Summary:
Welcome to Secret Hideaway by Tiny Away ! This holiday homes NZ escape is nestled in the tranquil Waikaretu Valley at 865 Waikaretu Valley Road, RD 5, Tuakau. A serene retreat surrounded by lush native bush, rolling pastures, and breathtaking views, offers a peaceful escape with convenient access to attractions like the Naike Caves and local cafes.
The property boasts a welcoming landscape where you can fully immerse yourself in nature, providing an ideal setting for a nature-centric lifestyle.
The Space:
Secret Hideaway by Tiny Away is located in the rural countryside of Glen Murray, just an hour's drive from Auckland or Hamilton. The tiny home is set in a welcoming landscape where you can fully immerse yourself in nature.
On weekends, the peace is briefly interrupted by sports cars and motorbikes near the Thundercross Valley Dirt Bike Track, which is about 12 minutes away on a different road. As you head down our road to the Naike Caves, you'll pass a 750-acre farm with tracks through limestone bluffs and native bush. Be sure to stop by Nikau Café for coffee and pizza!
What's more, we're only 32 minutes from Pokeno, home to the serene Pokeno Waterfall and scenic Mount William Walkway. Back at the tiny house, the retreat is often surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature, with Tui birds, wood pigeons, and kingfishers soaring overhead, and fantails and dragonflies dancing around the pond. Take a leisurely stroll up the hill for breathtaking views of the historic Waikaretu Valley Road and a stunning sunset from a scenic overlook.
A cozy 139-square-foot tiny home with easy water access, split air conditioning, a kitchenette, cooking equipment, and excellent bathroom facilities. These amenities include an eco-friendly cassette toilet with a removable waste holding tank, hand basin, and shower (gas-heated for hot showers).
If you plan to spend your holiday homes NZ escape here, we advise that you bring your basic necessities, such as food and water during your stay with us. Thank you.
Guest Access:
Guests will have access to the tiny house and its surroundings, but access to the private homes and sheds on the property is restricted.
If you are here at the right time of the year you may be able to enjoy some of the fruit from the home gardens numerous trees including avocados and nashi pears.
The Neighborhood:
Secret Hideaway by Tiny Away is located in the rural town of Glen Murray, just an hour's drive from Auckland. Glen Murray is known for its serene countryside, picturesque landscapes, and rural charm.
For a quick getaway, Pokeno is 32 minutes away with its beautiful green countryside. Mercer, just 7 minutes from Pokeno, is a charming town known for its history.
Our local recommendations:
- Waikaretu Falls is a picturesque waterfall in the Waikaretu area, known for its natural beauty and tranquil setting.
- Naike Caves is a fascinating network of caves featuring unique geological formations, perfect for adventurous explorers.
- Pokeno Waterfall is a serene waterfall located near Pokeno, offering a peaceful spot for nature lovers to enjoy the surrounding scenery.
- Mount William Walkway is a scenic walking trail that provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape and enjoy the area's natural beauty.
- Thundercross Valley Dirt Bike Track is a popular motocross destination with tracks for all skill levels, hosting events, offering rider facilities, and providing scenic riding experiences.
Explore nearby markets and cafes
- Tuakau New World in Tuakau offers a range of groceries and essentials for visitors and locals alike.
- Tuakau Village Shopping Centre is a shopping hub in Tuakau with various stores and services.
- Pokeno Market (Sundays) is a lively market held every Sunday in Pokeno, featuring local produce, crafts, and various stalls.
- Naike Cafe is a quaint café serving delicious food and coffee, ideal for a relaxing stop while exploring the nearby attractions.
- Port Waikato Holiday Park Cafe is a cozy café located at the Port Waikato Holiday Park, offering a variety of snacks and refreshments with a relaxed atmosphere.
Festive Events:
- One Love Festival 2025: Join Aotearoa's ultimate reggae festival on January 25-26, 2025, at Tauranga Domain. The lineup features 46 acts, including international and iconic artists such as Maoli, Rebel Souljahz, Katchafire, and more. The festival will feature two stages—the main stage and an Aotearoa stage celebrating Kiwi music.
Getting Around:
By car:
> From Auckland Airport, 1 hr 9 mins, 92 km. The nearest town (Te Kauwhata) is 37 mins, 36 km. To get to Glen Murray from Auckland, follow these steps:
1. Start on SH1: Head south on State Highway 1 (SH1) from Auckland.
2. Exit onto SH22: Take the exit for State Highway 22 (SH22) towards Pukekohe.
3. Continue on SH22: Stay on SH22, passing through Pukekohe and continuing towards Glen Murray.
4. Turn onto Glen Murray Road: Follow the signs and turn onto Glen Murray Road.
5. Arrive in Glen Murray: Continue on Glen Murray Road until you reach your destination in Glen Murray.
> From Hamilton Airport, 1 hr 21 mins, 91 km. The nearest town (Te Kauwhata) is 37 mins, 36 km. To get to Glen Murray from Hamilton, follow these directions:
1. Start on SH1: Head south on State Highway 1 (SH1) from Hamilton.
2. Take SH22: Exit onto State Highway 22 (SH22) toward Pukekohe.
3. Follow SH22: Continue on SH22, passing through Pukekohe and towards Glen Murray.
4. Turn onto Glen Murray Road: Watch for signs and turn onto Glen Murray Road.
5. Arrive in Glen Murray: Follow Glen Murray Road to your destination in Glen Murray.
Please advise that all the above-mentioned airports can be reached by both 2WD and 4WD vehicles.
By public transport: Traveling from Auckland to Glen Murray by public transport involves a few steps, as there is no direct service between these locations. Here’s a general guide:
By Bus:
From Auckland to Pukekohe:
- Take a Bus: You can catch a bus from Auckland to Pukekohe. Intercity and other regional bus services offer routes between Auckland and Pukekohe.
From Pukekohe to Glen Murray:
- Local Bus or Taxi: From Pukekohe, you would need to arrange for a local bus service, if available, or a taxi to Glen Murray. Local public transport options may be limited, so checking in advance for local services or arranging a taxi might be necessary.
As an added note, remember to check current schedules and routes for both the bus and train services through the respective providers.
Other Things to Note:
- Coffee and tea are provided
- Gas BBQ grill may be available for use with prior notice
- The nearest supermarket is about a 37-minute drive away
- WiFi is not available; however, there is 3G/4G service, though it may be intermittent
- No smoking allowed inside the tiny home
- No unregistered guests or visitors are allowed
- Dogs/animals must be leashed near the owner’s area
- Pets are allowed, but please keep them away from the main property
- Pets are not allowed on beds and sofas, and please clean up after your pet’s droppings
- Please clean up after your pet’s shedding before checking out in courtesy of other guests
- Please note that this is a PET-FRIENDLY property, and pet policies will be sent prior to arrival
- We would like to advise guests that longer stays or later check-outs will incur an additional charge
NOTICE TO ALL: Please be advised that there may be farming activity, we can have free-roaming farm animals (and potential noise) on our property
Important note:
- Due to the nature of the property, abundant wildlife may be present on the property
- Keep in mind that BBQ grills and outdoor fire pits are not available during a total fire ban
- For stays of 5 nights or more, an additional cleaning fee will be collected to help maintain the [compost/cassette] toilets and ensure a clean and fresh experience for all guests. We appreciate your understanding.
Interaction with Guests:
Guests will enjoy your own private space but we are always happy to chat with you.
