Wacky Accommodation

So you’re not content to sleep in a regular bed in a regular building? One of these weird and wacky stays might appeal.

LIGHTHOUSE LAYOVERS

Straddling the esplanade, The Lighthouse, in Wellington’s Island Bay stands stoic on windswept coastline. Featuring three levels, wraparound balconies and ocean views, it’s fully self-contained and utterly charming.

MUD HUTS

Wake up to morning yoga and meditation: Solscape is Raglan’s answer to a wellness retreat, albeit more rugged. Eco-friendly lodgings pepper the compound, but the earth domes are most unique. Made from rock, sand and clay, the larger huts feature a cosy mezzanine with huge floor cushions.

GRAIN SILOS

A little industrial, and a dash postapocalyptic, the eight grain silos at SiloStay in Little River have been remodelled to include external balconies, spiral staircases and a myriad of mod cons.

SiloStay, Little River, Canterbury © Schwörer TOP: The Lighthouse, Island Bay, Wellington © Lou Hatton

HOBBIT HOUSE

Equal parts enchanting and romantic, Underhill sought inspiration from Hobbiton. Privatelyowned and tucked away in the Waikato, a tiny wooden bridge leads to a small cottage built into the grassy knoll. Indoors, there’s medieval décor, a bathroom cave and skylight to the stars.

Underhill, Waikato © Canopy Camping Escapes

PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES

Once a simple Waitomo farm, Woodlyn Park is now a labyrinth of quirky accommodation. Stay in a repurposed plane, a remodelled train, a large ship or hobbit house.

FLY IN BY CABLE CAR

The Flying Fox offers eco-friendly accommodation on the Whanganui River. Comprising three unique accommodations, the experience starts with a private cable car arrival.

SLEEP IN A SHOE

In the Nelson Tasman region, you can stay overnight in the heel of a gigantic shoe. ‘The Boot B&B’ is a one-off structure with a cosy interior and hearth, as well as a courtyard and outdoor fireplace.

The Boot at Jester House © Oliver Weber

VW CAMPERVANS

Combine the freedom of a campervan with the retro styling of a VW Kombi. Classic Campers specialise in nationwide retro campervan hire. The hardest decision is picking a groovy colour.

KEEP ON TRUCKIN’

The Amazing House Truck lives up to its name. Based in beautiful Golden Bay, it’s army green, elevated and isolated. The cast iron fireplace makes winter warm and in summer, the sunsets are divine.