Manakau, Kaikōura

Kanuka is the endemic form of vegetation on this property as parts of the farm revert back to native bush. The tree is a crucial coloniser of land recovering from deforestation, acting as a nursery plant as other species begin to regrow. Over the past 20 years over 200 acres of this property have been allowed to revert to bush, protecting waterways and hillsides from potential erosion, as well as hosting one of the largest populations of the South Island Robin found anywhere in New Zealand.

Walking out of the bush you will catch just a glimpse of your PurePod as you push on uphill. The walk is around 900 metres or 10-15 minutes. Please note, this PurePod is not suitable for those with mobility challenges due to the walk and the steps up to the PurePod.

To make your stroll as enjoyable as possible, we recommend bringing a small backpack to carry your essentials. Take your time, enjoy the fresh country air, and get ready for the serene escape that awaits at Manakau PurePod.

Please ensure you have suitable walking shoes and a backpack or small carry bag is best. This track is not suitable for large suitcases or wheelie bags.

Each PurePod has a gas cooktop, a small fridge, and all the cookware, plates, and cutlery you need. You’re welcome to bring your own food, or you can pre-order a delicious locally sourced dinner and breakfast hamper.

Totally private! Each PurePod is carefully placed to ensure you’re completely private, with no unwanted interruptions! You can truly relax and immerse yourself in nature without worrying about being seen.

Absolutely! Each PurePod has a fully plumbed piping hot shower and a flush toilet. Everything is designed to be eco-friendly while still giving you a comfortable experience.

We love dogs, but unfortunately, PurePods are not pet-friendly and Manakau PurePod is located on a working farm. This helps us protect stock and the surrounding wildlife and keep the experience pristine for future guests.

There are no standard 240V power plugs due to the off grid nature of the PurePod as these require a high level of power. However, if your device is USB chargeable there is one of these available on the control panel above the kitchen sink.

Yes! You can select dietary options when booking, or add details in the notes section if yours isn’t listed. Some special requests may have a small extra charge due to our remote locations. Please note that changes within 3 days are not possible.

Pack for comfort and adventure! Bring cosy layers, sturdy shoes, and a waterproof jacket. NZ weather can be unpredictable. Don’t forget any personal essentials, plus a good book, your knitting, painting supplies, or your favourite card games. And of course, bring your favourite beverage to sip while soaking in the views!

Not at all! The PurePod is designed with comfort in mind. The glass is double-glazed and insulated, and there’s both heating and ways to cool to keep the temperature just right, no matter the season.

There is limited mobile reception from the hill behind Manakau PurePod but it does depend on the weather and your cellular provider.

We understand you might need a specific date to celebrate a special occasion. If this date if booked out, please get in contact and we can put you on a waitlist or choose another location as we have a number nationwide.

There’s no reception—just pure freedom!

At time of booking you will be sent detailed instructions how you can discover and access your PurePod, you will need these.

Before your stay, we’ll email you to confirm your arrival time and vehicle details so the landowner knows when to expect you. That’s it—you’re all set!

Some locations benefit from a 4WD depending on the season, but if you don’t have one, we’ll provide alternative driving instructions. Most sites are accessible with an AWD, as the roads are gravel. If you are new to driving on gravel roads just take it slow and follow the wheel marks, avoid rapid acceleration.

No, sorry! PurePods are designed for two guests only. For safety reasons, we can’t allow a third person to stay, as it would block the exits.

Super easy!  Just leave by 12pm, and our team will take care of the rest. No need to check out anywhere, just head off when you’re ready.

Yes, all rates listed on the PurePods website are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). You may see other currencies on other websites and booking platforms so it pays to check which currency they are referring to.

All changes including any dietary requests must be made 3 days before arrival.

Each PurePod has communication facilities for emergencies. Instructions are available in each PurePod to ensure you can explain your location. Each PurePod also has a personal location beacon for added safety.

Yes, all PurePods are on private property and it is safe to leave your larger luggage in your vehicle in the designated car park. Just take a small backpack with you.

We have an on-call phone to help you with any issues you may encounter during your stay which is manned 7am – 9pm.

If you have an emergency such as a medical event, fire or other natural disaster we have a personal locator beacon and a direct line to the emergency services.

Make sure you have the Welcome Guide you were emailed at time of booking, this contains all the driving directions, gate codes and lock codes you need, make sure you download it before you arrive as phone reception can be limited.

If you have booked through an agent and you have not received or welcome guide please email us or your agent of details before you arrive.

See Kaikōura on a 3.5 hour adventure with unique 4X4 drive across a working farm, to the exhilarating ziplines above native forest canopies with incredible 360º views to Kaikōura and beyond.

Kaikōura is renowned for its great fishing grounds, which anyone can enjoy by boat with a local fishing guide. Experience scuba diving the undersea world for some of the best reef diving in the country.

Whale-watching, swimming with dolphins or kayaking are also great activities to do in Kaikōura. The views of the coast and mountains are incredible.

Kaikōura has a great variety of coastal walks and bikes. Enjoy the rugged landscape whilst spotting marine life. Read about the best Kaikōura walks here.