Sandy Bay Cabins in the Far North

Sandy Bay Cabins

The east coast bays and coves of Northland are bays of white sand, gentle waves and few people. Sandy Bay Cabins are on rolling farmland, not quite on the coast but walking distance if you wish. The encampment is at present made up of two off the grid cabins, and a larger cabin set a little way apart, where there is not just electricity but also cooking facilities, a fridge and a shower.

The cabins are an act in progress. The area has been developed with a view to expansion and the two smaller cabins - as cute and appealing as you could wish,- are side by side on a grassy plain, where easily there might be five or six cabins at next glance. These cabins face a small stand of native forest where the tall trees predominate but the forest floor is easily accessible with a small stream running through the forest valley.


The larger cabin is timber lined, with a porch to sit on and take in the views, the forest, the sunset, or the well looked after garden out front.

The encampment lends itself to family entertainment. The pizza oven is set alongside a man-made pond. There is a waterside , canoes for a short lap around the pond, and plenty of leaning tables for a family meal gathered around, or a late night gathering.

Outside the main cabin there is a fire bowl ready and waiting. This provides a great gathering place as dusk falls. From here it is just a short distance down the path to the shower and bath - where you can celebrate the great outdoors with views out across the rolling hills yet still private. With hot water at your fingertips for the bath and shower, it could not be easier to  take a quick shower while enjoying the forest surrounds.

This is a a great spot to relax in.  With intermittent cellphone reception it is time to relax, turn off your connections to the outside world and enjoy some time with friends and family in the great outdoors.

Gypsy Camping Wairarapa

Gypsy River Camping

Gypsy River Camping in the Wairarapa is so unexpected. This is a camp consisting of  hand made gypsy caravans - three of them in all -  plus a cook house, in a characteristic gypsy style semicircle grouped around a campfire. This is the perfect gypsy get-away. These charming little caravans of many colours are in the back of a field, not so far from a pleasant river, surrounded by tall willows and verdant pastures.

The gypsy camp is charming. There are three sleeping caravans plus a cookhouse and bathroom. One of the vans even has its own pot belly stove and electricity. The others are for you to enjoy the candlelight -  and the campfire light if the weather is kind. 

The kitchen has everything you could need including some delightful surprises: - Was that three tins of fresh baking ready to be devoured?? More than I might achieve in a year or three. Outside there is the barbecue all gassed up and ready to use-  and inside you will find every condiment and utensil you might possibly require to cook the perfect gypsy meal. What's more there are games for the bored, and for breakfast the fun of making toast over a retro frame on the gas stove. All your breakfast needs are supplied.

The bedroom caravan with the bunks is full of colour, not to mention luminescent stars in the deep blue internal sky.

Outside there is space to romp; space for games . What's more there is a flying fox and a giant swing to make the most of, as well as canoes if the river is playing ball. The outside bath is tucked into a private dell surrounded by bushes and flaxes. Your host will light the fire for you and show you the tricks of achieving a perfect bath. Here is a clue. Do not keep stoking the fire too close to bath time....

 Once the summer season has settled, the fairy lights come out to add an even more magical touch.

There is nothing more perfect than a bath under the stars and a campfire on a balmy night.  The gypsy camp is near to Masterton but it might as well be a million miles away.

It is a wonderful way to spend some time.This is the kind of place that needs a repeat performance.

http://www.unusualstays.com/

http://italyoffthebeatentrack.blogspot.co.nz/2016/01/italy-off-beaten-track.html
https://www.facebook.com/Stay-Somewhere-Strange-273777766054597/

The Funky Bunker

The Funky Bunker

Pippy McCurdy

http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://italyoffthebeatentrack.blogspot.co.nz/2016/01/italy-off-beaten-track.html


Once it was high up a mountain - part of a film-set for an action movie set in the Himalayas. It may have only been an ammunition store but this bunker made it to the silver screen. You may have seen it - the movie was called Vertical Limits. Now you can stay in the bunker and maybe even live a little movie history for yourself.

 

Somewhere between a container and a bunk house, there is something about the Funky Bunker. It has angled down corners, - to let the snow slide off of course. You will know as soon as you set eyes on it,  that here is something unusual. This is not your usual tourist town accommodation.

 The bunker and the caravan sit together across a timbered deck. Is it a summer spot or a winter spot? Even though our visit was on a chilly late autumn night, something tells me it would work just as well either way. The outside deck, the deck chairs, the half fire-drum ready to go  -  well you can just imagine the sparks floating up over the big private section into the clear night sky.

But on a cold crisp night such as the one we encountered, the bunker turns into a snug nest with warm plywood walls and a pot belly stove pumping out the heat. Lots of bedding options - we never left the bunker for the sleeping caravan. It was a night of story telling and yarns. My how the time spins by...


The Funky Bunker is in Glenorchy by beautiful Lake Wakatipu. There are some great spots in Glenorchy for a meal or a beer but we couldn't tear ourselves away from the Funky Bunker. It was unpretentious, intimate and exceptionally likable.

The Silos at Little River

The Silos - Little River

Pippy McCurdy

http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://italyoffthebeatentrack.blogspot.co.nz/2016/01/italy-off-beaten-track.html


On tall pod legs with a hint of dalek in their demeanour, the Silos at Little River stand clustered together on the side of the road in all their eye-catching glory.

On a grey day they stand out in their uniqueness. On a clear day they truly gleam. Row upon row of corrugation catch the sun in curious ways. Ripples of reflection and colour from the surrounding countryside bounce off the towers. Cars speed by then brakes go on; cars back up; passers-by step out; cellphones snap photos. Some even wander along the board-walks. Only the fortunate few who have booked a pod will see inside.

The interiors of the Silos at Little River are the pinnacle of bespoke design. Every detail has been investigated, considered, and usually reinvented. New and original design has provided the solution. Industrial objects have been taken, adapted and given fascinating new purpose.  Light switches, kitchen benches, bicycle stackers, window openers,  toilet fixtures, folded metal staircases, bathroom fittings   - all absolutely original and unique. When you are paving the way, off the shelf does not exist as an option.


In a setting of silver corrugation and ply, the colours used are strikingly pure. The subtle use of coloured lighting adds one more layer of surprise as patches of reds, blues, and purples bounce around the interior walls.

 The bedroom is unforgettable with its overhead opening skylight, its beautiful linen, its spacious bed. The ensuite is the piece de resistance as glass meets stainless steel meets corrugated metal. The end result is breathtaking.

These silos are an ultra-modern state of the art excellence. You will never stay anywhere like this. Anywhere.

Wairua Lodge - Whitianga on the Coromandel

The Hidden River Valley

Pippy McCurdy

http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.easterneuropetravelguide.net

Wairua Lodge is all about nature and beautiful outdoor spaces. It is comfortable accommodation folded into bush covered hills, with a river valley winding through the forest. There is a  gentle river widening out into tempting pools for swimming and playing. This place is simple, lush, green, eco- aware,  and welcoming. It celebrates the outdoors in all its spaces and is quite simply a regenerative and appealing place to be. 

As soon as you realise that here you can enjoy a starlight spa and also a bush bath you will know that you are in for something special;  add to this a fire pit where you can gather of an evening, Fabulous. There is also a semi-outdoor kitchen which is almost a camp kitchen, yet still has all the elements of a more sophisticated setup. Sit outside when the weather is kind, or sit under cover but without walls to separate you from that rich scenery all around.

The starlight spa is a soothing private space where you will not be disturbed and the only sounds are the sounds of the night. The tree-tops bathhouse is a decadent retreat filled with music and candles, opening out over the forest and river valley below.

The chance to gather around the fire pit and enjoy good company and maybe a little music is something that is not all that common in NZ unless you are camping far from civilization and creature comforts. At Wairua Lodge this is a pleasure you can indulge in and enjoy. Flickering flames, frogs croaking, chirping crickets,  a morepork or two, - maybe even a kiwi. What a place.

Akaroa Luxury Lodge

Birdsong Lodge 

(previously Akaroa Luxury Lodge)

Pippy McCurdy: 
 http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/

On the road to Akaroa take a right hand turn at Little River and wind your way up a road that is just long enough to make you think you must be lost. At about this time you will probably come across the entrance to Birdsong Lodge. Tucked out of site down a driveway, the Lodge is surrounded by tall trees close to a rushing mountain stream. 

More of a well appointed home than a holiday house Birdsong Lodge is charming, and in some parts luxurious. The marble bathroom is impressive,  as is the well kitted out kitchen. However it is the roaring fire in the enormous fire place which makes that first impression the most memorable. With its mirrors, its candelabra  and its leadlight sidelights, on a cold winters evening it is just the welcome you might hope for. 

Pull up the leather arm chairs, settle in wtih the basket of goodies provided,  open the wine ... Not surprising if you forget all about those noble plans to cook a meal.

The snow from the day before had just cleared that afternoon - but should it have chosen to snow again that night ... well being snowed in for a day or two might not have been such a chore!

But there is more to Birdsong Lodge than just a  little bit of luxury, because Birdsong Lodge has a Tree House! - Or more accurately, it has a Tree Stump House. The House is essentially additional accommodation to the main lodge with its two bunk beds and very little else, but it is oh so cute! 

Perched on a large stump like you have stumbled onto the set of the movie 'Up', this is one of only two Tree Houses that I am aware of in New Zealand which you can rent for a night. 

So it might not be actually suspended up in the tree tops, as are some of its more international counterparts, but one might wonder whether a truly suspended tree house is really such a good idea in our land of howling winds and grim winters. The higgledy piggledy steps leading up to the Tree House are in keeping, but they are certainly a challenge. But its worth it. 

Unique and unexpected, this little touch of whimsy makes Birdsong Lodge more than just another fancy stopover. This is definitely worth a visit.

Websites: http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/

La Crique Greytown

La Crique - Greytown

Pippy McCurdy
 http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/


Greytown is a shining example of how to make your town into something special! Interestingly enough (and this is not the only time this has happened) it is because Greytown was once passed over that its character and architecture has survived -  (think Melbourne). Early in its history it suffered the indignity of being by-passed by the rail service - an initial body-blow to its growth.  Once also it  was to be the fruit-bowl of the Wairarapa -  but not to be.

But did it languish and become that place where everyone passes  through but no-one wants to stop? No. Instead it has become the premium destination of the Wairarapa. Now it is a town of niche market charm built on a base of wine and olives.  How did this happen?

Possibly it was due to the vision of a positive thinking mayor. It is not so long ago that John Garrity  took the approach that he may not have the funds to assist new businesses and entrepreneurs but he was not going to stand in their way. The first outdoor seated cafe was laughed at! But its owner pressed on and hurrah! The council did not create obstacles to beat down this visionary owner and force him to give up his vision. Let's face it - this has happened in so many other towns in New Zealand.

So now Greytown thrives. Small creative businesses are attracted to this town and as a result it has become a charming and popular destination. In partnership with an appealing town, Wairarapa excels at creating events which bring people to the area.

Martinborough Fair and Wings Over Wairarapa are just twosuch events. And now there is a third. Eclipse Stonehenge (picture above) was a recent outstanding success and must surely become a regular event.










La De Dah is an overnight stay in Greytown which has picked up on the French connections of the area. Located in a period villa it has charm, style and eclectic appeal. La Crique is a  single bedroom apartment  - one of twooptions at La De Dah.








 With its tiled floors, decorative furnishings and French country charm it is every bit 'un maison de la campagne'. Delicious provisions for a light breakfast come as part of the package. Reasonably priced and and absolutely charming, this is such a pleasant alternative to a standard motel!

The Ghosts of the Vulcan Hotel

A Visit to St Bathans

Pippy McCurdy: 
 http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/

Far off the beaten track in the heart of Central Otago is a small cluster of buildings. This is St Bathans, - once a thriving town of thousands, bustling with miners hungry for gold.The Vulcan Hotel is the only hotel which remains in this isolated spot, yet the locals come from far around to drink at the bar, and the visitors and toursits join them, -  but probably struggle to keep up because this is Speights country.

Not many people search for gold here any more, even though there are more than a few who believe there is still gold to be found. So if the tourists do not come for gold, do they come for the strange ethereal scenery; the beauty of the Blue Lake; the ever-changing trees that stand like bare spectres in the midst of winter, or rustle in the warm winds of autumn. Well no. Mostly they come to see the ghost.

Her name was Rose. She was murdered for her gold they believe, - gold she had earned as a lady of the night, - and there were many willing to pay. She was killed in the front bedroom of the Vulcan - one of 13 public houses in St Bathans at the time. 

You can still rent her room to this day and be a guest of the Vulcan. Maybe you will encounter one of the hotel's ghosts - because word is that there are not one but three ghosts, who still wander restlessly through the quiet corridors.

I did not encounter Rosie nor her entourage. In fact I spent a very pleasant evening in the company of the patrons and the very hospitable staff. The Vulcan is a friendly, pleasant, rather nice place to stay - a place which still retains a sense of presence and style belonging  to its nineteenth century past.

No ghosts chose to reveal themselves to me. But I believe they were silently present. St Bathans - not a ghost town  - but somehow a slightly mysterious place, all the same. A part of me wondered if this was not in fact, some parallel universe that I had been fortunate enough to stumble upon.

Websites: http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/

The Stables at Otaki

The Stables at Otaki

Pippy McCurdy: 
 http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/

An overnight stay in the Stables tucked into the back roads of Otaki is a step back in time.

As you enter from the road and begin to wind through the property the layers of the present gradually drop by the wayside. First the humdrum necessities of running a day to day business surround you; - the nursery, the packing shed, the  horticultural implements:  Then it's the house, the trampoline , the garden, the barbeque;  then around a corner, down a small lane, the trees creep closer overhead, the sunlight becomes dappled as it filters down. – You've reached your destination.

Tucked into this grove of ancient elms is The Stable; decorative, quaint, semi-ornate. This is a gingerbread house with a purpose; a groomsman’s cottage shared at one time by man and his animals.

The high pitched roof is decked in slate; the half stable doors remain. Step inside to rich warm timbers and country decor. The light fittings are brass. The pot belly stove dominates the kitchen.

The second bedroom downstairs is a cosy little room, with a Goldilocks bed tucked into the corner; -  simple and snug. Take the winding staircase up to the second floor and step in to a long and spacious attic room, tastefully furnished with a small Juliette balcony looking out over the forest of trees . The bed is enticing; the ground is carpeted below with autumn leaves of a million hues. The picnic table sits waiting for company; the swing hangs from the overhead branches.  Spring bulbs surround the edges of the copse waiting for the first heat of the new season to show their true colours.

Bring your own food with you – if you are hungry you will struggle to find anything other than takeaways in the nearby town after 5pm.  For those of you who hanker after your nightly dose of TV this is not for you, – however there is an interesting choice of DVDs supplied.

Nevertheless if you are looking for a simpler world and a peaceful old-English retreat set in a clearing in the forest, this may be the one for you.

Websites: http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/

Ohinemuri Estate Karangahake Gorge

Ohinemuri Estate

The Karagahake Gorge is a rather spectacular destination – especially after the flat regularity of the Hauraki Plains. Replace slow flowing canals with shallow white water rapids: replace vast expanses of farmland with steep hills bordering on mountains and with native bush clinging where it can. Add in several  picturesque swing bridges and the historic remains of old gold mining works, and you have a fascinating area in which to spend some time.

Ohinemuri Winery has found a home in amongst these hills. It has taken over a cluster of 1930s farm buildings and converted these to serve its purposes as a successful business venture. Ohinemuri provides both a restaurant and accommodation. It provides Ohinemuri wines to the tables, and also offers sales on line  -  and they are very good! Grapes are grown under contract to Ohinemuri in a number of locations throughout New Zealand –  thus allowing  the appropriate varietal to be sourced from its ideal location prior to pressing.

The restaurant makes use of a building which began life as the stable; the accommodation is in the converted hayloft above. On one wall a fascinating picture of the buildings as they once were, provides an interesting reference to the original use.

The buildings themselves were established in a European chalet style by their initial owner who came in fact, from Latvia. With their 45 degree pitched roofs snowfall is not going to be a problem. Clustered in a  and providing shelter to a sunny outdoor courtyard for diners, the buildings make an appealing setting within which  the outstanding food can be enjoyed.

The restaurant closes at 5 pm but the friendly staff will provide a platter for your room if requested, and with the restaurant opening again at 10 am there is ample opportunity to sample the cuisine. 

The strength of Ohinemuri winery is in fact in its food, its wines, and its friendly and hospitable staff. The accommodation itself needs to be updated to  match Ohinemuri’s excellence in other respects,  if the overall high standard is to be maintained.

Websites: http://www.unusualstays.com/

http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/