Emily Bay on Norfolk Island.
THE LOCATION
Deep in the green heart of this roughly circular island,which is like a piece of regional Australia halfway between New Caledonia and New Zealand,lies Auwas Island Holiday Home. It's a five-minute scenic drive from Norfolk Island's main street,along narrow country roads following the contours of the hills,past Norfolk pine trees and grazing cows,and situated on a hill with views south to Phillip Island six kilometres offshore.
A room at Auwas Island Holiday Home.
THE SPACE
"Auwas"means"our"in Norf'k,a language spoken only on Norfolk Island;the idea is to make this feel like your very own holiday house. A modest bungalow from the outside,inside it's all contemporary island chic with tropical prints,Balinese furniture and dark timber floors. There's everything a holidaying family or group of friends could need or want,from beach towels and board games to a multimedia entertainment system and Nespresso machine. There's also a cosy nook for reading,with a combustion stove for winter nights,and a backyard big enough for games of touch footy. Wi-Fi is available,for $5 per hour.
THE ROOM
An aerial view of Phillip Island,near Norfolk Island.
It's just me rattling around in this three-bedroom house. I could have slept in a different room each night like Goldilocks,but settle on one of the two corner bedrooms with queen bed,timber blinds and a louvre-doored wardrobe. It's country-quiet at night,which takes a little getting used to. The shared main bathroom (one of two) has an enormous freestanding bath,slate feature wall,rainwater shower and Natural Earth toiletries,a nice touch in a self-catering rental.