Located on New Zealand’s North Island, Auckland is the largest and most populated city in the country. It offers a vibrant mix of food, art, music, and culture, with exquisite beaches, mountains, and islands within 30 minutes of the urban heart.
Thanks to the sunny climate, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore the dramatic landscapes, volcanoes, and the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Nature lovers tend to flock here as a result, and there are plenty of eco-lodges in Auckland to accommodate them.
This wide variety of unique accommodation in Auckland means you can stay close to nature while enjoying a unique stay in this incredible city.
We’ve put together this list of the best eco-lodges in Auckland to give you an idea of the wide variety of options available. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation rental, or anything in-between, we’ve got you covered.
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Auckland for One Night
Luxurious Tipi Tent at Tanglewood Retreat
The luxurious tipi tent at Tanglewood Retreat is the ideal escape from city life, offering a tranquil nature experience. The tipi is comfortably furnished, with access to a well-equipped communal kitchen and bathroom block.
- Muriwai Beach
- Mokoroa Stream Track
- Goldies Bush Walk
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Why Stay in an Eco-lodge in Auckland?
Over 2 million travelers visit Auckland each year to experience its immense natural beauty. Choosing to stay in an eco-lodge in Auckland is one of the best ways to see everything the city has to offer while staying close to nature and respecting the environment. Whether you choose a cozy wooden cabin, a tiny house, or even a luxurious tipi, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay with a conscience.
You’ll be safe in the knowledge that your visit will have the smallest impact on the environment possible. Not to mention that many of the eco-friendly options offer you the chance to stay in some of the most unique accommodations in Auckland.
What is an Eco-lodge?
Eco-lodges are accommodations that are committed to minimizing the impact of their operations on the planet. While not all eco-lodges will employ the same methods to reduce their environmental impact, they all share a commitment to do what they can to be more eco-friendly.
In addition to things like recycling or composting, eco-lodges might also aim to save energy by using renewable energy sources like solar power, wind power, or even hydropower. Using no-flush toilets, collecting rainwater, and making the most of greywater are some further ways eco-lodges can minimize their footprint.
Eco-lodges will also serve local communities by supporting small businesses and promoting their services. Some also provide opportunities for travelers to discover local culture and heritage.
Luxurious Tipi Tent at Tanglewood Retreat
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Back-to-nature escape
- > The thrill of camping without the hassle
Eco-friendly private country space
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Self-contained and private studio
- > Built from natural materials and recycled fittings
Bethells Luxury Retreat
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Luxurious glamping retreat
- > Spacious timber and canvas tent
Matakana Vineyard Eco Cabin
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Peaceful cabin in an idyllic setting
- > Located in on the area’s oldest vineyards
EcoInn
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Nature escape with animals, a garden and a lake
- > Rustic mountain lodge
Eco-friendly tiny house near beach & CBD
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Beautiful tiny house in a great location
- > Well-equipped and eco-friendly
The Snug
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Rest, reflect and create in nature
- > Tucked away in a subtropical rainforest
Looking for other types of accommodation? Check out our guide to Where to Stay in Auckland!
Top 10 Eco-lodges in Auckland
We’ve put together this list of the best eco-lodges in Auckland so you can choose one that best fits your travel style and budget. Each eco-lodge offers a comfortable and authentic experience while respecting the environment and local communities.
Overall Best Eco-lodge in Auckland – Luxurious Tipi Tent at Tanglewood Retreat
- $$
- 2 guests
- Back-to-nature escape
- The thrill of camping without the hassle
Tanglewood provides a peaceful nature retreat just 30 minutes outside Auckland. The tipi is spacious and features a queen-sized bed abd rustic furnishings. Guests also have access to a communal kitchen and a washroom.
Tanglewood Retreat uses 100% renewable energy. Composting and greywater systems are in place, and rainwater is collected for non-potable use. Tanglewood plants a native tree for every booking made at the retreat.
The tipi is set on 180 acres of beautiful wilderness that offers plenty of nature trails to explore. One of the most popular is the Mokoroa Stream Track, which ends at a gorgeous waterfall. Muriwai Beach is just 10 minutes away by car.
Best Value Eco-lodge in Auckland – Eco-friendly private country space
- $
- 2 guests
- Self-contained and private studio
- Built from natural materials and recycled fittings
There are some great hostels in Auckland, but how about this for budget-friendly accommodation! The eco-friendly studio overlooks a wetland that is popular with local birdlife, as well as a rarely used rail line. The studio is attached to the main house but is entirely independent and private, with an outdoor kitchen area and small garden space.
The studio makes use of a rainwater harvesting system, so it’s important to use water sparingly. Addtitionally, no chemicals or non-biodegradable items are put down the drains. You may also come across a cat and some sheep on the property, as well as three chickens who were rescued from battery life.
Beaches and parks are within easy driving distance of the studio. Gibbs Farm Park should be on your list of things to see – an exhibit of large, modern sculptures.
Budget Tip: Dorms in Auckland start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Best Eco-lodge for Couples – Bethells Luxury Retreat
- $$
- 2 guests
- Luxurious glamping retreat
- Spacious timber and canvas tent
Bethells Luxury Retreat is a unique experience for couples looking for a comfortable break in nature. The large canvas and wood tent boasts with a queen-sized bed, cooking facilities, and a spacious deck.
Solar panels provide electricity for the tent, and rainwater is collected for non-potable use. In addition, guests are provided with eco-friendly toiletries.
Guests can explore the rugged Bethells Beach in West Auckland, which features walking trails, wineries, beaches and breweries. After a day of exploring, guests can relax in the outdoor bath or around the fire pit.
Most Ecological Eco-lodge in Auckland – Matakana Vineyard Eco Cabin
- $$
- 2 guests
- Peaceful cabin in an idyllic setting
- Located in on the area’s oldest vineyards
Matakana Vineyard Eco Cabin is a private and secluded retreat set in an olive grove on one of the area’s oldest vineyards. From the wraparound deck to the mezzanine sleeping area, the cabin is the perfect spot to relax in nature.
The self-contained cabin runs entirely on solar-power aside from gas used for cooking and heating water. There’s a composting toilet in the bathroom block a short distance from the cabin to reduce water usage.
Visitors can explore the beaches, walking trails, and gorgeous vineyards. The surrounding area also offers boutique cinemas, restaurants, and breweries. At night, the sky above the cabin is any stargazer’s dream.
Best Eco-lodge for Families Visiting Auckland – EcoInn
- $
- Up to 10 guests
- Nature escape with animals, a garden and a lake
- Rustic mountain lodge
The EcoInn is a rustic retreat that sleeps up to 10 people in 5 comfortable bedrooms. The cozy timber cabin is well-equipped with everything needed for a pleasant family retreat, including a crib, highchair, children’s toys, and books.
The cabin uses 100% renewable energy, largely supplied by solar panels and hydro turbines. A wood-burning stove provides heating for the lodge, and recycling bins are provided.
There’s plenty to see and do at The EcoInn to keep the entire family happy. Indoors, there’s a games room with table tennis, foosball, and a pool table. Outside, you can go rowing on the lake, kayaking, and swimming.
Best Eco-lodge for a Weekend in Auckland – Eco-friendly tiny house near beach & CBD
- $
- 2 guests
- Beautiful tiny house in a great location
- Well-equipped and eco-friendly
This eco-friendly tiny house offers a compact and comfortable escape close to the city and great beaches. The house includes a private deck area and a mezzanine sleeping space to artfully use the limited floor space.
In addition to the economical use of space, the tiny house features a composting toilet to reduce water usage. There’s also a gas hob to reduce energy consumption.
The beach at Point Chevalier is just a stone’s throw away from the property. The main beach is 10 to 15 minutes away on foot, and there’s a double sea kayak available for guests to enjoy. The Central Business District is a short drive away for those wanting to explore Auckland.
Eco-lodge with an Epic Location – The Snug
- $
- 2 guests
- Rest, reflect and create in nature
- Tucked away in a subtropical rainforest
The Snug is a simple tiny house tucked beneath the foliage of sub-tropical rainforest in the Waitakere Ranges. There’s no TV or phone reception, so The Snug is perfect for those wishing to get away from it all (although wifi is available).
The wooden cabin has very few large energy-hungry appliances and uses a composting toilet to minimize its environmental impact. In addition, the cleaning products in the cabin are all natural.
Piha, one of New Zealand’s top surfing beaches, is a short drive away. The deck and hammock offer plenty of space to kick back, relax, and enjoy the tranquil setting.
Best Eco-lodge for Views – Kaipara Views Eco Lodge
- $
- 2 guests
- Cosy, comfortable stay in the country
- Hillside location with spectacular views
Kaipara Views Eco Lodge sits just north of Auckland and offers a well-equipped retreat in an idyllic setting. The house is completely private and offers stunning views of the landscape from every window.
The house’s remote location means less noise and less light pollution, which makes for some spectacular stargazing. Kaipara Hills has been built using sustainable materials and is equipped with eco-friendly toiletries and organic cotton linen. Wind turbines and solar panels provide power for the house.
Mountain bike enthusiasts will love it here with hills and valleys aplenty to explore. Some of Auckland’s best walking trails are within easy reach of the house, as is the magnificent Gibbs Farm with its enormous sculptures. From thermal pools to waterfalls and wineries, the area is bursting with experiences to be had.
Best Eco-lodge for Long-term Travellers – Doris Jean Retreat
- $
- 6 guests
- Charming tiny house
- Valley views and spectacular surfing
Doris Jean Retreat sits on the rugged West Coast of Auckland. The tiny home includes a full kitchen, two bedrooms, and a large sea-facing deck. There’s an additional cabana that can accommodate three more guests, should you need more space.
Doris Jean Retreat uses a tank water supply for general use, and greywater to water the garden. A waterless composting toilet keeps water usage down, while energy is conserved through the use of a gas hob in the kitchen and a wood-burning stove to provide heating.
Visit the nearby black sand beach or head to Piha Beach – a top surf spot. You’re also just five minutes from various scenic hiking trails, and within driving distance of the Kitekite Falls. At the end of a fun day of adventuring, kick back on the deck and enjoy a magical sunset.
Best Eco-lodge for Honeymooners – Te Papa Eco Cottage
- $$
- 2 guests
- Hilltop perch over Waikato River
- Built from recycled materials
Te Papa Eco Lodge is a spacious one-room retreat perched on a hill overlooking the Waikato River. The rustic cottage offers all the essentials, as well as luxurious extras like a king-sized bed with a view and a romantic outdoor bath.
The cottage is off-grid, obtaining energy from solar panels that power the lights, fridge, and charging ports for devices. The hob in the kitchen is gas, which aids in minimizing power usage. A wood fire heats the cottage in cooler weather.
Guests at the cottage can explore the farm or the nearby wetland where they can try their hand at catching whitebait – a native delicacy. Kariotahi Beach, a wild black sand beach, is within easy reach, as is the Manukau Heads lighthouse.
Don’t Forget Your Auckland Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Eco-lodges in Auckland
Most visitors to Auckland are attracted to the city by the immense natural beauty and the contrasting culture, food, and art. To complement these top attractions, there’s a whole load of diverse and unique accommodation for visitors to choose from.
Whatever you want to see or do in Auckland, our list of eco-lodges should have something that ticks all your boxes. From fully-equipped family homesteads to staying in a tipi, there’s plenty of unique accommodation in Auckland to choose from to suit your tastes and budget.
- Check out our Backpacking New Zealand guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in New Zealand guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of New Zealand.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip in South Island New Zealand.
- Gear up for your next adventure with a stay in Australia’s finest eco-lodges.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
