🌿 Manu Waiata (Birdsong) – Off-Grid Tiny-House Escape, Allandale
Tucked into regenerating native bush in Allandale, the next bay around from Governors Bay at the head of Lyttelton Harbour, Manu Waiata (Birdsong) offers a tranquil off-grid retreat just 25 minutes from central Christchurch. This charming loft-style tiny house invites you to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the simple pleasures of sustainable living — close enough to the city for convenience, yet far enough to feel completely away from it all.
🏡 The Space
Designed for rest and retreat, this self-contained one-bedroom (loft) tiny house is fully solar-powered and surrounded by birdsong and native flora.
Inside, you’ll find:
A cosy open-plan living area with a compact kitchen and dining space
A comfortable loft bedroom with a queen mattress, accessed by stairs
A separate bathroom building with a hot shower, outdoor bath, and composting toilet — all part of the authentic off-grid experience
There’s no Wi-Fi at Manu Waiata — intentionally. This is your chance to truly disconnect, breathe deeply, and let the sounds of nature replace the buzz of notifications. Bring a good book, a journal, or simply enjoy the quiet company of the bush.
🐦 Nature & Birdlife
The property lives up to its name — Manu Waiata means Birdsong. You’ll be visited by some of Aotearoa’s most beloved native birds, including:
- The Kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon), often seen gliding between the trees
- The Tūī, whose melodic calls echo through the valley
- The friendly Pīwakawaka (fantail), flitting playfully around the deck
Their presence brings the bush to life and makes mornings here especially magical.
🌿 Relax & Explore
Step outside and immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscape. A private bush walk begins right on the property, winding through regenerating native trees and connecting directly to the Living Springs walking trail — perfect for a morning stroll or evening wander.
From the property, you can also:
Explore nearby walking and mountain-biking tracks
Follow the foreshore path into Governors Bay for a meal at the local restaurant and bar
Visit Lyttelton and Diamond Harbour, both about 15 minutes away by car
After a day’s exploring, relax by the outdoor firepit (season permitting) or soak under the stars in the outdoor bath.
🌞 Off-Grid Living
Manu Waiata runs on solar power, with a backup generator available if required. Water is treated and supplied from the nearby camp. Guests are encouraged to embrace the rhythm of off-grid life and use power thoughtfully.
✨ A peaceful hideaway for nature-lovers, eco-travellers, and anyone seeking calm, simplicity, and a digital detox — Manu Waiata (Birdsong) is an authentic off-grid escape close to the city yet wonderfully removed from it all.
Please Note: The property has heights without railings higher than 90cm around areas of the deck.
