Discover historic waterfront accommodation on remote Arapaoa Island in the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand. Our boat-access-only heritage properties offer a unique kiwi bach experience combined with working pearl farm tours, an authentic island escape unlike any mainland Marlborough Sounds accommodation.
Access to Arapaoa Island is by water taxi or private boat, with a scenic 50-minute crossing from Picton. The Picton Mail Boat Cruise also services the island on Tuesday and Friday, or arrive by helicopter charter directly from Wellington for an unforgettable entrance to your island getaway.
Stay on 360 hectares of pristine Marlborough Sounds coastline at New Zealand's only accommodation on a working pāua pearl farm. The Radon family's eco-friendly island retreat combines outdoor recreation, marine conservation education, and authentic maritime heritage. Add a Pearl Farm Tour to your stay and witness the complete journey from pāua cultivation to finished jewellery, an experience available nowhere else in New Zealand.
Choose from three distinctive heritage properties, each carefully restored to honour Arapawa's whaling-era past.The Beach House Retreat sleeps 12 in a modernised 1952 beachfront property with private beach access, self-contained kitchen, and all-day sun. The Gunyah Retreat sleeps 13 in the original 1945 Perano whaling family retirement home, featuring sweeping Tory Channel views and authentic 1940s character. The School House Retreat sleeps 6 in the intimate restored schoolhouse where whalers' children once learned their lessons, complete with panoramic water views and cozy open-plan living.
Perfect for family holidays and reunions, romantic island getaways, weddings and private events, or anyone seeking genuine boat-access-only accommodation in the Marlborough Sounds. Book individual cottages for an intimate retreat, or reserve all three properties for exclusive island hire, accommodating up to 31 guests, for your own private island celebration in one of New Zealand's most spectacular coastal settings.
The Beach House retreat
Serene Waterfront Island Luxury, Marlborough Sounds
Discover a rare slice of coastal seclusion at Little Colonsay Beach House, a modernised waterfront retreat on remote Arapawa Island in the Marlborough Sounds. This exclusive boat-access-only accommodation offers the authentic Kiwi bach experience with a touch of maritime history, a private beach house so close to the water you'll fall asleep to the rhythm of waves and wake to salt air.
Built in 1952 for David Cormack, the engineer at Perano Whaling Station who designed the iconic oil storage tanks still standing today, this sun-drenched beach house captures the essence of New Zealand's coastal heritage. Located on a working pearl farm, it's the only Marlborough Sounds accommodation where you can witness sustainable pāua pearl cultivation while enjoying complete beachfront privacy.
Waterfront Paradise for Group & Families
This self-contained Marlborough Sounds beach house sleeps 12 guests across thoughtfully appointed spaces: two queen beds, one double bed, and six singles, plus a separate sleepout. All-day sun floods the property year-round, making it ideal for extended stays in any season.
The fully equipped kitchen features a large electric oven, gas stovetop, microwave, and dishwasher, though you may prefer cooking on the Weber BBQ while watching the sun set over Queen Charlotte Sound. Recent renovations include bi-fold and sliding doors that open the lounge onto a generous deck, blurring the line between indoor comfort and coastal beauty.
The purpose-built sleepout behind the main house offers a large shower designed for divers and their wetsuits, two modern toilets, and double hand basins, perfect for families, divers, or groups exploring the Sounds' pristine waters.
Your Private Island Escape
A short stroll takes you to the Beach, where you can swim, kayak, or simply sink your toes into the sand. Pet-friendly (with prior approval), this remote accommodation provides the seclusion sought by travellers looking to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with New Zealand's wild coastal landscape.
Accessible only by boat from Picton, The Beach House offers what mainland Marlborough Sounds accommodation cannot: true island remoteness combined with the unique experience of staying on a regenerative pearl farm committed to marine conservation.
Please note: Small tour groups occasionally visit our aquaculture facilities (typically around midday, lasting no more than two hours) and may need to use the sleepout facilities. We provide advance notice and ensure complete cleaning before and after any visits.
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Add a Pearl Tour to Your Stay:
- Foundation Tour: $50 per person (accommodation guests)
- Foundation Tour with Pāua Tasting: $80 per person (accommodation guests)
- Luxury Tour: $130 per person (accommodation guests)
The Beach House Retreat
Sleeps up to 12 guests
Sleeping arrangements:
- Bedroom 1: 1 queen bed
- Bedroom 2: 1 double bed
- Bedroom 3: 2 single beds
- Sleepout: 1 queen bed, 2 sets of bunk beds
Rates
Couples Discount (1 Oct–30 Nov & 1 Feb–31 May)
$250 per night for two adults
Summer Season (October–May inclusive)
$465 per night (up to 5 people)
$22 per night per additional person
Maximum 12 guests
Off Season (June–September inclusive)
$420 per night (up to 5 people)
$22 per night per additional person
Maximum 12 guests
Additional charges:
- Pets: $50 per night (prior approval required)
- Boat mooring: $30 per night (advise vessel type when booking; no overnight wharf tie-ups)
What's Included
- All linen, bedding, blankets and towels
- Cleaning products and equipment
- Dinghy use
- All prices include GST
Booking Details
- One night's payment confirms your booking
- Guests clean prior to departure, or optional cleaning service available ($180)
- Please note: There are no shops on Arapaoa Island; bring all supplies
- How to get here
For all accommodation options, you will need to bring your own supplies and clothing to the Island. There are no roads in or out nor shops at hand. You can order your groceries from the mainland. The two supermarkets we order through are:
Redwoodtown Woolworths
Woolworths in Blenheim, they only offer grocery delivery AMBIENT DRY GOOD. You will need to order before Wednesday to meet the Friday mailboat. Please double check with Beachcomber Cruises by calling them : 035736175 and make sure the order online it is to be delivered to Beachcomber Cruises.
Picton Fresh Choice
Your supplies come in on the mail boat, with a charge of 5% of the total order to your grocery invoice. Add an extra $5.00 charge if it is a public holiday. When ordering the wharf code is: 5638. Order by 12.00 noon the day before the mail boat delivery day
soundsorders@pictonfreshchoice.co.nz
There is no Wi-Fi in the houses but you are going to get Spark reception in all of the accommodations and on the farm.
The Gunyah Retreat
Exclusive Island Escape with Ocean View, Marlborough Sounds
Step into living history at Gunyah, the original 1945 Perano family homestead on remote Arapaoa Island. This beautifully preserved retirement home of whaling pioneers Joe and Patty Perano offers a rare glimpse into New Zealand's maritime heritage, a boat-access-only retreat where vintage character meets modern comfort on the edge of Tory Channel.
The name Gunyah, drawn from Australian Aboriginal language meaning "sheltered spot" or "sacred place," speaks to the homestead's protected position. Tucked away from the Marlborough Sounds' invigorating sea winds, this historic accommodation sits in quiet seclusion while commanding sweeping views of Cook Strait's perpetual ferry traffic between Picton and Wellington.
Historic Architecture with Sweeping Water Views
Refurbished to honour its 1940s origins, Gunyah sleeps up to 13 guests across thoughtfully appointed spaces that retain authentic period details. The main bedroom features an antique walnut suite with double bed dressed in feather duvets, plus a single bed, all opening to wide, panoramic views of Tory Channel and West Head. A second bedroom offers two sets of single bunks overlooking the manicured lawn and endless ocean.
Additional accommodation includes a separate sleepout with a queen bed, two sets of single bunks, a private shower and a toilet. This versatile space doubles as the laundry with a washing machine and dryer, and opens onto a spacious wooden deck that captures the afternoon sun, perfect for watching the Sounds transform through changing light.
Vintage Charm Meets Modern Convenience
This registered historic homestead retains the elegance of a bygone era while offering every contemporary comfort. The main bathroom features a deep, luxurious bath with a separate toilet. The fully equipped kitchen includes modern appliances, a microwave oven, a full fridge/freezer, a bread maker, and a Weber BBQ for cooking fresh Marlborough seafood while taking in the view.
The living area centers around a wood burner for those crisp Sounds evenings, complemented by a sound system for streaming your favourite music. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the ever-changing vista of inter-island ferries crossing Cook Strait, and locals still delight in waving from shore to passing travellers.
Island Heritage on a Working Pearl Farm
Gunyah offers what few Marlborough Sounds accommodations can: authentic connection to New Zealand's whaling history, combined with the unique experience of staying on an active regenerative pearl farm. Accessible only by boat from Picton, this historic homestead provides the perfect retreat for families, groups, or anyone seeking to experience island life as it was lived in mid-century New Zealand.
Pet-friendly with prior approval, Gunyah welcomes guests who appreciate the quiet dignity of heritage properties and the rare privilege of island seclusion.
A friendly wave from Arapaoa Island has delighted Cook Strait ferry passengers since the Perano era. Continue the tradition during your stay.
Add a Pearl Tour to Your Stay:
- Foundation Tour: $50 per person (accommodation guests)
- Foundation Tour with Pāua Tasting: $80 per person (accommodation guests)
- Luxury Tour: $130 per person (accommodation guests)
The Gunyah Retreat
Sleeps up to 13 guests
Sleeping arrangements:
- Bedroom 1: 1 double bed, 1 single bed
- Bedroom 2: 2 sets of bunk beds
- Sleepout: 1 queen bed, 2 sets of bunk beds
Rates
Couples Discount (1 Oct–30 Nov & 1 Feb–31 May)
$250 per night for two adults
Summer Season (October–May inclusive)
$405 per night (up to 5 people)
$22 per night per additional person
Maximum 13 guests
Off Season (June–September inclusive)
$350 per night (up to 5 people)
$22 per night per additional person
Maximum 13 guests
Additional charges:
- Pets: $50 per night (prior approval required)
- Boat mooring: $30 per night (advise vessel type when booking; no overnight wharf tie-ups)
What's Included
- All linen, bedding, blankets and towels
- Cleaning products and equipment
- Dinghy use
- All prices include GST
Booking Details
- One night's payment confirms your booking
- Guests clean prior to departure, or optional cleaning service available ($180)
- Please note: There are no shops on Arapaoa Island; bring all supplies
- How to get here
For all accommodation options, you will need to bring your own supplies and clothing to the Island. There are no roads in or out nor shops at hand. You can order your groceries from the mainland. The two supermarkets we order through are:
Redwoodtown Woolworths
Woolworths in Blenheim, they only offer grocery delivery AMBIENT DRY GOOD. You will need to order before Wednesday to meet the Friday mailboat. Please double check with Beachcomber Cruises by calling them : 035736175 and make sure the order online it is to be delivered to Beachcomber Cruises.
Picton Fresh Choice
Your supplies come in on the mail boat, with a charge of 5% of the total order to your grocery invoice. Add an extra $5.00 charge if it is a public holiday. When ordering the wharf code is: 5638. Order by 12.00 noon the day before the mail boat delivery day
soundsorders@pictonfreshchoice.co.nz
There is no Wi-Fi in the houses but you are going to get Spark reception in all of the accommodations and on the farm.
The School House Retreat
Historic Island with Scenic Views, Marlborough Sounds
Step into New Zealand's whaling heritage at The School House, the carefully restored 1940s schoolhouse where whalers' children once gathered for their lessons on remote Arapaoa Island. This authentic piece of maritime history has been thoughtfully renovated to welcome guests while preserving the character of its educational past, a cozy, self-contained retreat that sleeps six on the edge of Tory Channel.
Built during the peak of Perano Whaling Station operations, The School House stands as one of the few remaining schoolhouse accommodations in the Marlborough Sounds. Its transformation from classroom to comfortable lodging honours the island's rich social history, offering travellers a rare opportunity to experience life as it was lived by whaling families in mid-century New Zealand.
Intimate Island Accommodation with Panoramic Views
This compact, boat-access-only cottage sleeps up to six guests across thoughtfully arranged sleeping quarters: one set of double bunks and one set of single bunks, perfect for families or small groups seeking an authentic island experience. The open-plan living design maximises the intimate space while maintaining the building's original character and historical integrity.
The self-contained kitchen features gas hob, microwave, and Weber BBQ for preparing fresh Marlborough seafood while taking in panoramic water views. Freezer space is available for storing catch or provisions brought from the mainland. A log burner provides atmospheric heating for those crisp Sounds evenings, creating the warm, communal feeling that would have comforted students and teachers decades ago.
Authentic Heritage, Modern Comfort
To preserve the schoolhouse's architectural authenticity, School Cottage features separate shower and toilet facilities, a thoughtful design choice that maintains the building's historical footprint. The detached laundry includes both washing machine and dryer, ensuring modern convenience within this heritage setting.
The cottage's crowning feature is its private deck, positioned to capture sweeping panoramic views across Tory Channel. Here you can watch the perpetual parade of inter-island ferries, spot marine wildlife, or simply absorb the tranquillity of island life, much as young students might have during recess all those years ago.
Living History on a Working Pearl Farm
School Cottage offers what few Marlborough Sounds accommodations can: genuine connection to New Zealand's whaling era, combined with the unique experience of staying on an active regenerative pearl farm. Accessible only by boat from Picton, this historic schoolhouse provides an intimate island escape for those who value authentic heritage properties and the rare privilege of remote coastal living.
Pet-friendly with prior approval, School Cottage welcomes guests who appreciate the stories held within old walls and the quiet dignity of buildings that have served their community across generations.
Where whalers' children once learned their lessons, modern travellers now discover the timeless appeal of island seclusion.
Add a Pearl Tour to Your Stay:
- Foundation Tour: $50 per person (accommodation guests)
- Foundation Tour with Pāua Tasting: $80 per person (accommodation guests)
- Luxury Tour: $130 per person (accommodation guests)
School Cottage
Sleeps up to 6 guests
Sleeping arrangements in open-living:
- 1 set of double bunks
- 1 set of single bunks
Rates
Summer Season (October–May inclusive)
$260 per night (up to 6 people)
$22 per night per additional person (if extra camping required)
Off Season (June–September inclusive)
$235 per night (up to 6 people)
$22 per night per additional person (if extra camping required)
Additional charges:
- Pets: $50 per night (prior approval required)
- Boat mooring: $30 per night (advise vessel type when booking; no overnight wharf tie-ups)
What's Included
- All linen, bedding, blankets and towels
- Cleaning products and equipment
- Dinghy use
- All prices include GST
Booking Details
- One night's payment confirms your booking
- Guests clean prior to departure, or optional cleaning service available ($180)
- Please note: There are no shops on Arapaoa Island; bring all supplies
- How to get here
For all accommodation options, you will need to bring your own supplies and clothing to the Island. There are no roads in or out nor shops at hand. You can order your groceries from the mainland. The two supermarkets we order through are:
Redwoodtown Woolworths
Woolworths in Blenheim, they only offer grocery delivery AMBIENT DRY GOOD. You will need to order before Wednesday to meet the Friday mailboat. Please double check with Beachcomber Cruises by calling them : 035736175 and make sure the order online it is to be delivered to Beachcomber Cruises.
Picton Fresh Choice
Your supplies come in on the mail boat, with a charge of 5% of the total order to your grocery invoice. Add an extra $5.00 charge if it is a public holiday. When ordering the wharf code is: 5638. Order by 12.00 noon the day before the mail boat delivery day
soundsorders@pictonfreshchoice.co.nz
There is no Wi-Fi in the houses but you are going to get Spark reception in all of the accommodations and on the farm.
Exclusive Island Use
The ultimate private island experience for weddings, family reunions, and special events
Reserve the entire Arapawa Blue Pearls property for your group and enjoy complete island privacy. Perfect for milestone celebrations, corporate retreats, or multi-generational gatherings in one of New Zealand's most unique locations.
Total capacity: 31 guests across three historic properties
Included accommodations:
- Little Colonsay Beach House (sleeps 12)
- Gunyah Homestead (sleeps 13)
- School Cottage (sleeps 6)
Rates
Full Island Exclusive Use
$1,200 per night (accommodates up to 31 guests)
Additional charges:
- Boat mooring: $30 per night (advise vessel type when booking; no overnight wharf tie-ups)
What's Included
- All three accommodation properties with exclusive access
- All linen, bedding, blankets and towels
- Dinghy use
- All prices include GST
Booking Details
- One night's payment confirms your booking
- Please note: There are no shops on Arapaoa Island; bring all supplies for your group
- How to get here
Create unforgettable memories on your own private island in the Marlborough Sounds.
For all accommodation options, you will need to bring your own supplies and clothing to the Island. There are no roads in or out nor shops at hand. You can order your groceries from the mainland. The two supermarkets we order through are:
Redwoodtown Woolworths
Woolworths in Blenheim, they only offer grocery delivery AMBIENT DRY GOOD. You will need to order before Wednesday to meet the Friday mailboat. Please double check with Beachcomber Cruises by calling them : 035736175 and make sure the order online it is to be delivered to Beachcomber Cruises.
Picton Fresh Choice
Your supplies come in on the mail boat, with a charge of 5% of the total order to your grocery invoice. Add an extra $5.00 charge if it is a public holiday. When ordering the wharf code is: 5638. Order by 12.00 noon the day before the mail boat delivery day
soundsorders@pictonfreshchoice.co.nz
There is no Wi-Fi in the houses but you are going to get Spark reception in all of the accommodations and on the farm.