From simple huts to remote luxury, and from being alone to being alone in a crowd, we have some really far-out adventures to share this week.
This episode covers the Coromandel, the South Island’s Routeburn and Hollyford tracks, windy Iceland, the Bolivian Salt Plains, and newly opened Sydney – one of the last places you might expect to experience being alone.
Each of the six PurePods has a different outside to the next. Some sit above valleys; others near water bodies; and one, the Greystone, on an award-winning organic winery. The view was the most important factor Hassall and her team considered when choosing sites. Next was privacy. “We need to make sure you feel completely safe in that glass without there being people wandering around,” she says.
Lastly, with all PurePods on farmland, Hassall needed to ensure she was working with farmers that were as passionate as she was about providing an amazing experience. A water source and the direction of the sunrise and sunset also came into play when choosing sites – the latter being crucial as the house relies on solar power.
“I probably see 20 to 30 sites and there will be one or two out of that that I go ‘This could be a good building site’,” says Hassall.
Once the site is picked and the house delivered, it’s then in the hands of the farmers. Hassall ensures they’re fully briefed and trained on how to clean and maintain the house, as well as the dinner and breakfast ingredients to provide. In keeping with the sustainability theme, most of it comes from their own garden or from a local café.
The experience was designed to begin even entering the cabin, says Hassall. It starts as soon as you leave the real world behind. “Part of the experience is parking your car, leaving all your big luggage there and just taking an overnight bag and a short walk through nature.”
Walks vary in length, with the shortest being just 400 metres and the longest 1.2km. “That can take 25 to 30 minutes depending on fitness levels because there is a little bit of a gradient to get up.
“But the view is totally worth it. It’s just so worth it. We make it clear on our website the location and view you like, and also how challenging or not challenging the walk is to get there.”
Each PurePod is equipped with solar-powered LED lighting, a fridge and water system. Bio-fuel heaters heat the floor and the hot water. And the bed is one of the comfiest you’ll find.
And among the six PurePods, which is Hassall’s favourite? “It’s a bit like asking ‘Which is your favourite child?’” she says. “But I’m really passionate about water views so I love Atatū because I love watching the sun come out of the sea in the morning. It’s just amazing.
“And I also really like Kahutara. You’ve got the mountain view. You’ve got the river view. You’ve got the sound of the wind in the long grasses in the summertime. Actually, I could give you a reason why I love them all, to be fair.”
And visitors are realising this too – Hassall says she’s noticed guests starting to pod hop, booking multiple locations as they work their way from Christchurch up or the other way. Extending the experience should prove even more beneficial than just one night of disconnect. Hassall describes a stay at PurePods as a timeout.
“It’s that digital detox. It’s time to sit back and just enjoy the time with your special someone,” she says.
“How many times do you go out for coffee and you sit there in silence both looking at your phones? Here’s the chance to reconnect with that person and just sit there and listen to the sound of the birds.
“In fact, I got some feedback the other day from a guest who said for the first time on their three month holiday in New Zealand, they didn’t turn on any music all day. They just sat there and enjoyed the sounds of nature.”
You can tell by the name; you’re in for a cosy treat. The PurePod was designed to put you right in the middle of nature, indulge in all senses, and feel free from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. PurePods are made totally from glass, meaning the roof, floor, and walls are 100% transparent. Gaze up at the stars at night, and enjoy the gorgeous landscape in the daylight. Top this off with solar electricity, bio-fuel heaters, and many other eco-specs, and you’re away for a holiday of pure eco bliss.
Aro Ha: Queenstown
Queenstown is known as one of the greatest adventure hot spots in the world. Aro Ha was created for people interested in nature, adventure, self-development, alternative health, and results-orientated fitness. An Aro Ha honeymoon involves yoga, sub-alpine hiking, spa therapy, vegetarian cuisine, un-cooking classes, massage, functional strength training, and mindfulness practices. The accommodation has been designed to have a sustainable and eco-friendly story which you can find out more about here.
Tikoki Eco Retreat: Malborough Sounds
If you’re up for canoeing, glow-worm spotting, day walks, fishing, and tours of the gorgeous bay, you’re in for a treat! Tikoki is a secluded honeymoon getaway set up especially for peaceful evenings with candlelit dinners under the stars. The master bedroom is surrounded by native New Zealand bush, and the log fire means you’ll keep warm on the cooler evenings. The hosts aim to make your stay at Tikoki stress-free, meaning they look after everything for you.
Warblers Retreat: Auckland
Warbler’s Retreat is another perfect spot for couples seeking escapism and time together after the stressful stage of planning a wedding. The romantic one bedroom cottage has a self-contained kitchen, and outdoor eating spaces positioned amongst gorgeous gardens. The Warblers Retreat grow their own produce and provide you with seasonal fruit and vegetables every day. They cater to dairy-free and paleo guests, and the freshwater outdoor spa is dreamy.
Manawa Ridge: Coromandel
This hand built eco lodge sits nestled on a hilltop, with expansive views surrounding. It was built from recycled timber and energy efficient material, to reduce the impact of building, and keep nature at the heart of Manawa Ridge. The tranquil setting is perfect for honeymoons, meaning they now offer a complete honeymoon package. Enjoy a king bed, private pebble lined spa in a garden, a five-course meal for two (home grown meat and veggies), packed lunch and a walk, gourmet breakfasts, and a ride on their motorbike through the gorgeous Coromandel.
Whether your budget is small or large, New Zealand offers some of the most picturesque honeymoon escapes in the world.
“Pod-hopping is a great way to experience and immerse yourself into the backcountry of New Zealand. As you float over and look out onto the tussock hills, coast and farmland, guests will be able to hop from one spectacular view to another,” said Paul Carberry, New Zealand travel expert and founder of New Zealand In Depth. “Although a single night in any of the PurePod rooms is a wonderful experience, each has their own unique character and setting giving each one a different feel – so combining them together gives the opportunity to engage with a number of environments they offer.”
Each PurePod is located in a secret location away from roads, houses – or any other connection with the outside world. Having parked your car, there is on average a 25 min walk to the Pod. Rated 5-star for its quality of accommodation and services PurePod has also received an Enviro Gold by Qualmark for its low impact on the environment as it runs off-grid on solar power and using filtered rainwater.
However, PurePod’s off-grid credentials have not compromised its luxurious feel, with exclusive linen on a very comfortable bed, under floor heating and a powerful solar shower – every aspect of the stay has been considered to match the standards expected for a luxury retreat.
Available throughout the year, the PurePods are equally enjoyed in summer and winter conditions.
With spectacular views during the day, it is at night with a kaleidoscope of stars when the PurePod truly comes to life. On a clear night, the sky lights up with stars and the milky way. On a stormy night, it is a truly magical spot, safe and warm inside the PurePod watching nature put on a show. Whatever the weather, or time of year, PurePod delivers an experience that brings you closer to nature, alongside the comfort and quality that every luxury New Zealand holiday demands.
Privacy is key: each PurePod is located on private land, with fabulous views well away from all human activities. The experience starts as soon as you pull off the main road and leave the world behind. From your carpark, it is a 10 to 30-minute walk (depending on which PurePod you have chosen) with your overnight bag, through an indigenous nature trail. Once there, native planting is visible under you, the sky above you and the views through three walls.
There are five individual PurePods located in secluded and beautiful parts of Canterbury, and they are looking for new locations. Stephanie says the first PurePod was built on site with most materials carried in on foot. Over the last 18 months, they have developed a more prefabricated system. “It’s like a giant Meccano set, with as small an environmental footprint as possible.”
The buildings are PurePods’ trademarked and patented design, including the in-floor heating system set into the all-glass floor. Of course, PurePods use the expertise of local craftsmen, and from the beginning Coombes Sheet Metal and Fabrication has supported Purepods’ innovative designs by constructing components for the water and heating systems, and weather-proofing panelling, enabling it to perform in an exposed and remote natural environment.
The newest PurePod is at Pōhue, located high above Port Levy, where the view is rolling tussocks, down to the bay and out to the Pacific Ocean. Rock Formations (named by the original WWII Veteran owner’s Greek bride), known to climbers as The Acropolis and The Monument, are in front of and behind you.
Choosing which PurePod to book online is the most taxing part of the experience. The PurePods are identical, but each setting is unique: mountain, sea, bush, winery, and the seasons bring further variation: snow views, or golden grasses? You can book the next available PurePod, or a specific one, or why not PurePod-hop and try them all!
Look no further than PurePods. A truly unforgettable New Zealand experience. The first of it’s kind in the world and environmentally friendly. The Pods are made up of entirely glass, (floors, walls and roof!) this is a rare and amazing place to stay.
There are four PurePod locations. The locations were decided with complete privacy in mind. It’s a place to getaway from it all. Unplug and unwind as you soak up the incredible scenery on offer. It’s off the grid with no internet or cell phone reception you are left to just switch off and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
We were fortunate enough to stay in the Kahutara PurePod in June located 20 minutes inland from Kaikōura. This was a refreshing trip for us. With no distractions we were able to just stop and listen to nature, relax and reflect. Upon arriving at Kahutara pod we immediately felt a sense of peace and serenity. An easy 15 minute walk is required to reach the pod. The walk takes you through gorgeous farmland, over walk way bridges and a stunning back drop of the Kaikōura Mountains Ranges, we knew we were in for an exciting experience.
At our first glance of the PurePod, the design is clearly sleek and luxurious. It appears to almost float off the ground.
Our evening was wet but the PurePod felt incredibly cozy with sufficient heating. Hearing the wind and rain gave us the impression we were right in amongst the elements, but safe and snug at the same time. Cloud cover initially only allowed us to see just a few stars, however we found this restful and relaxing. We had pre ordered the catered dinner option which came with a delicious cheese platter, it was an amazing experience in itself.
We happened to awaken during the night to breath taking views. The cloud cover had magically began to clear and the stars were dazzling from the roof above us. Looking directly out in front of us, we could see the bold and beautiful dark outline of the giant Kaikōura Ranges. It was a surreal moment to experience.
As the sun beamed through the glass the next morning we were greeted with an amazing sunrise. The combination of the beautiful orange sunrise peeping over the tips of the snow capped covered mountains was a delight to watch. A cup of tea in hand and a tasty breakfast, this was a superb way to start to the day and explore Kaikōura.
Book anytime during the year, rain or sunshine and you are guaranteed to have the most outstanding experience. We simply cannot recommend PurePods enough.
The location of each glass hut is only revealed to guests after booking. Each PurePod is reached via a 15 minute walk through bushland, to create a feeling of seclusion and immersion in the surroundings.
Isolation in this case doesn’t mean you’ll be living in discomfort. The luxury glass cocoons give guests unobstructed views of surrounding lakes, valleys, mountains and glaciers. Each PurePod comes with a telescope to appreciate the ultra-clear night skies, while sliding doors on three sides of the cabin open to bring the feeling of nature inside. Green living hasn’t been forgotten either – all of the solar powered pods use rainwater and are stocked with organic toiletries.
Choose from one of the four PurePods, or spend a week ‘Pod-hopping’ and try them all.
“It’s just so quiet,” she says, as we amble along a dusty path through paddocks and bush to get to our destination.
Our home for the night is the Kahutara PurePod, one of two PurePods near Kaikōura. Featuring a glass floor, ceiling and walls, these eco-friendly pods allow guests to get as close to nature as possible, while still enjoying the comforts of a high-end home.
Clearly (no pun intended), a stay here is all about the view. When we arrive, we toss off our backpacks and take a moment to soak it all in. The rolling green hills, the Kahutara River, the snow-capped mountains – there’s plenty to see. The only sounds we hear now are the distant rumble of the river, birds chirping and the occasional lamb bleating. This is what “getting away from it all” is all about.
Adding to the adventure is the “secret” location of the Kahutara PurePod. In order to ensure privacy, guests are only given directions to their accommodation after they make a booking. The final leg of the journey involves a 15-minute hike to the pod, which is on private land, so it’s unlikely anyone would stumble across it.
It’s a good thing, too, seeing as the bathroom also features glass walls. There are blinds that can be pulled down if you are feeling a bit shy, but you don’t often get the chance to watch lambs frolicking on a hillside while you’re on the loo, so why not make the most of it?
We kick off our adventure with snacks and champagne while enjoying the amazing scenery from the deck. Guests can either bring their own food or buy a food package for two, which includes a cheese platter, dinner and breakfast. The kitchen has everything you need for cooking, including a hob and barbecue.
It’s not a large space, but the clever mix of glass and mirrors keeps it from feeling too cramped. “Simple but elegant,” is how my friend describes the modern decor and thoughtful design. Even the bed headboard and chairs are clear so they don’t obstruct the view.
There’s no TV, radio or cellphone coverage, which means the only option is to sit back and relax and that’s exactly what we do. After a leisurely dinner we spend the night talking, reading and simply watching the darkness roll in over the hills from our warm, cosy pod.
The moon and stars soon come out to play and, although we can see plenty from the pod, we decide to head outside for an even better view. It’s a crisp, clear night and the sky is spectacular – I can’t remember the last time I saw so many stars. It’s the perfect, peaceful way to end the day.
The next day starts early, as we’ve left the blinds open to wake with the sun. From the comfort of one of the best beds I’ve ever slept in, I watch the morning light move across the mountains. There’s something quite fabulous about being able to enjoy an extraordinary view from your bed, especially when the sliding glass walls around the pod are open. It truly does feel like you’re outdoors.
It’s a sunny and bright day, perfect for exploring, but the comfort of the pod makes it too hard to leave and we end up doing a whole lot of nothing, which is kind of the point.
Chatting by phone with PurePods chief executive Stephanie Hassall before our stay, she says the idea behind the pods is that you don’t have to rough it to have a true night out in nature.
“People get to really experience our landscape, but with five-star luxury,” she says. “The idea is that you come in and don’t see another human being again until you leave.
“It’s your own private paradise.”
Paradise, indeed. As we pack our bags we ponder how great it would be to stay another night. To heck with camping – this is my kind of nature experience.
In need of an off-the-grid getaway? Look no further than PurePods. These tiny and tranquil vacation homes are located in Tourism New Zealand idyllic countryside. Far from ordinary cabins, the beautiful bungalows are raised on stilts and made entirely of glass. This daring design provides picture-perfect panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, the open skies, and even the plants below.
Intended as an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, each humble hut is entirely isolated from the rest of the world—even reaching the rental requires a hike from the parking lot! The journey is outlined only by written instructions and serves as a meditative introduction to the local environment. Once the guests (maximum two-to-a-pod) find their new abode, they are welcomed with everything they need—and nothing they don’t. Amenities include a cozy bed, a fully-equipped kitchen (and even special delivery options if cooking is not on the agenda), a bathroom with a shower, and an emergency pack. WiFi and cellular reception are intentionally absent, as are television sets and even air conditioning; guests can instead beat the heat with retractable window blinds and ceiling shades.
On top of their sweeping views and sufficient amenities, PurePods are made entirely of glass and are exceptionally environmentally-friendly: each bungalow provides fresh water from local sources and is powered and heated by solar energy and bio-fuels. The structures’ raised design also allows the flora below to bloom, imposing minimum destruction to local plant life.
Secluded, sheltered, and sustainable, PurePods are the perfect way to camp in comfort.
