Ngunguru, Northland
Korowai - Ponga Nest is located 20 minutes from Whangārei and 2 hours 20 minutes from Auckland.
Hidden amongst native bush, this elevated cabin sits within the forest canopy, creating the feeling of a secluded treehouse escape. Alongside its sister escape, Nikau Retreat, it offers a peaceful place to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Your journey begins along a winding path through towering ponga ferns, leading to a warm, thoughtfully designed cabin complete with a king bed, skylight for stargazing, kitchenette and bathroom. Large sliding doors open onto the deck, where an outdoor bath overlooks the surrounding bush, while a wood burner keeps the cabin cosy on cooler evenings.
Wake to the sound of tūī, fantails and kererū, with kiwi occasionly heard after dark. Whether you're soaking in the bath or sharing a drink at the outdoor bar leaner, Ponga Nest is designed for doing absolutely nothing at all.
Last updated 10 Aug 2026
Ponga Nest is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the plug-in hotplate and Weber BBQ provided. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.
If you feel like going out, Schnappa Rock Restaurant & Bar and Marina Woodfired Dining in Tutukaka are great options and only a 12 minute drive.
The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is Ngunguru Food Mart, 5 minutes away.
Settle in for a quiet evening with board games by the fire or a soak in the outdoor bath. For those wanting to explore, a short walk through native bush leads down to the Ngunguru River, just 2km away, also a great spot for fishing.
Discover the surrounding region with visits to nearby beaches or take a scenic loop drive from the property through Ngunguru and around to Sandy Bay.
For an unforgettable adventure, join Dive! for diving and snorkelling trips to the Poor Knights Islands, as well as fishing charters.
Your hosts at Ponga Nest are Sean and Vicki.
Sean is a local builder and Vicki a local teacher, and between them, they know the Tutukaka Coast inside out. On the same property is Nikau Retreat, operated by Dean and Paula, who are also part of the Korowai team.
They love the beautiful stretch of coastline they call home, with swimming, fishing, diving, surfing and walking on offer, whatever the weather, thanks to the choice of nearby beaches. They're equally fond of the native bush surrounding Ponga Nest, calm and welcoming, and the ease of having restaurants, shops and cafes just 5 to 10 minutes away.
Most of all, they look forward to welcoming guests and sharing this special corner of Northland with others.
Relax. Unplug. Savour a unique holiday experience. A secret weekend escape.
A family holiday.
Whatever the reason, let nature back in – go glamping!
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