In 2008, Ocean View School closed for the last time with a roll of some 16 students. In April 2010, we became the lucky new custodians of this unique property, purchasing the old school on 5 acres. Michael, a cabinet maker, designer, builder, gained a large workshop, and myself, a space to offer accommodation, while we raised our young family. We opened for business as a Backpackers in December that year, a business I was experienced in and familiar with. We evolved to become ‘Apartment Style’ accommodation and fast forward 12 years, many happy memories have been made with our children, family and guests. The property is fully fenced, with a small herd of pet sheep and alpaca’s. In the office end of the school, the apartment is completely self contained and private for you, whilst the yard remains a shared space with our family, with asphalted areas for chalk art, scootering and an older tennis court. Abundant bird life thrives here - Tui, Korimako, Tauhou, Piwakawaka and Kereru. I hope to one day entice NZ’s native owl, the Ruru, to nest at our property. I have fond memories from my childhood, of listening to their late night calls, so know they add a magical touch.

Our family live on-site. We are a busy family with older teenagers and both Michael and I work jobs outside of the accommodation business. We ask all of our guests to make themselves at home and please excuse us if you do not see us during your stay. You will however likely meet our friendly family pets, Molly the black and white cat, and Aspen, our Golden Labrador Retriever.

We live at the top end of a quiet cul-de-sac, and a 5 minute walk to our pristine white sand beach, Ocean View. Our local fish and chip shop, Turning Tides, offer a delicious takeaway option ( closed Monday/Tuesday ) and 2 km south you will find the Brighton Convenience Store, Brighton Beach Cafe and our local Brighton Surf Life Saving Club at Brighton Beach. This is the only safe swimming option for everyone, unless you are a seasoned surfer / body boarder, with patrolled Surf Lifesaving from Labour Weekend until Easter Weekend. Please note, Ocean View beach is well known for strong currents and rips and it is not recommended or advised to swim here.