When coming up through the West Coast of the North Island, theres a turn off called Donnelly’s Crossing. Here you'll find yourself entering old lands. Old Kauri swamps and gravel roads guide your way till you see the beacon to enter Wild Forest Estate. A large red flag.
We arrived on a warm summer’s day, greeted by our host Anna in her golf buggy, we knew we were in for a treat. Wild Forest is the passion project of Anna, who saw potential on their large acre property which is situated in the middle of an old Kauri forest, to be converted into a beautiful off grid site for guests to experience life in the north island. Located 3 hours North of Auckland, on the west coast, Wild Forest is surrounded by some of the top must-see visits in New Zealand. We highly recommend visiting the Kai Iwi Lakes and the famous Tane Mahuta while here. Tane, the second largest tree in the world, sees thousands of domestic and international tourists a year. You’ll have Tane right on your doorstep.
The expansive property that Wild Forest sits on, is home t o three bookable accomodations. One, a converted container named ‘The Tin Box’, another, the Lotus Belle Tent, finally The Cottage. All have their own unique charm. The Tin Box and Lotus Belle are both fully off the grid - the container with solar panels and the tent with LED’s to guide your way. The Cottage a separated space attached to the main house, comfortable for the older guests who still want to experience life in the country. You’ll find this destination stay is perfect for two for a long weekend getaway.
We spent one night in the Tin Box and One in The Lotus Bell, to really immerse ourselves in the experience. Upon arrival at the Tin Box, you’ll be greeted with a sublime outdoor kitchen, a fire pit, a swinging hammock and basic amenities for a comfortable off-grid stay. We unpacked our belongings and sat for a moment to enjoy the peaceful sounds of the bush. If you’re like me, the sound of Weka and crickets and other small mammals is an ingrained soulful sound, growing up in New Zealand, it reminds us we are never alone among our native wild life.
A hearty dinner and few gins later we tucked ourselves into bed and listened as we heard a faint kiwi call in the bush below. Wild Forest in renowned for hearing kiwi’s from time to time. A rare experience for many, but far from out of the norm here. It was magical, it felt like Aotearoa was at our doorstep.
The next day was spent exploring the wild west coast. Aranga Beach, Tane Mahuta, and the Kai Iwi Lakes. You’ll be spoilt for choice for your day trips here. We also managed to drop in to the local cafe ‘Sharky’s Takeaway’ around 2pm. We’d heard from a local they made killer margaritas (yes… even remote towns can whip up a cheeky marg!) Verdict? Sublime.
The efforts made by Joanna to turn these stays into an unforgettable experience is what makes guests return time and time again. After a weekend of stargazing, kiwi birds, lake dips and margaritas, we packed up our belongings and jumped in the van. We looked back on the fading cabin and felt a pang of nostalgia. A little taste of the off grid soothes the soul… and makes for a great story.
Book your stay at Wild Forest Estate HERE
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