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The Gin Trap

Enjoy the free WiFi at this beachfront Pukehina vacation home

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3 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Interior
Smart TV, books, music library
Outdoor dining
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer

Explore the area

View in a map
Pukehina, Bay of Plenty
  • Place, Pukehina Beach
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Motunau Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Ororoa Reserve
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Rotorua (ROT-Rotorua Regional)
    ‪55 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Pukehina

On the beach.Your stay at this vacation home will put you steps from Motunau Park and a 5-minute walk from Bay of Plenty. Also, Pukehina Beach is within half a mile (1 km) and Midway Park is within 2 miles (3 km).
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What's nearby

  • Pukehina Beach - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Motunau Park - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Midway Park - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Palm Park - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Ororoa Reserve - 3 min drive - 1.1 miles

Getting around

  • Tauranga (TRG) - 39 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Maketu Beachside Cafe - ‬29 min drive
  • ‪Fush and Chups Paengaroa - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪The Hippy Pippi - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪The Seaside, Maketu - ‬29 min drive
  • ‪The Drunken Clam - ‬16 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

The Gin Trap

The Gin Trap is a charming 1960s Kiwi Bach, updated with modern comforts including unlimited Wi-Fi, a Smart TV with Free view, and a heat pump for year-round comfort. Just steps from the sand, this beachfront getaway offers direct access from the lawn to the ocean-perfect for swimming, relaxing, and soaking up the sun.
Ideal for family holidays or a couples' escape, the home sleeps up to six guests across three bedrooms. The layout includes a split-level design: the kitchen, dining and living areas are on the first level along with two bedrooms, each featuring a queen-size bed with storage drawers. Upstairs ( a short staircase of 5 steps) is the master bedroom, which offers a king-size bed and wardrobe along with the bathroom.
Simple furnishings complement the laid-back beach vibe, with a large deck and spacious lawn for outdoor lounging. After a day at the beach, rinse off in the hot outdoor shower. Enjoy easy meals with a fully equipped kitchen and BBQ on hand. On cooler nights, stay cozy inside with the heat pump and enjoy movie nights or board games from the collection provided.
A $150 cleaning fee covers all linen, including beach towels. For your morning coffee or a bite to eat, the local cafe "Montys" is conveniently located just across the road.

This home is not only a great base for the beach, but also for exploring near by. With just a 15min drive to Te Puke, 30mins to Mt Maunganui and Tauranga (via toll road) or 40mins to Rotorua and Whakatane. The BP station to refuel your boat is only 5 mins down the road.

*Cleaning fee $150 includes linen
*Please use beach access and stay off the Dunes
*Vaping and Smoking outside only
*Strictly NO parties!
*NB: There is 5 stairs to the King Room and Bathroom
*Dog Friendly. Max 2 $50 per stay
*Maximum of 6 people on this property at any one time
*All Beds new 2020

**Prices are seasonal. Change of nightly charge depends on the time period of the year

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Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach loungers

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Limited housekeeping

Location highlights

  • In the city center
  • Near the ocean
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Take out the trash
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 2 pets
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

How close is The Gin Trap to the airport?

This vacation home is 26.9 mi (39-min drive) away from the Tauranga (TRG) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does The Gin Trap have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.

How close is The Gin Trap to the beach?

This vacation home is on the beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does The Gin Trap offer free breakfast?

This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at The Gin Trap?

No, there is no casino at this vacation home.

What time is check-in at The Gin Trap?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

Is there free parking at The Gin Trap?

Free parking is not available at this vacation home.

Does The Gin Trap have a pool?

This vacation home does not have a pool.

Does The Gin Trap have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this vacation home.

How close is The Gin Trap to downtown Pukehina?

This vacation home is 3.8 mi away from Pukehina.

The Gin Trap Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 88 out of 94 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 94 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 94 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 94 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 94 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Willis E.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had the best time! This is such an awesome place and so well set up. The location is perfect and the house is really well presented with everything you need. The host was really friendly and attentive. We totally recommend and can't wait to come back.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Scott R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing place, wonderful hosts.If you want to go somewhere to completely unwind, The Gin Trap is the place to go.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Krista S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location, great communication, everything you need on hand. Would definitely stay again
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eric M., Atlanta, GA, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Really loved the access to the beach with this house. Great property with a large grass field with a gate opens to a path down to the beach. The bbq grill was very helpful for grilling in the evenings. House was a good size for a family of 4. Montys Restaurant across the street was also a great amenity. They host a fun hangout on weekend evenings and during XMas Eve.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah L.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Gin Trap was an absolute blessing for my family, the experience exceeded all of my expectations. Communication with the host was excellent, and the location was exactly the peaceful beachfront getaway that my family was hoping for. The premises provided all the necessary facilities and conveniences for living and enjoyment of the location. It has a great open-outdoor space on the beachside, and the accomodation is comfortable and being inside does not impede your view of the sea. The Gin Trap was more than capable of accomodating and entertaining our family and our visiting-relatives during our stay. We are grateful for the experience and look forward to staying here again in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Libby S., Rotorua

Liked: Cleanliness
Everything was very clean and co
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cherie R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Well equipped cozy Bach. Perfect location, stunning views and very handy having a fenced section. Would love to return in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kasey L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stunning spot, full day sun & a magical vibe. Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful property. We'll be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Victoria B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous property right on the beach with spectacular views. Clean and cosy with everything required for a great holiday. Our dogs enjoyed the huge front lawn and long walks on the beach. Being fully fenced was perfect.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Linda S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful location. Through the gate and you’re on the beach; further along to the estuary and Dotterel Reserve. A really comfortable home, good beds and furniture, great shower and a well equipped kitchen, if you don’t want to go to Monty’s over the road. Excellent information and communication from the hosts. And the dog comes too. Everything you need!
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sonja C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Brilliant spot. Wil definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anton A.

Liked: Cleanliness
It was our second stay at The Gin Trap, and the whole family enjoyed it, including our furry family member.The location is stunning, and even winter time is definitely worth it. Will definitely come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alison M.

Liked: Cleanliness
What a fantastic place, very clean and great communication with host. The backyard and beach are just beautiful. Very warm and dry and the added bonus was Monty’s bar and cafe across the road, great food and service. Would definitely stay again and in summer what a place! Highly recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alison M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Excellent mid-winter getaway

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Keino S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Little slice of paradise

Just loved our stay at the Gin Trap. Its a little spot of paradise we continue to return to. The house is warm, welcoming and we just love it. Even got the old record player working Thank you again for having us and allowing us to stay an extra bit longer
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Fiona F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great beachfront location.

Perfect Kiwi bach. Right on the beach and next to a park. Monty’s cafe across the road has great coffee and live music one of the evenings we were staying. Not too far to Whakatāne or Pāpāmoa. Recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Haylee W.

Liked: Cleanliness

RRR

If you are wanting to Relax, Rejuvenate and Reset, I can highly recommend The Gin Trap. Its eclectic interior and “bach-i-ness” is the best “tonic” for a quick va-cay! Everything is thought of to make your stay memorable, lived our weekend so much - cheers to Rachel and her team for an awesome getaway
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Meredith G., Marietta, GA

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely beach house

This house was just as described - perfect beach view and easy access. Host was great about communicating instructions and making sure we had all we needed. Located in a quiet beach community with a great little restaurant just across the road. I wish we could have stayed longer!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Byron J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beach front paradise!

We had an amazing stay. Located a stone's throw from the only cafe in Pukehina with beach access - not sure what more you could want for a Kiwi bach escape. Rach was really helpful and communicative as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mitra P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place

Great place and lots of towels!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mandy W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Will be back - amazing place

Stunning place, nothing but good to things to say!! 100% will be back to re visit!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Inyou C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect spot for a holiday

This small batch has everything you need for a holiday right in front of the beach. Definitely coming back again.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Aubrey M.

Liked: Cleanliness

This place is Gold!

This bach has everything you need - all the mod cons- and a stunning view to boot. The host is really responsive to emails and gave us a run down of all the best places to eat. Everything is clean and tidy, and in good condition. Beds are comfy and the shower has great water pressure. There's lots for kids to do and it's pet friendly. If the host will have us, we definitely will be going back :)
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Aleks R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay

Loved the location and cleanliness of the property. Would def recommend for future stays
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Jacques V.

Liked: Cleanliness

Xmas 2024

Great location with the beer garden across the road and views to stair at all day!!! It is an older kiwi batch with a bit of a dated look when you first arrive. The house is clean and the backyard great. The garage is filled with spiderwebs
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024