Shady Rest

You can't find a better host then Marc such a beautiful soul..and so so welcoming, he has created a real sanctuary here for his guests from the minute you arrive you feel welcomed and comfortable, the rooms are well equipped and comfortable, an amazing private bathroom, he also puts on a absolutely incredible breakfast with fresh fruits, yogurts, cereals,.and provide the best cooked breakfast to. A beautiful sitting area out the back and within the lodge, lots of amazing art to.. A definite must if your in Takaka, highly recommended. The decor of native wood interior and artwork make this a extremely beautiful place to stay. Also to add Marc The Owner/Host also offers Woofing Jobs for people which he will provide you with accommodation and food in return for 4 hours work a day. Which is absolutely incredible.

Urban K. · January 2026 · via Google

We stayed here for three nights and it was awesome. However, not as luxurious/upscale as we thought it would be, based on the photos on the website. The Shady Rest has aged quite a lot and is not necessarily beautiful in a common way, but it has a lot of character. Mark is a wonderful host and without him it would be a way less charismatic experience. It feels a bit like living with him in his house that he generously opens for you. During breakfast you will sit with other guests at a large table, which we enjoyed a lot. The other guests were very nice people while we were there, so it was a lot of fun. In the evening there is a similarly large table outside where people meet and chat. These „community“ spaces really add to the Charme, from my point of view. One night Mark hosted a little barbecue for those who were present. A very welcome surprise. If you like this very personal way of staying, this is the place for you.

J R. · December 2025 · via Google

The best place to stay in Tākaka without question. Where to start… Mark (owner) has put 25 years of hard work and love into this place. And it shows. Never have we stayed in such a colourful and playful spot. From the best eggs and bacon breakfast in the morning, BBQ in the afternoon, to rope swinging over eels in the creek at the bottom of the garden, to having a jet powered bath in the evening (wish i pictured the size of the bath. Its HUGE) Mark you are a rare & fantastic person. Thank you for having us. We will remember our stay for a very very long time.

Rohaan · December 2025 · via Google

Such a beautiful house! Janice is wonderful and so friendly. We had a great night here, quiet, cozy and with a delicious breakfast next morning. Lots of birds and a small nice creek behind the house with a few eels. Definitely recommend to anyone who goes into the golden bay and to see the famous rock.

grace18 · April 2025 · via Google

We loved our stay at Shady Rest in Takaka. The B&B is peaceful and well appointed with comfortable homey rooms. Mark is an excellent host who cooked up killer scrambled eggs on toast each morning on demand. There is a TON to do around the Abel Tasman area and we wished that we stayed longer than just our 2 nights. Would highly recommend.

Dale Z. · March 2025 · via Google