Reviews from guests who stayed at this hotel, shared by our hotel supplier. Score based on the latest 83 reviews.
Natasha
New Zealand · Solo · August 2026
+What a beautiful place to stay! Everything was so clean, tidy and welcoming, with an amazing view. We felt so comfortable and relaxed here. Our hosts were lovely, and we were so happy to have precious Sam the dog come to visit us and proudly show off his toy. Such a special stay we didn’t want to leave
mauro
Australia · Couple · August 2026
“Spectacular view and one of the best Air BNB we have stayed at!”
+My wife did not want to leave!
Lauren
New Zealand · Couple · June 2026
“Luxurious and cosy stay”
+We had a beautiful stay at The River Cottage. It was the perfect place to unwind after a half marathon. The cottage was extremely comfortable, warm, luxurious and with the most comfy bed. Everything was perfection!
James
United Kingdom · Couple · March 2026
“Stunning rural cottage”
+River View is a true gem. A stunning high quality cottage with incredible views. Whilst it feels incredibly remote, it is only 20 minutes from Havelock North and 10 minutes from the wonderful Red Bridge coffee hut. Sarah was a wonderful host and was incredibly kind to give us a lift to and from the nearby Craggy Range winery for our wine tasting. Sarah has two very friendly dogs who visit the cottage occasionally, but she was careful to check with us first to make sure that was ok with us.
−Nothing. One of the most stunning places I have visited.
Wendy
Australia · Couple · February 2026
“Highly recommend this stunning property with one of the most beautiful views we’ve experienced in our travels.”
+Words can not describe how special this cottage is. The cottage is immaculate, brilliant location, peaceful and the view is stunning. Sarah and Dave a lovely hosts and leave you to relax and enjoy the serenity. Dogs Sam and Bob and very cute, friendly and amusing. Proximity to Craggy Range winery and restaurant is a plus. Delicious lunch. Our stay here was the highlight of our holiday.
−Having to leave 😢
Emi
United States · Couple · February 2026
“An enchanting cottage with magical views”
+Hands down, one of our favorite places we've ever stayed in. An absolutely pristine private cottage in a gorgeous, tranquil setting. The incredible property is surrounded by bucolic scenery overlooking a river. The views are unbelievable and we happily spent a lot of time just sitting and marveling with a glass of wine. Truly a special place to unwind, relax, and get away from it all. The spacious cottage is modern with very high quality amenities. The shower/bathroom is fabulous as is the large, comfy bed. The kitchen is also excellent and it was nice to cook a few meals. The hosts were so wonderful and kind. They really make you feel welcomed. We enjoyed having their lovely two dogs, Sam and Bobby, around too! Such a pleasure coming here and has been the highlight of our North Island travels. We definitely hope to return and stay longer! Many thanks, Sarah and Dave, for having us. An utterly enchanting stay.
−Absolutely nothing!
Peter
United States · Couple · January 2026
“Superb cottage, modern, comfortable, with great view, peaceful surroundings, welcoming hosts”
+This was our second stay at River View and, just as last year, it is perhaps the best place that we have stayed at in our travels in New Zealand. The cottage is modern, immaculate, comfortable, private, with a beautiful view over the river and the hills. We very much enjoy our contact with Sarah and Dave and their advice on things in the area. They also have a very nice pool that we enjoyed each morning. It is not far from Hastings and Napier and the many wineries in the area. Ocean Beach is excellent and not far away. Our highest recommendation for this as a lodging.
Kaitlin
Australia · Couple · January 2026
“Gorgeous cottage with views, ideal for enjoying the Hawke’s Bay region”
+This is a perfect place to enjoy the stunning views across the Tuki Tuki River and valley, while still being a close easy drive to all the places you want to see around Hawke’s Bay. The cottage is pristine, spacious, modern and has all the amenities you could want. The layout is thoughtful and private, nicely separate in aspect from the main house. Our hosts Sarah and Dave were welcoming and helpful, with tips on what to see and do. Two friendly dogs, Sam and Bobby, were a definite bonus! If you’re after a great sight seeing base that offers comfort, peace and a divine outlook, this is the place for you.
−Nothing
Hanno
Germany · Couple · December 2025
“If we’re ever even remotely in the area again, we would book here again in a heartbeat. Highly recommended!”
+It was such a pleasure to meet Sarah, Dave, Sam & Bobby - you couldn’t ask for more welcoming hosts! We enjoyed every single day from morning to evening. The cottage is excellently equipped and tastefully decorated, and the bed was super comfortable. The stunning views captivated us anew each morning. The location is perfect as a starting point for hikes in the surrounding area, and wineries and well as restaurants in the more urban areas are easily accessible.
−That we had to leave!
Kenneth
United States · Couple · December 2025
+Views are great
−A little hard to get to, but worth it.