The Man Behind Sea Esta

Sea Esta Camp & Lodge is where beach vibes meet bold colours and big character. Just two minutes from the sand, this ex-youth camp has been lovingly transformed by Peter and his daughter Brittney into a laid-back, Mexican-inspired escape. With room for anywhere from 2 to 114 guests across a range of fun, flexible accommodation, it’s ideal for retreats, reunions or simply escaping the everyday. Think bursts of bougainvillea, colourful corners, and character at every turn – Sea Esta is full of surprises, just like its owner.

Sea Esta Camp

“I love my treasures; the garden art, wagon wheels and especially the Morris Minor”

What inspired the idea behind Sea Esta Camp?

“I wanted to create a proper escape – a sanctuary. Somewhere that felt different to your everyday stay. A place where people could slow down, reconnect, and just breathe for a bit. It’s not fancy, but it’s full of character. That’s the kind of place I’d want to go, so I built it.”

How did the Mexican feel come about and how does it tie into the Waihī Beach vibe?

“The Mexican theme came from imagining a slower pace of life – afternoon siestas, villages bursting with colour, and that relaxed way of being. My daughter came up with the name “Sea Esta” as a play on ‘siesta’ and the sea, and it just stuck. We’re a beach town with a laid-back rhythm, so it felt like a good match.”

What kinds of groups do you enjoy hosting the most?

“One of the best groups I’ve had was a crew of Turkish dancers. They brought their culture, their energy, and I felt like I could’ve joined in right there with them. I like when people bring something a bit different – it gives the camp new life for a few days.”

What’s a memory from building Sea Esta that captures why you do what you do?

“Installing the stained glass windows. Some of them came from an old church, and the entrance doors were salvaged from The Jolly Farmer in Drury. I find pieces like that on Trade Me, then my wife and I hit the road to go pick them up. I love the hunt – and half the fun is the trip. Although sometimes she likes what I bring home too much and claims it before it ever gets to Sea Esta!

How do you want people to feel after a stay at Sea Esta?

“Like they’ve actually had a break. Not just another night away, but a proper change of pace. That’s why there are so many flowering trees and bright colours – so it feels cheerful, relaxed, and a little unexpected. It’s not polished, but it’s peaceful. A bit like stumbling into a hidden village with its own rhythm.

What do you love most about life in Waihi Beach?

“The bush walks, hands down. There’s something really special about walking through coastal forest and hearing the birds. I take my old dog Bruce out as much as I can. He’s a bit slow these days, but it’s one of the best parts of the day.”

PETER MCGREGOR

Sea Esta’s Owner

What’s one quirky design detail that sums up your style?

” The garden art, wagon wheels, and especially the Vanguard Mark 1. I wanted a rusty old American car as a garden feature, but they were all too expensive. Then I found this quirky old British number – it fits the place better anyway. It’s slowly returning to the ground. Just adds a bit of charm.

What’s one must-do experience you always recommend to someone visiting Waihi Beach for the first time?

“Walk to Orokawa – and if you’re up for it, carry on to Homunga. What I like about Waihī Beach is that it finishes at a headland, not just a long flat stretch like some other spots. Once you round that corner, it feels like you’ve found your own bit of coastal bush. You’ve got the track, the trees, and a good view out to Mayor Island – not just open ocean. Real peaceful. Can’t beat it.”