Holiday on the shore

Chris Windram is more accustomed to entertaining overseas guests in her historic villa in Birkenhead than folk from the other side of the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

However, Aucklanders - particularly inner-city apartment dwellers - are choosing to explore their own city while staying at the five-star bed and breakfast Stafford Villa on the North Shore's Birkenhead Point.

Guests get to sleep in brass beds or a four-poster bed. Stafford Villa is a member of Heritage and Character Inns. Rates are $215 single and $245 double.

Contact: Stafford Villa at 2 Awanui Street, Birkenhead Point (09) 418 3022

www.staffordvilla.co.nz