XSPOT

21/11/2024

100 meters above and away from the water, XSPOT Cliff House is perfectly situated on top of the cliff for a visual feast.

The views over the Hauraki Gulf are breathtaking, and on a clear day Rangitoto island as well as the Whangarei Heads can be spotted, at a distance of around 80 kms. The curvature of the Earth becomes apparent.

And wth 270 degree views, it's easy to keep an eye on the wildlife all around. From this comfy lookout, we've spotted whales, dolphins, (manta) rays and big snapper in the moana and gannets, kaka and tui in the sky.

At the end of the day, as the Earth turns away from the sun, admire the sunset from the sofa or the sundeck. Then grab a blanket and snuggle up outside to see the first stars and planets pop up out of the blue.

As the sky slowly turns an inky black above your head, lean back and absorb the twinkles of thousands stars into your soul. ✨️

19/11/2024

Agreed!! Though you would stay at XSPOT, of course. 🤩

Mark our words: 2025 will be the year of crowd-free travel. Here are our picks for the world's 25 most exciting, lesser-visited destinations to plan a trip to right now.

13/11/2024

12/11/2024

November plants and blooms on Great Barrier Island are a treat! 😍

Fancy trampers smelling the flowers and counting the bees.

Do you love the lush red flowers of harakeke - and have you tried the nectar at the bottom of the blooms? No wonder tui and kaka use them as breakfast bars!

Sundew! The good size in the photo was growing on the tramline track. I didn't dare to get close as it looked hungry. 😋

The funky velvet flowers of the Rewarewa, both on the tree and close-up on a Rangiora leaf.

And the happy yellow star shape of the Korokia flower - a beautiful treat, crowning Hirakimata Mt Hobson.

For plant ID I use the Aotearoa species app (recommended though it can be hit and miss) and my friend Marion (not sharing, sorry). 😆

What's your fave?

04/11/2024

Looking for a place to stay at Medlands Beach, Aotea Great Barrier Island? XSPOT Beach House offers a fully self-contained haven, just a short stroll from the beach and with a view over the ocean.

I've added some reviews for your reference. Please reach out to me directly for enquiries or to secure your stay. A few sunny days 🌞 and starry nights ✨️ are still available, this summer and beyond.

20/10/2024

Comet alert!! Finally a bit of clear sky on the horizon. Taken 3 min. ago, on my smart phone. The comet is hard to make out with the naked eye. The brigh 'star' to the left and above is Venus.

20/10/2024

Some of the wonderful walking tracks on Aotea. We're happy to make itinerary recommendations as we know the island tracks well . 😊

17/10/2024

We were so excited to have Sarah and Nathan Chant from New Zealand Travel Tips (NZTT) stay at XSPOT Cliff house the last few days. We loved having these travel professionals around, sharing tips and stories of their adventures on beautiful Aotea Great Barrier Island . They got to see some of our amazing wildlife: Brydes whales, banded rails and cormorant (or shags), went kayaking from sunset motel, had dinner at the Currach Irish Pub & The Innkeeper's Lodge and stargazing with Good Heavens. Now they have 2 days in the middle of the island, based at Medlands and then two days at the top, based at Glenfern. Follow along with them to see what else they will find on their island adventures. Nga mihi nui! And... haere ra Nathan and Sarah! 🫶

17/09/2024

Escape to paradise at XSPOT Medlands Beach House, a brand new two-bedroom, two-bathroom sanctuary with magnificent views of Medlands Beach and the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the sun and shade decks, snuggle up with the small woodfire at night, and indulge in the modern amenities like washing machine and Starlink internet. Book your stay now and take advantage of the introductory rates for September and October!

www.xspot.co.nz

14/09/2024

Introducing XSPOT Medlands Beach House! 😍

This brand new two bedroom, two bathroom place on Aotea Great Barrier Island has fantastic views over Medlands Beach and the Pacific Ocean beyond.

It's a short five minutes walk to the beach and above the tsunami zone 😉 With a sun and a shade deck, there's always a good spot to sit outside.

There's a small woodfire to snuggle up to at night and a washing machine and Starlink internet ensure this modern and light beach house is suitable for longer stays.

Now available for you to book! Introductory rate for September and October! Contact us directly for more info or to book! Rates from $250 - $$500 per night depending on the season. Discounts for longer stays

Please share with friends who need a break. Or save for your future island holiday.

We are looking forward to hosting you in paradise. 🤗

www.xspot.co.nz

06/09/2024

Kathmandu chose Aotea Great Barrier Island to get out there. Why don't you? 😁😉

We're here to be your wonderful base when you are ready. 🤗

Little Black Book, 'Come find us. We’re out there.' – Kathmandu’s new evergreen brand campaign, explores the transformative power of nature, including the endorphin increasing experience of being in the wilderness

19/07/2024

12/07/2024

Escape to XSPOT Cliff House on Aotea Great Barrier Island for a serene winter getaway. Enjoy good availability and great prices in August and September, starting from $250 per night. Check availability and book on www.xspot.co.nz.

Please share with friends who need a holiday 🙏 🙂

11/06/2024

https://www.wildernessmag.co.nz/hot-pool-heaven/?ml_sub=2500364314972526349&ml_sub_hash=x4e0&utm_source=Newsletter%20-%20MailerLite&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=tramping_inspiration_shaun_barnett_dies_of_cancer&utm_term=2024-06-12

Fortunately, Aotea Great Barrier Island also has fabulous hot pools! And hiking to them is such an easy and awesome winter adventure. On the Barrier, the hot pools are only a 45 minutes reasonable flat hike from the road (yes, suitable for baby buggies), and yes, they reputably have healing powers, too.

I often track here with friends, no matter the weather, and most aches and pains are left behind. So we walk, talk and linger for an hour or so, with a hot drink and some snacks at hand.

At the Kaitoke Hot Pools, the water has a faint sulfur smell which you can leave on your skin, or wash off under a hot shower at your XSPOT accommodation. The wood stove will be at the ready for more mid-winter bliss, while you gaze out at the wonderful view or snuggle up with a book.

At XSPOT Cliff and XSPOT Beach House we have winter rates till the end of September. Obtain the best nightly rates for winter comfort by emailing me directly. 😉 [email protected]

There’s nothing more magical than the cold air numbing your face while the rest of your body is submerged in hot spring water.