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Create Extra Sparkle for Sustainable Travel

In an era when responsible travel is front of mind, PurePods stands as a beacon of eco-friendly accommodation. 

Founded by Grant Ryan, the idea came from his childhood experiences of growing up on a Southland farm and being spellbound by remote New Zealand landscapes. He felt more people needed to see and feel the wonders mother nature had to offer. It is more than just being in the area and staying in a hotel, tent or cabin. It is about being surrounded by nature, nestled in comfort, immersed in the landscape and not shutting it all out when you close the door.

Founder Grant Ryan ultimately believes you should “Do something that brings you joy. Create something that gives an experience and makes you feel good in the process”.

Join us to explore our ethos, practices, and values of this unforgettable sustainable tourism experience.

Embracing Sustainable Practices

At PurePods, sustainability is at the core of everything we do and has been from day one. From the design and construction of our unique glass cabins to the daily operations and beyond, we prioritise minimising our ecological footprint while maximising the guest experience.

Thoughtful Design for Integration

The PurePods experience starts with our carefully designed glass cabins. Our glass eco-cabins blend seamlessly with the environment, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying a luxurious setting. The electrical systems are cleverly designed to use the smallest amount of energy, the heating system ensures winter warmth, the wastewater system uses a patented biological filtration technology to provide an energy-efficient treatment, and cleaned water is pumped out to provide irrigation of the native vegetation.

Eco-Friendly Products for Cleaning

We are committed to using only eco-friendly products at the PurePods. That’s why we carefully select biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning solutions, and we never use single-use plastics. By using these eco-friendly products, we ensure the cleanliness of our PurePods does not come at the expense of the environment.

Off-Grid Energy

PurePods are off-grid, relying on renewable energy sources. Solar panels provide clean electricity for lighting, heating, and USB charging. Despite their small size when it comes to energy smarts, operational support and reliability they pack a big punch.

Respecting The Natural Environment

Our PurePods are made for stargazing, and some of them are located in areas with a Bortle Class rating of 1. The Bortle rating tells you how bright and amazing the night sky is at a certain spot. Level 1 means it’s the best possible dark sky. The lighting system we use in our PurePods is specifically planned to minimise light spill to maximise uninterrupted views of the star-studded night sky.

Recycling

PurePods is dedicated to reducing waste and promoting recycling. We provide guests with clearly labelled rubbish bins, ensuring proper separation of recyclables, organic waste, and general waste.

Nature Conservation

Conservation and reclamation of the natural environment is close to the heart of PurePods. We partner with landowners who are committed to sustainability, and through the commercial returns from a PurePod they are able to expand their conservation activities through the extension of nature covenants and the reduction of stock grazing in sensitive areas.

The Cacophony Project

The Cacophony Project is focused on helping to make New Zealand predator-free and bring back “The Cacophony” of bird song. The Cacophony Project believes with technology it is absolutely possible to make eradication of predators in New Zealand dramatically more efficient. 

At PurePods we’re passionate about sharing the best possible experience of Pure New Zealand and we’re committed to keeping New Zealand pure. Through thoughtful design, the use of eco-friendly cleaning products, eco-friendly practices, and a commitment to conservation, PurePods offers an immersive and sustainable experience.

The Meaning of the Stars

On June 24 Aotearoa will celebrate its newest public holiday, Matariki, the Māori New Year. As was tradition, the stars guided Māori ancestors as they looked to the skies for remembrance and reflection, guidance, celebration and connection, which sustained many aspects of their lives.

It’s an acknowledgement of Mātauranga Māori (ancestral knowledge and wisdom) and traditions that were on the brink of being lost forever. It’s also an opportunity to better understand what Matariki has meant to generations past and what it means for those to come.

The star cluster is well known worldwide and can be seen around the globe at different times of the year. It is one of the brightest clusters in the sky, containing hundreds of member stars.

Matariki has different names around the world. In English, it is called by its ancient Greek name, Pleiades or the Seven Sisters. In Hawaiian it is Makali’i, ‘eyes of royalty’, and in Japan it is Subaru, meaning ‘gathered together’.

What it means for Māori

A guide for living off the land

Māori tūpuna (ancestors) would look to Matariki for help with their harvesting. When Matariki disappeared in April/May, it was time to preserve crops for the winter season. When it re-appeared in June/July, tūpuna would read the stars to predict the upcoming season – clear and bright stars promised a warm and abundant winter while hazy stars warned of a bleak winter.

A time for remembrance

It is a time to remember those who have passed, celebrate new life, and plan for the future. 

A time to connect, be grateful, and celebrate the present 

It’s a time to spend with whānau (family) and friends – to enjoy kai (food), waiata (song), tākaro (games) and haka.

According to one Māori myth, the cluster represents a whaea or mother – Matariki – and her six daughters Tupuānuku, Tupuārangi, Waipunarangi, Waitī, Waitā and Ururangi.

Learn more about each of the 9 stars below.

Each year the date will change as Māori follow the maramataka (lunar calendar), not the European calendar, so too with the public holiday.

Best time to see Matariki 

The best time to see the constellation is early morning, just before dawn and given the sun is currently not rising until near on 8am, whilst it may feel like the middle of the night, you will still have been able to have a good sleep beforehand. (This is where PurePods come into their own, you don’t even have to get out of bed, just open your eyes and look towards the heavens to take in the majestic skies).

New Zealand has many wonderful locations to best view the stars, from Rakiura (Stewart island) in the deep south, to Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga) in the far north. 

Plan to escape the city lights and seek out a secluded spot to minimise any light pollution, wrap up warm and let the wonder unfold.

What to look for

9 of the brightest stars nearest to Earth are visible with the naked eye. So sit back and take it all in, or have your telescope handy to fall deeper into the hundreds of stars that make up the constellation.

How to find them

1. Look to the northeast horizon before sunrise
2. Search for the distinct line of stars that forms Tautoru, or Orion’s belt 
3. Keep moving your gaze north of these three stars until you see a cluster of tiny stars that are roughly as wide as Tautoru is long. 

These are the Matariki stars.

See below for the names and meanings of each of the 9 starts of Matariki and click here for a short video or a fuller explanation thanks to Te Wānanga o Aotearoa 

The 9 stars explained

Matariki

The name Matariki refers to both the star cluster as a whole and a specific star, which signifies reflection, hope, our connection to the environment and the health and wellbeing of people. 

Pōhutukawa

Pōhutukawa is the star that serves as a reminder of those who have passed on, encouraging us to take the time to remember them and acknowledge their impact on our lives. 

Tupuānuku

Tupuānuku (“tupu” means ‘to grow’ and “nuku” is the shortened version of “Papatuanuku” meaning ‘Earth’) is the star connected with everything that grows in the ground to be harvested or gathered for food.

Tupuārangi

Tupuārangi is the star associated with food sources that come from the sky, such as birds, or fruit and berries from trees.

Waitī

Waitī is connected with all freshwater bodies and the food sources sustained by those waters. Waitī watches over freshwater environments such as awa (rivers), roto (lakes), kūkūwai (wetlands), and waipuna (springs).

Waitā

Waitā represents the ocean and the seafood that can be harvested from it. This star encourages us to respect our coasts, oceans and marine life. 

Waipuna-ā-Rangi:

Waipuna-ā-Rangi is connected with rain, hail and snow.

Ururangi

Ururangi is connected with the various winds.

Hiwa-i-te-Rangi

Hiwa-i-te-Rangi is a wishing star, helping us to realise our hopes and aspirations for the coming year. 

With travel restrictions all but over, who wants to come visit?

As Kiwis and proud New Zealanders, we love showing off our country, so this most recent announcement easing travel restrictions for everyone is so exciting!

So if the admin around sorting through travel restrictions has been hindering your plans, the wait is now over! You can be assured of some of the most spectacular New Zealand experiences at this time of year without the hassle and worry of restrictions.

Here are the key details:

• Pre-departure RAT tests are now not required to enter NZ from Tuesday 21st June 2022.
• Travellers will still be required to do a self-test on day 1 and again on 6, with any positive tests needing a PCR to understand new Covid-19 strain development.
• Passengers transiting through New Zealand will no longer need to be vaccinated and will not be required to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration.
• Travellers with Covid-19 like symptoms (e.g. Hayfever) will also be able to choose between showing a negative Covid test or a certificate from a health professional – stating that they are unlikely to have Covid-19 – before travelling.”

With increased flight capacity on its way, this will be welcome news to keen travellers seeking to fill their bucket with a slice of 100% Pure NZ.

We look forward to hosting you at a PurePod soon! Now the only question will be, which one? Check them out here

If you are travelling north of Canterbury to stay at a PurePod, make sure you allocate some time to discover a little secret – a North Canterbury road where three award-winning wineries and a sculpture park sit within a short drive of each other. 

Southbank is perched on the Southbank of the Waipara River. All of the Southbank businesses are like-minded, family operated, and share a passion for their special part of Waipara. 

Terrace Edge

The sun-drenched Terrace Edge is your first stop along the stretch of road home to the South Bank wineries (Terrace Edge, George’s Road, and The Bone Line). Nestled between vines and olive trees, Terrace Edge Cellar offers wine and extra virgin olive oil tastings, we highly recommend trying one of their gourmet toasties as well! 

Georges Road Wines

Georges Road Wines is a cellar door not to be missed. Head winemaker and owner Kirk Bray is usually pouring the wines himself, filling you in on the details of making a perfect glass of vino. Create your own antipasto platter to experience even more North Canterbury treats.

The Bone Line Cellar Door and Walkway 

The Bone Line Walkway is a great way to see what is happening in the vineyard and taste the wines in the environment they were grown and made in. The short walkway takes you between the vines and provides info boards for you to learn more about the plants and the environment. After your walk, pop into the cellar door to indulge in some of the region’s most coveted wines. 

Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park 

Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park overlooks the Waipara River Valley. On display are many different sculptures from amusing kinetic works through to giant steel and stainless steel pieces that are sure to impress. The property has been planted in native plants and trees creating a perfect setting for people to come and picnic and enjoy the artwork. 

Make sure you grab an extra bottle of your favourite wine to enjoy on your private PurePod deck.  

 

If you’re staying at our Greystone PurePod or heading further north to our Kaikōura PurePods make sure you stop at the award-winning Greystone Vineyard to pick up a bottle (or two) of wine for your PurePod stay. Discover their world famous Vineyard Ferment Pinot Noir, or book in for a long lunch. 

When it comes time to popping the big question, no doubt, you’ll be keen to create the perfect romantic and memorable occasion. At PurePods we help lots of our guests get prepared to pop the question, so we’ve put together a list of our top 3 tips to help you pull off the perfect proposal!

Find the perfect location

Looking for a secluded location surrounded by nature, with a touch of luxury, a PurePod can provide the perfect setting to ask the big question. But which PurePod location to pick is the tricky part! 

For those who want to go all out, then select either our Kahutara or Manakau PurePod and include the option for a scenic helicopter ride and enjoy an unforgettable picnic at altitude amongst the stunning Seaward Kaikōura Ranges with spectacular 360-degree views. Take time to capture photos, pop the bubbles and enjoy a delicious picnic.

If you love wine, Greystone PurePod is set high above the award-winning Greystone vineyard, right in the heart of the Waipara Valley. Enjoy a long lunch at the cellar door and then head back to your PurePod to pop the question in private vines right outside your glass eco-cabin. 

Feeling like a rush of adrenaline before popping the question? The Atatū and Korimako PurePods have the perfect mountain biking activities available.  Make sure you secure the ring somewhere safe before you jump on the bike! 

And lastly, if you’re looking for a private location with stunning ocean views and glorious sunsets, Pōhue PurePod is the ticket. 

Our six PurePods are located in heavenly and private locations with all the facilities you require including a fabulous shower, flush toilet, crisp linen, and the most comfortable bed on the market! One thing you can be assured of is you and your loved one will be the only ones for miles. 

Keep it a surprise 

To avoid blowing the surprise, come up with an alternative story. 

They may know something’s up, as you jump in your car to head away for the night, but the beauty with PurePods is the location is a secret to everyone. After parking your car, you will follow the walking track through regenerating native bush which adds to the surprise and anticipation. 

Making it special and unique  

To make your proposal one they’ll never forget, incorporate special memories. Many of our guests use personal photos, display love messages, and have their favourite bottle of wine waiting. 

Our team at PurePods love helping guests pull off the perfect proposal. We’re happy to arrange battery candles, your favourite champagne, food hampers, flowers, and much more. 

Here are some images and quotes that make our team smile! 

“Thank you for a marvellous experience.  We had everything we could have needed for a great night.  Amazing, delicious food.  Much thanks to you, your chef and your team.  P.S. I proposed to Garry and he said Yes!!” Matt 

“He popped the question and I started to cry of happiness. He’s the love of my life, AND who could say no to a proposal like this?!” Linsey. 

“I said YES on our way to the glass eco house..in the middle of nature” Savinaatai. 

“The setup was nothing short of stunning! Kiri was still mesmerised when I launched into my planned speech and got down on one knee. She cried, said YES and we embraced before she walked around checking out the photos, flowers, and champagne. Also a BIG thank you to you for organising all of it. I will forever think of the amazing Jackie whenever I think of our engagement. You have been so patient, helpful and willing to go the extra mile for us and I couldn’t thank you enough!” Makho.

Although there is an overwhelming temptation to do absolutely nothing at all while staying at a PurePod, for the more energetic amongst us, the Atatū and Korimako PurePods have the perfect mountain biking activities available. 

Your adventure begins with a drive through Greta Valley farmland, perhaps giving way to a curious cow or two! 

Once you spot your private, glass eco-cabin glinting in the sunlight, you’ll feel immediately welcomed and excited to start your mountain bike adventure. 

Waiting at your PurePod will be a map for the private mountain bike farm loop. The track has beautiful views towards the Hurunui River mouth and the Pegasus Bay coastline. 

The track includes some steep gradients for that extra bit of fun and adrenalin. With an average fitness level you’ll be able to complete the mountain biking track in around 1.5 hours.

Don’t worry, you don’t need to miss out if you don’t have your own mountain bikes with you, as the farmer can provide electric mountain bikes. 

Disclaimer – you may have to share the track with a sheep or two! 

Once you’ve finished your bike, head back to your PurePod for a piping hot shower and enjoy a beverage on the deck. Soak up the beauty of the dramatic natural landscapes in your glass eco-cabin and wait for the sun to set to reveal Canterbury’s stunning night sky.

For more information check out the Atatū and Korimako listings. Every PurePods stay offers a unique experience with nature putting on a show.

“We really enjoyed it and the scenery was next level” Kathryn (stayed at Korimako PurePod). 

Images from guests Rebecca and Ryan who stayed at Atatū PurePod.

There are lots of benefits to winter; snuggling up with your special someone, enjoying your favourite red wine, skiing and gazing up at the inky-black sky full of stars and bright planets.

Stargazing is wonderful anytime of the year, but in the winter, the sky is at its most clear. Stargazing reconnects you with nature, as you stare in awe of the vastness of the star-filled sky.

Check out our guide to winter stargazing below.

Book a PurePod

It’s winter, but you don’t need to be stuck in the city in the dreary cold. Treat yourself and your significant other to a winter getaway. PurePods are designed to ensure you experience nature’s show vividly, utilising all your senses whilst remaining sheltered in luxury. The effect is incredible. With a glass roof you can watch all the twinkling stars or perhaps a winter storm roll in whilst staying toasty warm in a luxurious bed.

Escape the city

With light pollution in towns and cities obstructing our view of nature’s show, it’s best to head out of town and well away from the city lights. PurePods are completely isolated and surrounded by nature – the sky, the hills, the sea, the birds, the bush – so no light pollution.

Reach for the telescope

To get the full stargazing experience each of our PurePods have a telescope so you can check out the planets, stars and meteor showers.

Layer up

If you decide to venture out of the warm coziness of your glass PurePod and stargaze from the deck, then layer up your clothing, or take advantage of the hot water bottles and picnic blankets to rug up in the fresh night air.

Tips for capturing the moment

Paul Wilson specialises in astrophotography, and his top tips for taking great photos of the night sky, start with a tripod to keep your camera totally still. This way, as you take long exposure photography of the magnificent view above, you’ll be able to keep your camera nice and still and avoid taking blurry images.

For best results you’ll want a wide angle lens to catch as much of the sky as you can, a 14mm or 24mm lens is ideal.

Remember to take off auto focus and manually focus on the stars, also set a 2 second timer so your camera doesn’t get bumped when pressing the shutter button.

And lastly, it’s all about the fun of trying new things and experimenting, there are no rules when it comes to photography! We love receiving guest photos, so send us the snaps you’re most proud of.

Every night staying at PurePods is a unique experience with nature putting on a show.