Rata at The Apple Pickers' Cottages

Rata Cottage is a thoughtfully restored 1950s apple pickers’ cottage set on the Waimea Inlet, just minutes from Mapua village. This cottage offers rustic charm, privacy and a peaceful base for exploring Abel Tasman National Park and the wider Nelson Tasman region. The space Rata Cottage is nestled in regenerating native bush on a quiet five-acre organic property beside the Waimea Inlet. It is simple, warm and full of character — a place where the pace naturally slows and the outside world feels a little further away. Inside, the open-plan living and kitchen area is light and welcoming. The kitchen is well equipped for relaxed holiday cooking. Large doors open onto a private, sun-soaked deck with outdoor seating and a BBQ. Wander down the path behind the cottage for a secluded spot for morning coffee or an evening drink while listening to birdsong and overlooking the estuary. The bedroom is calm and cosy, with quality linen and a peaceful outlook to native bush that makes for excellent sleep. Rata Cottage is just five minutes drive from Mapua village, home to cafés, galleries, boutique shops, and the much-loved Mapua Wharf. It is perfectly positioned as a base for exploring Abel Tasman National Park, whether you’re planning coastal walks, kayaking, sailing or water-taxi day trips. The Great Taste Tasman Cycle Trail is close by, and there are beaches, rivers, vineyards and swimming spots throughout the region. The Apple Pickers’ Cottages are only 20 minutes from Nelson Airport, making arrival and departure easy. Rata Cottage is best suited to couples or solo travellers looking for a rustic, nature-centred stay with character — This is a place to slow down and reconnect with nature. Our forest restoration is a work in progress. We started 25 years ago, and every year hundreds more trees, shrubs and grasses are planted. We host volunteers from all over the world to help with this work. The end goal is to restore the coastal forest that once covered all the land around the Waimea Inlet. Guest access Guests have exclusive use of Rata Cottage and its garden, including a walking path through native forest to the shore of the Inlet. This is a peaceful, private space designed for quiet enjoyment and a close connection to nature. Guests are also welcome to explore our shared walking tracks around the rest of the property through regenerating coastal forest. You are also welcome to wander the wider property, which includes bush and shoreline walking tracks, wetland areas and quiet spots to sit by the inlet. Many guests enjoy early morning or evening walks around the property, spotting birdlife and watching the tides move in and out. While the property hosts other cottages, Rata is well positioned for privacy, with its own sense of space and separation. Other things to note Children 12+ There are three cottages at the Apple Pickers' Cottages: Karaka, Miro and Rata. See my host profile if you would like to have a look at the other two cottages.