Escape the noise and reconnect with Nature.
Welcome to The Big House! A perfect place for rest & reflection, quality time with family & friends or as a refuge after an adventure in the Abel Tasman National Park.
Originally built in 1970, the property was completely rebuilt in 1998. This renovation added two-story decks, a kitchen, and two extra bedrooms to create the spacious house it is today.
Located within The Community Farm—an intentional community existing for over 40 years—this is a place where nature is not just a view, but a way of life. We invite you to experience a true eco-retreat. Here, you will sleep to the sound of the river, bathe or shower under the open sky, and live in harmony with a community dedicated to connection, sustainability and slow living.
Marahau’s nourishing facilities
You can make your stay even more pleasant by visiting the Marahau community's soulful gathering spaces (More info in Guest Guide at arrival).
Fire Sauna: Warm your body and spirit in our traditional fire-heated sauna. It is the perfect antidote to the winter chill and a profound way to detox and relax. Available for half price for guests of the Big House.
The Barn – The Creative Hub: A rustic, open-air space serving locally roasted Tuatara Coffee Beans and offering a quiet zone for writing, reading, or meditation. It is a place to slow down and let the rhythm of nature guide your day.
Abel Tasman Yoga: Just meters from the entrance to New Zealand's Abel Tasman National Park you will find a purpose built, well equipped Yoga Studio. Ingrid Wagner offers classes & workshops worthwhile joining.
River Access: Just a 2-minute walk to the Marahau River. Dip in the water, or simply sit by the bank and listen to the flow.
Location of the Big House:
This sanctuary is nestled in the beautiful Marahau Valley, surrounded by native bush, organic gardens and fruit trees, bird song, and the gentle rush of the river.
Abel Tasman Gateway: Only a 5-10 minute drive to the entrance of Abel Tasman National Park.
Community Living: Homes here are separated by gardens, not fences. You are a guest in a living, breathing ecosystem. Please respect the privacy of our long-term neighbors and the quiet rhythm of the valley.
The Big House Eco-Ethos
We are committed to minimal impact and maximum connection.
Sustainability: From our composting toilets to our commitment to reducing waste and eliminating single-use plastics, we aim to make choices to support & protect this precious land.
True connection: There are no TVs here. Instead, there are books, decks, rivers, and saunas.
Quiet & Respect: To honor the community and the wildlife, we ask for quiet hours after 10:00 PM and no parties. This is a place for restoration, not recreation.
Supplies: The nearest full supermarkets are in Motueka (25 mins). We encourage you to bring your own supplies to minimize travel and support local sourcing.
What to expect during your stay at the Big House:
Deep Rest: Comfortable beds with heating and electric blankets available to keep you warm amidst the cool Tasman winters.
Outdoor Shower & Bath Experience: Covered outdoor shower and bath(s).
(re-)Connection with Nature: Surrounded by native plants and the sounds of the valley, this is a sacred space for cleansing and connection. Imagine washing away the day's stress while feeling the fresh air and hearing the birds.
Eco-Ethos: Next to a flush toilet in the bathroom, there an additional compost toilet available. The waste is transformed into nutrient-rich soil to feed our native trees and fruit gardens.
Shared Living: Access to a fully equipped kitchen, with a fire stove & oven (next to a gas stove & oven). Cook your meals using local produce, share stories with your Whānau, or enjoy a quiet breakfast on the deck overlooking the valley ridge line.
Why Choose a stay at the Big House?
If you seek a luxury hotel with room service, this is not for you. But if you crave an authentic, earth-connected experience where you can bathe outdoors under the stars, sweat in a fire sauna, drink good quality coffee nearby, and wake up to the sound of the Marahau River, you have found your home.
