Shandelle Battersby spends a night in the bush at Waitakere Estate.
Location: This boutique hotel, part of the Heritage Hotel collection, has sat on its perch high in the Waitakere Ranges since the 1950s, first built as a homestead for the Nevill-Jackson family then later added to and developed into accommodation. These days, the hotel - which sits on 29ha of manicured grounds in among the rainforest and is still owned by the Nevill-Jacksons - has 21 rooms. You'll find it at 573 Scenic Drive, but be aware if you're arriving in the dark like we did, spotting it on the right-hand side of the road is a bit of a challenge. Or, you could arrive by helicopter, landing on the onsite heli-pad.
Check-in experience: Very efficient and friendly.
Room: Our digs, No 1, a corner room on the second storey, were right next to the in-house restaurant and spacious and comfortable, with a huge telly, stereo and, best of all, large Juliet balcony overlooking the pool. From the balcony, and the wide panoramic window, we had the most glorious view of the city and Rangitoto - pretty at night but spectacular at first light.
What's in the neighbourhood? Bethells and Piha beaches are nearby.
