permitted on the property. This helps keep the retreat peaceful and reserved exclusively for those staying with us.
How many people can stay?
Barnie and Seaside Escape are private couples’ retreats, each designed for a maximum of two adults sharing a queen-sized bed.
Both retreats offer a peaceful, intimate setting for couples wanting to slow down, spend time together, and enjoy the natural beauty of Ōhiwa Harbour.
What bedding and linen are provided?
Barnie and Seaside Escape each has a comfortable queen-sized bed prepared with fresh bed linen, and bath towels are supplied for your stay with plenty of blankets.
If you are planning to swim, kayak, or spend time at Ōhope Beach make sure to bring your own beach towels.
Guests bringing a dog to Barnie may also like to pack a separate towel for drying off wet or sandy paws after an adventure.
What kitchen facilities does Barnie have?
Barnie has everything needed for relaxed self-catering, including a gas oven and cooktop, full-sized fridge and freezer, Weber BBQ, cookware, crockery, and utensils.
We also provide a few pantry basics, including oil, salt, pepper, tea, coffee, milk, and a coffee plunger - just bring your favourite coffee and whatever you love to cook or enjoy during your stay.
Water for the kitchen sink is heated on the gas stove, while a gas califont supplies hot water to the shower and outdoor bath.
For a closer look at Barnie’s facilities and features, visit the page about Barnie.
What kitchen facilities does Seaside Escape have?
Seaside Escape has a rustic kitchen behind the cosy cottage. It includes a food-preparation space, full-sized fridge and freezer, microwave, crockery, glassware, and cooking utensils.
Inside, a bar table looks across Ōhiwa Harbour towards Ōhope Spit, offering a peaceful spot for breakfast or morning coffee. Outside, the covered cooking area has two gas cooking rings and a sheltered bench for preparing simple meals.
Pantry basics including oil, salt, pepper, tea, coffee, milk, and a coffee plunger are provided. Simply bring your favourite coffee, food and treats to enjoy cooking during your stay.
A gas califont supplies hot water to the kitchen sink, shower, and outdoor bath.
Does each retreat have a private bathroom and outdoor bath?
Yes, Barnie and Seaside Escape each have their own private bathroom facilities and outdoor bath with peaceful views across the surrounding landscape and towards Ōhiwa Harbour.
Each bathroom has an enclosed shower, hand basin, and a high-quality Swedish composting toilet. The toilets are simple to use, freshly prepared for every stay, and reflect a thoughtful, eco-conscious approach.
The outdoor baths are popular in the evenings, when guests can listen to the birdsong, and enjoy the changing light over the harbour and magical starry skies. Hot water is supplied by a gas califont, and bath towels and bubble bath are provided.
Is power available at the retreats?
Yes, Barnie and Seaside Escape are both powered by off-grid solar systems, providing the everyday comforts you’ll need during your stay, including lighting, refrigeration, and charging for smaller devices such as phones, tablets, and laptops.
The systems work well with the facilities provided. High-energy appliances such as hairdryers, hair straighteners, electric kettles, and personal coffee machines are best left at home, as they can draw more power than the off-grid system is designed to supply.
The hosts live off-grid too, with their homestead powered by the sun. After more than 10 years of using solar, it has become a natural part of life at Wainui Seaside Glamping.
Is there mobile reception, Wi-Fi, or television?
Mobile reception is available, although signal strength may vary depending on your network provider and where you are on the property. A stronger signal can sometimes be found by stepping outside or moving to a slightly higher point near the retreat.
Wi-Fi and television are not available at Barnie or Seaside Escape. Many guests enjoy the opportunity to switch off from everyday notifications and spend more time enjoying the harbour views, outdoor baths, native birdlife, and each other’s company.
Both retreats have a generous collection of board games, a selection of books and Barnie, a record player, records, a piano and guitars for guests to enjoy.
Is heating available during cooler weather?
Yes, Barnie and Seaside Escape each have an indoor wood burner to keep the retreat warm and cosy during winter stays. The fire also adds a lovely atmosphere on cooler evenings, and plenty of extra blankets are provided for added comfort.
You’ll find more information about each retreat’s seasonal features on the Barnie and Seaside Escape pages.
What should we bring for our stay?
While most essentials are provided, we recommend bringing personal toiletries, sunscreen, a beach towel for swimming or kayaking, and comfortable shoes for the private walking track.
A light raincoat, warm layers, and a torch or headlamp are useful year-round. During winter, warm socks, slippers, a hat, waterproof outerwear, and practical footwear will help you stay comfortable while enjoying the outdoors.
Guests bringing a dog to Barnie may also like to pack a separate towel for drying wet or sandy paws, and creature comforts including their bed and toys.
How near is Wainui Seaside Glamping to beaches, cafés, restaurants, and supermarkets?
Ōhope’s cafés, restaurants, beach, and local Four Square are a 15-minute drive away, while central Whakatāne and Supermarkets a 20-minute drive.
Ōhope offers everything from relaxed cafes and takeaways to restaurant and pub/tavern dining for special occasions including:
Ōhope Beach Tavern
Address: 7 Bluett Road, Ōhope Beach 3121
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ohope.chartered/
Ōhope Beach Tavern is a relaxed coastal bar and restaurant offering casual meals, drinks, big-screen sports, pool, and regular live entertainment. Welcoming both locals and visitors, it is an easy-going place to enjoy lunch, dinner, drinks, or an evening out near Ōhope Beach.
Fisherman’s Wharf Café
Address: 340 Harbour Road, Ōhope 3121
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fishermanswharfcafeohope
Fisherman’s Wharf offers relaxed waterfront dining with seafood, cafe favourites, and views across the harbour.
Moxi Café
Address: 102 Pōhutukawa Avenue, Ōhope 3121
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moxicafeohope
Moxi is known for its lively coastal atmosphere, fresh coffee, and stylish contemporary setting.
The Quay Café & Restaurant
Address: 22 Pohutukawa Avenue, Ōhope 3121
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thequayohope
The Quay offers relaxed seaside dining, with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the reserve towards Ōhope Beach.
Ōhope Craft Market
Address: Bluett Road, Ōhope 3121
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ohopecraftmarket
The craft market brings together locally made arts, crafts, gifts, and fresh produce for an enjoyable local experience.
Opening hours and menus may change seasonally, so it is worth checking each venue before visiting.
These cafes are all a short drive from Wainui Seaside Glamping, making it simple to enjoy a relaxed breakfast, lunch, coffee, or evening meal while exploring Ōhope Beach and the surrounding area.
Explore Seaside Escape Retreat.
Approximate driving times from Wainui Seaside Glamping are:
- Ōhope Beach - 15 minutes
- Ōhope Four Square - 15 minutes
- Central Whakatāne, Supermarkets and Grocery Stores - 20 minutes
- Ōhiwa Beach - 20 minutes
- Waiotahe Beach - 25 minutes
What can we do at Wainui Seaside Glamping?
There is plenty to enjoy without planning a busy itinerary. Depending on the weather and tide, guests can kayak, fish, swim, explore the harbour’s edge, relax in the outdoor bath, read, play games, listen to music, or simply enjoy the privacy of their retreat.
Barnie also has records, a piano, and guitars, while Seaside Escape offers peaceful decking, expansive harbour views, and a quiet setting surrounded by native bush and birdsong.
Ōhope Beach, local cafés, scenic walks, and central Whakatāne are all within an easy drive, making it simple to combine restful time at Wainui with exploring the wider area.
For more inspiration, read:
Top 10 Things to Do Near Ōhope Beach for Couples
“Where to Eat Near Ōhope Beach and Ōhiwa Harbour”
Can we swim, kayak, and fish from the property?
Yes, when the weather, tide, and harbour conditions are suitable. Wainui Seaside Glamping sits beside tidal Ōhiwa Harbour, so water access and activities will vary throughout the day.
Kayaks and life jackets are available for guests to use. You are also welcome to bring your own life jacket for the most comfortable and secure fit. A SUP or Stand Up Board, is available at Barnie for guests to use also.
Before swimming, kayaking, or fishing, please check the current tide and conditions and follow the water-safety guidance provided in the guest Welcome Guide.
What are 10 things to do near Ōhope Beach?
Ōhope is known for its long sandy beach, coastal scenery, safe swimming spots, surf, pōhutukawa-lined dunes, and relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Set between the Pacific Ocean and Ōhiwa Harbour, it also offers easy access to walking trails, kayaking, golf, cafés, wildlife experiences, and nearby Whakatāne.
Ten experiences to consider are:
- Spend a relaxed morning or afternoon at Ōhope Beach.
- Walk part of Ngā Tapuwae o Toi, the scenic coastal and native-forest trail.
- Cycle or walk the gentle Ōhope Harbourside Trail and Motu Trails near Ōpotiki.
- Explore Ōhiwa Harbour by kayak or paddleboard.
- Visit local cafés, restaurants and waterfront dining spots.
- Play a round at the scenic Ōhope Beach Golf Links.
- Take a guided nature trip to Moutohorā Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Take a cruise with Tio Ōhiwa or enjoy Live Events at Mata Breweries or Ōhope Tavern.
- Try surfing or book a lesson at West End, Ōhope.
- Enjoy fishing, beach walking, birdwatching, or a coastal picnic.
Before heading out, check the weather, tides, track conditions, tour availability, and individual opening hours.
Read our recent blog on Things to Do During Your Stay in the area and here.
Is Wainui Seaside Glamping dog-friendly?
Yes, Barnie the Glamping Barn is dog friendly and a wonderful option for couples to bring their much loved dog.
Guest Review: A Rian & Rocky, March 2026
“The most tranquil, private, and idyllic stay with the warmest welcoming hosts. Everything you need for a retreat weekend away! My furry friend Rocky and I had the best time kayaking, exploring, soaking in the outdoor bath, gazing up at the stars, and quite simply just existing in serenity. Barnie has sparked a little something inside of me to consciously make time to recalibrate, relax, and rejuvenate in the beauty that is nature. Truly a wonderful spot, and a wonderful weekend. Thank you so much for having us. Lots of love and appreciation.”
For more helpful information, read our latest guide, “Dog-Friendly Glamping Near Ōhope Beach: What to Know.” It covers what to expect and how to prepare for an enjoyable stay with your dog.
Are we allowed visitors during our stay?
No, for safety and privacy, visitors are not permitted on the property. This helps keep the retreat peaceful and reserved exclusively for guests booked to stay.
Is smoking or vaping permitted?
No, Wainui Seaside Glamping is a smoke-free and vape-free property.
This helps preserve the fresh natural environment and protects the surrounding land, accommodation, and native habitat from fire risk.
Can we light a campfire or use candles?
No, for guest safety, the fire risk in our rural setting does not permit outdoor fires and candles with an open flame.
Both retreats have a beautiful selection of LED candles, so you can still create a soft, cosy evening atmosphere.
Is Wainui Seaside Glamping suitable for birthdays and anniversaries?
Yes, the privacy, outdoor baths, harbour views, and peaceful surroundings make both Barnie and Seaside Escape lovely choices for celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or other meaningful occasion together.
For inspiration, Barnie and Seaside Escape each share guest experiences from couples who chose our retreat for birthdays, anniversaries, and special time together.
Is the property suitable for guests with limited mobility?
Wainui Seaside Glamping is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Access to Barnie and Seaside Escape involves a private walking track of approximately 300 metres, with a slope and natural rural surfaces. Both retreats also include steps, uneven ground, and separate buildings connected by outdoor areas.
For this reason, guests need to be comfortable walking both uphill and downhill during their stay.
How do we book Bay of Plenty glamping at Wainui?
Choose Barnie or Seaside Escape and follow the booking link to Canopy Camping Escapes. The live booking page shows current availability, nightly rates, minimum-stay requirements, and booking terms.
The hosts would love to welcome you to Wainui Seaside Glamping and share this special part of Ōhiwa Harbour with you. Seeing guests leave feeling rested, reconnected, and inspired by the time they have spent together in nature is at the heart of why they do what they do.
Guest Review - Rebecca & Marco, February 2020
“Fantastic spot for a relaxing break. Loved the personalised welcome from Aleisha. Particularly enjoyed kayaking around the island and soaking in the outdoor bath. Will let others know about this fabulous spot.”