Iona Tiny House

Iona Tiny House

Whanganui

Iona Tiny House is 2 hours and 15 minutes from Wellington, 5.5 – 6 hours from Auckland and about 2 hours from New Plymouth.

Set in Whanganui on the banks of the Whanganui River, Iona Tiny House is a relaxing and tranquil haven, whilst at the same time, just a 5-10 minutes walk to the restaurants and bars on Victoria Ave. A stay here offers something a little different from our usual remote locations - a true 'city escape'.

A labour of love by the owner, a local architect, Iona Tiny House is completely unique. Made from the timber hull of the historic vessel, Iona, every luxury and modern convenience has been considered. There’s a cedar hot tub for an outdoor soak under the stars and a tiny wood burner for cosying up on a winter's night. A queen-size bed is positioned perfectly for watching the river meander past. 

Iona Tiny House is a place to relax, be comfortable, read, walk, sit with a glass of wine or soak in the hot tub with your beloved, watching the pretty city lights.

Iona Tiny House has been recognised with a Silver Qualmark rating from Tourism New Zealand.

FROM $285 p/n

Children aged 12+ only

  • Sleeps 3

A $65 Single Night Surcharge applies on top of the nightly rate when booking a single night. You will need to add this charge during the booking process. The calendar below will specify where one-night bookings are allowed.

Directions

Iona Tiny House

What time is check-in and check-out?

What are the bed and bedding arrangements?

What are the kitchen and cooking facilities?

What are the bathroom facilities?

Is there power?

Is there mobile phone reception?

What sort of heating is there?

Can I have an outdoor fire?

What is glamping like in winter?

Can children stay at Iona Tiny House?

Can I bring my dog?

How private and remote is Iona Tiny House?

What is the access like and where do I park my car?

Will I come across creatures and critters during my stay?

What do I need to bring?

Are there any safety considerations?

Can I book for one night only?

Minimum Nights

Rates

Gift Vouchers

3. Guest cancellations and date changes

4. Host Cancellations

5. safety and hazards

6. pets

7. GST

8. conditions of occupancy and conduct

9. Complaints

10. Liability

11. Gift vouchers

12. Law

13. Changes to booking conditions

14. Authority to sign

  • Eating and Drinking

    Iona Tiny House is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the facilities provided in your kitchen. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

    A short stroll sees you in lower Victoria Avenue, the dining heart of Whanganui. Take your pick of restaurants and bars in the beautiful heritage environment – you'll find your host's favourites in the in-house guide. The art deco Embassy Theatre is right there with a good movie selection, and live music venues Lucky or the monthly Musician’s Club are in close walking distance too. Iona’s outdoor fire is fun, and there's a complete kitchen with all the equipment you need to cook. If you’re simply too relaxed to go anywhere, order a platter box for two from our favourite local foodies Graze and Soiree.

    The nearest supermarket for supplies is the Countdown on the corner of Cnr Taupo Quay & Wilson Street, - a 15-minute stroll away.

  • Things to do

    Set close to the action (just a 5-10 minute walk to Whanganui's old town, Victoria Ave) Iona Tiny House is near enough to enjoy the action of the town but has the feel of a tranquil riverside retreat.

    Whanganui is an old town steeped in Maori and Pakeha history. Whether you’re a visitor to New Zealand or a Kiwi needing a recharge, there's plenty to discover. From the iconic Sarjeant Gallery to the Maori influence at nearby St Pauls Church, to the excellent cafes, restaurants and boutique shops - there's something for everyone!

    For active relaxers, enjoy the popular ‘round the bridges’ stroll, book a cruise upriver on the historic paddle steamer ‘Waimarie’ (pronounce Wai-mah-ree-ay) or get onto the river (you'll find information in the in-house guide). The tiny house sits right on the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail – so bring your bikes, or hire an e-bike at the cycle hire opposite the house and explore.

    For relaxer relaxers, just while away the hours on the deck, watching the river flow by and taking in the vibe of this uniquely designed and crafted little building..soak in the hot tub, watch the sunset and dive into Iona’s carefully curated book and magazine collection.

  • Your Hosts

    When Hamish McDouall, born and bred in Wanganui, brought Aucklander Elinor back to his home town, magic started to happen. Two kids, a mayoralty, and a thriving architectural practice later, they are absolute converts to small city life. They love the ease, the way the community runs on relationships and trust and seeing Whanganui find its feet as a creative, historic town.

    Elinor has enjoyed every minute of the Iona journey and is looking forward to seeing others fall in love too. ‘Welcome to Iona, and welcome home to our beautiful town on the awa’.

Testimonials

  • "

    Iona Tiny House has been thoughtfully designed and beautifully crafted. It is within easy walking distance of many of Whanganui's attractions, yet it is also really private and peaceful.

    "

    Dael Williams - 29 Oct 2024

    1 / 12

  • "

    The absolute perfect place for our wedding anniversary 'staycation'. We loved being so close to the river; you can't help but relax and unplug in this beautiful spot! The Iona is such an asset to Whanganui. Thank you Elinor!

    "

    Sarah Narine - 20 Sep 2024

    2 / 12

  • "

    Lovely, peaceful spot with great views out over the river. So handy to town, but it feels like you are miles away. Comfy bed, toasty fire, a great shower, and all the kitchen things you need for a great stay.

    "

    Denise Timblick - 31 Jul 2024

    3 / 12

  • "

    A beautiful house in a serene and romantic setting.

    "

    Gina Salapata - 16 Jul 2024

    4 / 12

  • "

    Nice relaxing spot on the edge of the river. Perfect relaxation spot!

    "

    Michael O'Neill - 09 Jul 2024

    5 / 12

  • "

    A fabulous urban retreat with such a great story behind its evolution!

    "

    Alexandra Foley - 09 Jul 2024

    6 / 12

  • "

    We had a wonderful stay at Iona Tiny House. It's such a unique place, and the attention to detail in the design is just brilliant. We watched the sunset across the river, enjoyed the spa, and cosied up by the fire. A perfect romantic break to celebrate 32 years together. Thank you.

    "

    Pam Coleman - 01 Jul 2024

    7 / 12

  • "

    Absolutely awesome place to stay.

    "

    Muriel Mckenzie - 25 Jun 2024

    8 / 12

  • "

    This was our second stay at Iona Tiny House, and it didn't disappoint. We had a wonderful time and loved the uniqueness of this glamping spot. So close to town yet a world away. We have recommended it to friends, and some have stayed!

    "

    Nicola Voullaire - 20 May 2024

    9 / 12

  • "

    A wonderful spot to relax. Close to the city but feels remote. Everything you need for a complete rest!

    "

    Paula Feathers - 14 May 2024

    10 / 12

  • "

    Had a great weekend in an amazing setting, with a bit of difference.

    "

    Nik Ordish - 14 May 2024

    11 / 12

  • "

    Great setting, original accommodation, and very clean.

    "

    - 02 May 2024

    12 / 12

Browse the Collection

Beautiful tents surrounded by nature, quirky cabins with packets of personality and secret hideaways that offer something completely unique... Explore the other places in our collection.

Find your escape