ABOUT
Welcome to Earthbridge, a private rural delight hidden in the scenic Maratoto Valley. The very heart of nature, a lovingly handcrafted, peaceful haven.
We offer an inspirational artistic space, where just being is OK. Breathe in fresh country air, soak up the quiet & relax into our all natural retreat. Cosy wood fire in winter, or sun capturing conservatory all year round. Ease into wonderfully soft cotton sheets.
Enjoy organic coffee & milk, leaf tea & local ingredients continental breakfast. 2 hours drive from Auckland airport.
The 90 m2 cottage has three bedrooms, two with queen beds separated by the third room with a single bed which is also a cozy library. Hundertwasser inspired tiling in both bathrooms adds a vibrant air. Wood, earth and stone features create a feeling of being close to nature. Our eco cottage was designed "off the grid "a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Wood fires, underfloor heating and a sunny conservatory keep the cottage cozy at all times.
OUR FEATURES
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Bountiful Breakfast
Organic milk and yogurt to compliment homemade muesli, and home preserved fruit. Fresh bread, homemade jams and honey , plus free range eggs round out a healthy delicious breakfast.
Vibrant Garden
Parts of our extensive fruit tree filled organic gardens are available to explore. For those staying longer we are happy to host a tour.Our gardens are based on a permaculture design philosophy. We endeavor to have fresh fruits and vegetables all year round.
"a seed sown is a field harvested"
River Access / Guiding
A ten minute walk gets you to the Maratoto river. As it gurgles its way down the valley it provides many private swimming holes for your enjoyment during the hot summer months.
For those staying longer we offer levels of guidance into the wilds.
Private Conservatory
Adjoining the cottage is a sun drenched sheltered conservatory. With large windows and clear roof, the sun stays in and the weather out. Wide elevated views of the subtropical rain forests of the North Island make this the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
Cozy Library
Our cozy library has comfortable seating for two. With an extensive range of books for your reading enjoyment and views down the valley.
Outside Bath
Wood fired, fits two snugly. Cast iron bath with a wooden floor to protect your posteriors. Warm your soul while gazing up at the milky way. Perfect end to the day.
Destress, join the slow cook movement.
GALLERY
Beautiful sunset view from earthbridge
View of the maratoto rock from Earthbridge
Maratoto river clear water, bush lined, tumbled stone
THINGS TO DO
Mountain Biking
Just off the Hauraki Rail Trail, rideable access for e-bikes and the fitter riders try #intothemaratoto to add a challenge.
Ride the 20k return to find cafe coffee.
Summer Swimming
Summer brings river pools within walking distance. Warm flowing clear clean water warmed on river rocks. Many enjoy finding these hidden delights.
Outstanding Landscape Features
Maratoto Rock stands up above the valley -the basalt core of an old volcano, reminiscent of times old and flashes of LOTR.
Historic Sites
Old gold mine relics and tunnels, mostly all covered by time and the lush New Zealand Forest. Our Valley offers an insite into that time.
Walking / Exploring
Rain/Cloud Forest
Lush, botanically diverse.
Waterfalls, Giant Ferns, Palms and delicate orchids all feature in their way.
Rock Climbing
Bring your own gear base your team here.
OUR STORY
After a mid life change in 2001 we traveled, arriving with a young family we set about creating a new place to be. After lots of thinking, planting, building and many many new friends we settled in the Maratoto valley.
We are proud to work with nature, we have a spring fed water supply from a protected rain forest. Permaculture and organics feature in our daily lives. We are self sufficient in many fruit, vegetables and meats. Also the many plants we grow, we sustainably harvest which brings a natural balance to our diet. We are off grid generating all our own electrical and heat requirements from solar, water, wind and sustainably harvested wood products.
Philosophically we are at the green end of the scale. University trained in botany, ecology and horticulture we had spent many years building towards our current eco-sustainable lifestyle, a move away from our production horticulture background.
5.0 out of 5 · 23 Google reviews
Mary Ward
★★★★★
My friends and I had a really lovely stay here! The accommodation was amazing. The house is so well done, with really beautiful designs and features throughout. It's a quiet and calm area tucked away from the world. You really feel one with the nature and beauty, both outside the house and in! We really enjoyed our stay and are hoping to stay again soon!
2 years ago
Mere Pasina
★★★★★
Truly a Piece of Paradise! The stunning views & cozy home (with beautiful details) made it an amazing getaway! The continental breakfast was delicious & we enjoyed our regular dips at the water hole. Amazingly we did not miss our digital devices. Thank you Tim for your warm hospitality! Our stay there has been memorable & we have welcomed 2021 with a bang! Please give Jake (dog) a belly rub from us 😊. Thank you again!!
5 years ago
Jules Savieti
★★★★★
After reading the reviews of Earthbridge, I knew we’d found the perfect place for our little girl’s post first birthday wind-down: surrounded by nature, unobstructed view of the sky (because Twinkle Twinkle Little Star), and sourdough bread (her favourite). We got all of that and so much more! We stepped into a lovingly and consciously built space that we couldn’t help but to feel inspired. I especially loved the tile work, fireplace, library, stunning view from our bedroom window, and the cosy (and very clean) sheets! My wee family’s chuffed to bits that we’ve discovered this gem of a place that’s allowed us an experience that’s going to be unlocked as a core memory in the future. Also, I reckon we’ve just started a new family tradition here—the birthday sourdough!
Our first off-grid stay has been relaxing, refreshing, motivating, and non-intimidating because Tim’s a fantastic, welcoming, and friendly host. Thanks for the awesome crash course in off-grid living, Tim. And not to forget Vivienne who’s super helpful and easy to communicate with. Cheers, Tim and team! We hope to see you again soon.
3 years ago
SOME MORE REVIEWS
Lin-Jing
April 2018
I had the most unforgettable experience here at this solar/turbine/water powered place. The photos do not do it justice because the place is stunning. The house is situated quite high which gave us a wide view of the mountains, and their organic breakfast was so delicious. Best accommodation I’ve been to so far on airbnb and would most definitely come back again. 10/10