The Perfect Getaway: A Secluded Holiday House In Dryden Bay, NZ

Getting to Dryden Bay

Who needs roads when you can get a ride with water taxis? There are several water taxi services from Picton that you can choose from such as Picton Water Taxi, Arrow Water Taxis and The Cougar Line. You can book in advance via their respective websites.

The boat trip to the bach is in itself an additional sightseeing trip through the sounds. Usually the water taxis will have extra deliveries to various bays, including dropping off and picking up other passengers. Not only will you get to see the different bays around the Sounds, but this method of transport might prove to be an interesting curiosity to some. In addition, on a nice day you can really enjoy the view and if you are lucky, you might encounter dolphins, seabirds and seals on your boat trip.

Upon your arrival at Dryden Bay, if Sue is not there to greet you herself, then you will be welcome by a friendly local.

The bach

Located on top of a hill, the bach has the best view in the whole bay. Nestled amongst native bushes, providing just enough privacy and shelter from the sun while not being too secluded at the same time.

The bach is the perfect size; comfortably accommodating a couple. As you reach the front of the bach, there is a small separate room outside with a washing machine. Enough laundry detergent for two washes is provided for each booking.

As you enter the bach, you shall be greeted with a sunny lounge and kitchen area. There is an electric stove, an oven, cutlery cupboard and a sink. The kitchen area is also equipped with pots and pans, cutleries and a kettle. The lounge is spacious and airy with a stunning view. It is arranged in a way that will make you feel comfortably at home. There is a couch and a coffee table for you to sip some warm tea or enjoy some snacks. A TV, a DVD player including a selection of DVDs will keep you entertained on a rainy day. If you want to learn more about possible activities around the area or enjoy a quick read, there are some magazines and brochures on the bookshelf under the TV. Behind the couch, there is a big fridge with freezer.

The shower and restroom are located to the right of the bach’s entrance. There is a sink and a cupboard next to the shower, a louvre window and a separate restroom. Since there is no ventilation, if you are taking a warm shower, it is a good idea to keep the louvre windows open. The water comes from a shared water tank so bear in mind that you do not take too long showers.

The carpeted bedroom is sure to keep you nice and warm on chilly nights. There is a queen-sized bed, a chest of drawers and a small closet. A chest at the foot of the bed contains extra pillows and duvets. Like the lounge area, there is also a sliding door that leads to the deck. A small heater is available in case the bach needs warming up. You can choose to bring your own bed linen or have them provided for you at 20 NZD (approx. 13 USD).

Although the bach already has everything you could ever ask for, it has a spacious deck to top it off. Accessible from the lounge and bedroom, you can enjoy the stunning view of the bay all day long. There is a barbecue and a table set with two chairs, ready for you to enjoy a nice meal and soak in some sun.

At night, the deck is also a perfect location for stargazing. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way with naked eyes as it expands across the bay.

Activities around Dryden Bay

The bay’s waters are well sheltered from strong currents and one way to enjoy the pristine waters is via kayaking. The bach has three kayaks, located in a shed near the beach. Life vests can be found inside the closet inside the bach’s bedroom. Early morning kayaking on calm waters is a very magical experience. You can watch the sunrise while gentle waves lap against the kayak.

For those who want to do some hiking, there is a scenic hiking path in the back of the bay. It does not require a high level of fitness and you will probably encounter a few of the native birds (if you haven’t spotted a few around the bach already). The hiking path forms a loop connecting Dryden Bay with another smaller private bay.

It is possible to do some fishing off the pier but for those who want to do some serious fishing, you should look into arranging for a fishing tour that is able to pick you up from the bay.

Last but not least, Dryden Bay is about 15 minutes by boat from the start of the popular Queen Charlotte track at Ship Cove. You can arrange with a water taxi company for a pick- up and drop off service if you wish to go on longer hikes.

Preparing yourself for the stay

Bring enough food with you for the duration of your stay. The only other way to get food is to organise a delivery with a supermarket in Picton and have the food delivered with a water taxi service at an additional cost.

Being surrounded by bushes and trees means that you are likely to encounter some birdlife. One in particular, the weka (a native bird about the same size as a chicken), is a common sight around the bach. Curious by nature, these birds might try to get inside the bach through any open doors. If one does get inside, just wait for it to leave. If you try to forcefully remove it, it might leave a big mess in its fright. Wekas are also known to steal anything that is shiny and colourful. It is advisable to keep your shoes indoor at night.

Despite all the wonderful things about the bay, Dryden Bay does have some pests such as possums, goats and deers. Make sure to not leave any bits and pieces of food anywhere along the hiking track or on the deck.

Dryden Bay is loved and cherished by the locals. Although most people don’t spend all year living at Dryden Bay, the bay is like their second home. Respect the locals and refrain from excessive noise and anti-social behaviours.

When leaving the bach, you have the option of either cleaning it yourself or pay an extra cleaning fee of 65 NZD (approx. 42 USD). If you decide to do the cleaning yourself, there is a vacuum cleaner, dust pan and brush, a broom as well as some cleaning products available and a cleaning cloth.

All kinds of rubbish must be taken back with you to Picton when you leave Dryden Bay. This includes recyclables and non-recyclables. Water taxi companies will allow you to take your rubbish with you on board, some will even help you dispose of them.