The Sands | Apartment in Onetangi, New Zealand

Summary:
With wide, uninterrupted views over Onetangi Bay and just steps from the sand, Apartment 26 is a bright, calm two-bedroom, two-bathroom home designed for relaxed beachfront living at the quieter end of the bay. This is a peaceful, comfortable base for couples or friends looking for easy days by the water. Not suitable for children.
The Space:
Apartment 26 brings together light, sea views, and simple, open-plan living. The full-width windows in the lounge frame the blue water and draw natural light through the main living space, keeping the apartment warm and inviting throughout the day.
The living, dining, and kitchen areas sit together in one connected space at the front of the home. The lounge has comfortable seating and a clear view toward the bay, making it an easy place to unwind after the beach. The dining area sits beside the windows, keeping meals relaxed and connected to the outlook. The kitchen includes full-size appliances, good bench space, and everything you need for simple cooking at home.
Both bedrooms are set away from the living area for privacy. The master bedroom has a queen bed and natural light from the angled window. The second bedroom includes a king bed that can be split to singles on request, offering flexibility for different groups. Two bathrooms, each with a tiled shower and modern vanity, make morning routines straightforward.
Shared gas BBQs are available in the landscaped common area at The Sands.
This apartment is not suitable for children.
Bed Configuration
Bedroom 1: Queen bed
Bedroom 2: King bed (can be split to singles on request)
Please note: Minimum stays: Mid December to mid January - 7 nights, holiday weekends - 3 nights and 2 nights at all other times. The gas BBQ's are shared with other guests at The Sands. Apartment 26 is not suitable for children.
Guest Access:
Guests have full access to the apartment and its private indoor and outdoor living spaces, as well as shared use of the BBQ area at The Sands. Parking is available onsite. Early check-ins and late check-outs may be possible on request, depending on bookings before and after your stay.
The Neighborhood:
Apartment 26 by Stay Waiheke is set at the quieter end of Onetangi Beach, with a flat walk along the sand to local cafés, lunch spots, and beachfront dining.
For breakfast or coffee, nearby options include Charlie Farley’s and the Beach Store Waiheke, both ideal for relaxed mornings by the beach. For lunch, Three Seven Two offers a popular seasonal menu, while The Heke provides a modern grill and brewery atmosphere just a few minutes’ drive away. Dinner choices include Ki Māha for refined beachfront dining and Casita Miro, known for Spanish-inspired shared plates overlooking the vines.
Close-by wineries include Tantalus Estate and Obsidian Vineyard, both offering tastings and relaxed vineyard dining.
Getting Around:
The nearest bus stop is on Fourth Avenue / The Strand.
Buses run from Onetangi, stopping close to all major wineries, including The Heke, then continue into Oneroa and on to the Matiatia passenger ferry.
Taxis, hire cars, scooters, and e-bikes are also available on the island. Parking is provided at the property.
Other Things to Note:
The Sands operates on rainwater tanks, so guests must be mindful of water use, especially during summer.
There is no smoking inside the apartment or on the balconies. External smoke detectors are fitted throughout The Sands, and any Fire Brigade call-out will incur a $5,000 fee charged to the guest. Smoking is permitted only in the designated picnic area.
Shared gas BBQs are available.
Minimum stays:
7 nights mid-December to mid-January
3 nights on holiday weekends
2 nights at all other times
Apartment 26 is not suitable for children.
Interaction with Guests:
The Stay Waiheke team is available 7 days a week from 8:30am to 5pm for general queries.
For life-threatening emergencies, guests must call 111 immediately.
For urgent after-hours property issues, an emergency number is provided in your arrival instructions.