Two tiny accommodation pods sit together facing west. The sun filters through the misty clouds creating a hazy glow across the property as dusk approaches. It’s not often we get away, just the two of us. When we have an opportunity like this we treasure the escape.
Owners of ‘Escape West’, Dan and Grace bought the Waimauku lifestyle property in 2016 and live in the main house which sits on the hill above the pods. The [board and batten] pods were constructed on site and completed in 2021, welcoming their first guests in April of last year. There are neighbours near by, but you wouldn’t know it. Once you’re here, looking out over the Kanuka and cabbage trees, it feels private and remote. On the property you’ll find beehives, chickens, a greenhouse and various gardens, all producing a bounty which Grace and Dan are happy to share. This is truly the Good Life.
Each pod is a cosy 10 sqm. One for sleeping (1 queen bed) and one for lounging. Bifold glass doors on both pods open onto a generous deck that connects the two spaces. A bathroom block sits discretely behind the bedroom pod, housing a composting toilet, basin and shower. This unique stay comes into its own when the bifolds are opened out and weather allows for outdoor living. The west facing aspect is ideal for soaking in the afternoon rays. We feel the [unwind] roll in as birdsong accompanies Andrew’s ever-traveling guitar. We are staying just one night but our time here feels generous, somehow slowing down in the absence of busyness and routine.
Continuing with our love for west coast beaches (see the first Tiny Outlooks entry featuring Piha beach) , we head to Muriwai the next morning. (Just 10 mins drive). We’ve spent a fair few weekends at Muriwai beach and it never disappoints. While Andrew meets with a local friend for a surf, I explore the rocky coastline and follow the walkway up the cliffs overlooking Maukatia (Maori) Bay and the incredible sight that is the gannet colony. These intrepid sea birds fly to the southern and eastern shores of Australia at just 4 months old and return here after a few years for their annual nesting season. The Muriwai outcrops are also home to many keen fisherman and they can be seen braving the encroaching swell on the rock faces while sea spray rains.
Dan and Grace have created an ideal hideaway at the gateway to this northwest gem. It’s just 40 minutes drive from Auckland city but a world away.
Find ‘Escape West’ on Airbnb or contact Grace by email gnattrassnz@gmail.com