It’s long been said that people who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones, but what if you’re just renting the place? A magical retreat in New Zealand is the first venture from PurePods, tiny cottages made entirely of glass. The Little River is set in a massive valley and your PurePod has commanding 360 degree views of the valley from the sun rising over the hills to a dramatic view out over Lake Forsyth/Wairewa and the Pacific Ocean. A 15-minute walk and you’re in the middle of nowhere, high atop a valley with stunning views all around you, even when you’re indoors. The floor, the ceiling, the walls – the entire PurePod is made of reinforced glass. The privacy, the isolation of a tiny glass hut completely surrounded by nature – the sky, the hills, the sea, the birds, the bush – takes you to another world.
At night you sleep with the Southern Cross and millions of other stars, by day you are surrounded by dramatic natural landscapes with you own slice of pure New Zealand native bush literally at the back door. Relax, let nature refuel your soul. On hot days a retractable shade can be pulled over the roof and the walls opened to allow the breeze to pass through. Chilly? There’s a biofuel fireplace and a tiny kitchen for making hot beverages. Sustainability is a real focus here, with solar power used to power the LED lights, water system, and mini-fridge. A small gas burner and an outdoor grill provide dining options, or food can be delivered from local restaurants. Sleep under the stars and off the grid while staying warm and dry at PurePods’ amazing first location, where a night goes for around $292.
While the PurePod is designed to allow you a few blissful days off the grid there are some unique activities just nearby if you want to wander.
- Manaia Bird Sanctuary
- Little River Rail Trail – an easy to navigate bike trail that follows an old railway track out past Lake Forsyth and over the birdlife paradise of Lake Ellesmere Te Waihora
- Little River Café and Gallery – world renowned
