Fancy a weekend in a stylish boatshed on Waiheke Island? How about a romantic escape to a little house in Papakura? Looking for a retro caravan stay at the beach? This list of Fun Auckland Weekend Getaways offers a diverse and quirky range of places to stay.
These country, bush, and beach locales are all within an hour’s drive radius. Perfect if you’re looking for a unique R&R with no long drive ahead. Or you’re a visitor exploring the region and seeking a quirky stay…
- 1. Romantic Sanctuary in the Bush – Titirangi
- 2. Chalet, Rural Auckland – Puhoi
- 3. The Barn in Riverhead – North West Auckland
- 4. Silverdale Retreat – Orewa
- 5. Fantail Bush Chalet – Parakakau
- 6. Cosy Boutique Rural Tiny Home – Papakura
- 7. Coastal Retro Caravan Nights – Beachlands
- 8. Boatsheds on the Bay – Waiheke Island
- 9. Bach 78 and Bach 114 Islington Bay – Rangitoto Island
Type of Accommodation: Country and Bush | Tiny House
Destination: New Zealand | North Island | Auckland
Price Range: Cabin/Hostel $ | Budget $$ | Mid-range $$$ | Luxury $$$$ | Super Luxe $$$$+
Bookings with: VRBO/Bookabach | Agoda | Booking
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See Affiliate Disclaimer.
West Auckland Accommodation
1. Romantic Sanctuary in the Bush – Titirangi
Best for: Zen Bush Escape for 2 Guests, Near Titirangi Village, Peaceful, Tranquil, $$
Snuggle in for an idyllic stay at this beautiful hideaway surrounded by native forest in West Auckland. Romantic Sanctuary in the Bush is a peaceful studio set on a 3000 square metre property with kauri trees and native birds all around and the stunning West Coast beaches close by.
The chalet is a spacious studio with Japanese design elements and includes a comfortable king-size bed, sofa, en-suite with underfloor heating, decks, and nature! Set up more like a hotel room with only a fridge, microwave, hot water jug, and toaster, but all the lovely eateries and cafes in Titirangi Village are close to the chalet.
Local Eateries: Xoong – Asian Fusion; Deco Eatery – Mediterranean Cafe; Iti – bar with amazing burgers; plus Village Kebab, Stripe Cafe, Titirangi Indian Kitchen (vegan available).
Good to Know
- Adults only – 2 guests
- Free WIFI
- Off-street parking
- Heat pump for winter, air-conditioning in summer
- Book at VRBO/Bookabach
North Auckland Accommodation
2. Chalet, Rural Auckland – Puhoi
Best for: Country Holiday Home for 3 Guests, Spa Pool, Swimming Pool, Contemporary, Hiking, $$
A lovely fairy tale cottage on the outside and contemporary on the inside, this Chalet is only 35 minutes from Auckland and is the perfect base for exploring Puhoi, Matakana, the Hibiscus Coast, Orewa, and the Wenderholm Regional Park.
From this recently renovated and stylish chalet, you’re a quick walk to Puhoi Village with the historic Puhoi Pub, General Store, and Cafe, the smallest library in New Zealand, and the intriguing Bohemian Museum. The famous Puhoi Cheese Factory is a quick 3km drive away for delicious meals, cheese tasting, and fine ice cream!
Also, if you have time don’t miss The Sculptureum in Matakana with sculpture-filled gardens, a vineyard, six art galleries, wine, and restaurants. If you enjoy walking then hike the Puhoi Lookout Track which takes around 2 hours and is a nice taste of New Zealand’s 3,000km trail, Te Aroroa, that winds through the length of New Zealand.
The Chalet
At the chalet, the saltwater swimming pool is a winning activity along with relaxing soaks in the spa pool. Recently renovated, the chalet has a bedroom upstairs with a super king-size bed, chaise longue, and balcony, downstairs there’s a fold-out futon (and comfy topper), TV, kitchenette with fridge, stove, microwave, dishwasher, and the tiled bathroom has a large shower.
Good to Know
- Suitable for up to 3 guests
- The chalet is near the main house
- Guests over 12 years old (babies ok)
- Washing machine in the kitchen
- Book with VRBO/Bookabach
READ MORE:
- Unique and Boutique Rotorua Accommodation – Luxurious Stays
- Crab Cove: A Luxury Cave Retreat in Northland
- Pagoda Lodge in Kerikeri – Cool Stays!
- Magic Cottages at Takou River in the Beautiful Bay of Islands, Kerikeri
3. The Barn in Riverhead – North West Auckland
Best for: Renovated Barn Holiday Home for 2, Cruise from central Auckland, Farmstay, $$
Take a Boat
If you want a carefree and carless holiday then why not catch the ferry to The Barn in Riverhead, a beautifully converted 2-level barn set in lovely gardens with native birds, chooks, and beehives? Definitely try the amazing raw honey.
The Red Boats Company operates daily ferries from Auckland to Riverhead. You’ll cruise under the Harbour Bridge, and through the scenic upper Waitemata Harbour to the 150-year-old Riverhead Historic Tavern – the oldest riverside tavern in New Zealand. On this 1.5-hour trip, you’ll learn all about the history of the region.
Once you arrive at the pub you might like to stop for a refreshing drink and some premium pub fare and then it’s a quick walk to The Barn in Riverhead. FYI: If you’re driving to Riverhead from central Auckland then it’s only a 21-minute trip.
The Barn
The barn is spacious and thoughtfully furnished with modern interiors that include recycled rimu wooden flooring, wrought iron railing, coloured glass windows, a comfortable lounge and dining, a wood burner for colder temperatures, a mezzanine bedroom and en-suite, and french doors out to an outdoor covered deck with dining.
What’s Nearby? Hallertau Brewery, Coatesville Market (first Sunday of the month), Catalina Bay Farmers Market (every Saturday and Sunday), Muriwai Beach, and Woodhill Forest.
Good to Know
- Queen-size bed for two guests – upstairs
- Kitchen with dishwasher, stove, pantry items, oven, toaster, utensils, and crockery
- Sky TV, books, games
- Parking on site
- Fresh sourdough bread is available daily (to eat with your raw honey!)
- Book at VRBO/Bookabach
Travel Resources for Your Auckland Weekend Getaways
- Looking for travel insurance? For New Zealand domestic and overseas travel Cover-more Travel Insurance have an excellent range of policies.
- Book the best tours and guides at GetYourGuide and let someone else do all the organising!
- Get the best flight deals with WayAway who offer cashback deals. Join WayAway Plus now and get a 10% discount.
- If you need a pickup from the airport, book one on GetTransfer.
4. Silverdale Retreat – Orewa
Best for: Affordable Caravan Stay for 2, Beaches Nearby, Adults-only, $$
Silverdale Retreat offers two warm and comfy caravans with everything you need for a very affordable and peaceful break away on a 2-acre property in Silverdale near Orewa and Red Beach. The caravans are quiet but you’re close to plenty of shops and eateries, Little Manly Beach is only 7kms away.
This is an adult-only bed and breakfast accommodation. Each caravan has a fixed double bed at one end and a lounge at the other. In between, you have the little kitchen with stove, oven, fridge, microwave oven, and kettle. The bathroom has a toilet, basin, and shower. This is definitely one of the more affordable unique places to stay in Auckland!
Good to Know
- TV, DVD Player
- Outdoor Dining
- Free WIFI
- Outdoor Furniture
- Book at Agoda
5. Fantail Bush Chalet – Parakakau
Best for: Nature Chalet B&B for 2 Guests, Forest Garden Retreat, Near Orewa, $$
With the doors open wide, wake up to the soft sounds of the forest and the songs of native birds in this nature cabin in Parakakau. Only 10 km inland from Orewa, Fantail Bush Chalet is a stylish rustic retreat in a lush forest setting. The bijou cabin includes an ensuite, kitchenette, extra large double bed, and a spacious deck with outdoor furniture.
Enjoy the wonderfully delicious breakfast then take a stroll through the forested gardens. This is one of the most romantic Auckland weekend getaways on this list!
What’s Nearby? Soljans Estate Winery, Little Manly Beach, Orewa Beach, great boutique shopping and restaurant scene in Orewa, Estuary Arts Centre.
Good to Know
- Free WIFI
- A flat-screen TV with Netflix
- Kitchenette
- Linen, towels, and toiletries included
- 46kms to Auckland Airport, 31kms to central Auckland
- Book at Booking.com
See the Slideshow and pop your dates in – you’ll stay on this page to see the prices
SOUTH AUCKLAND
6. Cosy Boutique Rural Tiny Home – Papakura
Best for: Rural Tiny Home for Two, Peaceful, Horse Riding Nearby, $$
This cosy rural tiny home is the nicest place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Nestled between feijoa hedges and set back from the main road, you’ll find peace and quiet in this private and secluded setting.
The tiny home features a mezzanine bedroom, a spacious deck with stunning sunset views, and private access. It’s located just 5 minutes from Auckland’s Southern motorway, 35 minutes from the CBD, and 20 minutes from Auckland International Airport. It’s also a short drive to the Karaka Bloodstock Centre, making it a great choice for those with equestrian interests.
Review: We had a blast staying here and loved the cow neighbours.
Good to Know
- Private and peaceful setting
- Linen provided
- Internet, TV with Freeview and Netflix, DVD player and DVDS
- Fully equipped kitchenette
- Bathroom with toiletries and towels
- Book your stay today and experience the peace and quiet of rural Auckland!
East Auckland – Pohutukawa Coast
7. Coastal Retro Caravan Nights – Beachlands
Best for: Bespoke Caravan for 2, Unique Honeymoon Stay, Beach and Park Location, Romantic, $$
Groovy groovy place to stay in Auckland! Listen to jazz cds, embrace the 60’s vibe, and enjoy this romantic and cool little caravan called Claris! Enjoy a blissful getaway at this fab waterfront location in Omana Regional Park on the gorgeous Pohutukawa Coast. With views across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island, stunning shelly beaches, rainforest walks, and clear nights for star watching, this is a unique destination.
Review: Excellent nice little intimate location and stay, absolutely perfect for our wedding night.
What’s Nearby? Walk at low tide to Motukaraka Island, swim at Maretai Beach, and enjoy pub grub at The Stables Whitford – a general store transformed into a country pub, Pine Harbour Mariner for a French-inspired country market held every Saturday.
Good to Know:
- Small Regional Park fees apply
- The caravan accommodates 2 adults or 1 adult and 1 child
- Linen, towels, crockery, and cutlery included
- Retro bikes with baskets are available to hire and are highly recommended to explore the park and Beachlands
- Book with VRBO/Bookabach for one of the Quirkiest Auckland Weekend Getaways!
Waiheke Island
8. Boatsheds on the Bay – Waiheke Island
Best for: Mini Resort, Bespoke Boatsheds for 2 Guests, Private Beach, Kayaks, $$
Head to Greece and the Pacific on Waiheke Island in this peaceful and romantic paradise! Boatsheds on the Bay is a little resort with four blue and white boatsheds sitting on the edge of tidal Putiki Bay.
Each beautifully designed boatshed is self-contained and stylish with comfy bedding for two, ensuite with shower and toilet, kitchenette with fridge, small deck, and outdoor seating – all on a private beach. Book an individual cabin or for groups book the whole resort.
Take a Video Tour Here…
Good to Know:
- Each boatshed accommodates two guests
- Free WIFI
- Parking on site
- TV, linen, towels, and toiletries provided
- Book at Agoda
Unique Places to Stay in Auckland: Rangitoto Island
9. Bach 78 and Bach 114 Islington Bay – Rangitoto Island
Best for: Holiday Retro Baches for 6 Guests, Island Hideaway, Swimming, Hiking, Games
Why not grab the crew and spend a retro holiday on Rangitoto Island? The Rangitoto Island Historic Conservation Trust offers three classic holiday baches (holiday homes) on this volcanic island at Islington Bay. This bay is a 1.5-hour walk from Rangitoto Wharf, which is where the Auckland ferry arrives.
But why not catch a water taxi straight to the front steps of your very own island getaway?
Staying in one of these baches is a step back in time with off-grid living, bunk beds, games from the 1940s, swimming kayaking, and bush walks. No technology in sight!
Read more about the baches here: Rangitoto Island Accommodation – Bach 78 and Bach 114 Islington Bay
Book one of these super fun Auckland Weekend Getaways
I hope you’ve enjoyed this post on Fun Auckland Weekend Getaways. Check out this list of Cool and Unique places to stay in Auckland
SEE MORE
- 6 Reasons to Indulge at Huka Lodge Taupo New Zealand
- Hulbert House Luxury Boutique Lodge Queenstown
- Best Eco-Friendly Places to Stay in New Zealand
- Piwakawaka Family Hut – Taranaki’s Rainforest Treehouse
- Eco-Friendly Places to Stay in the North Island of New Zealand
- Eco-Friendly Places to Stay in the South Island of New Zealand
