Self sufficient house powered by the sun.

Granite Creek Eco Retreat is an off-grid, self-sufficient home set between Kahurangi National Park and the Tasman Sea. Perched on a knoll at the edge of the park, it offers stunning views, abundant birdlife, spectacular stargazing, and breathtaking sunsets — all creating a powerful sense of peaceful isolation.
The space
I personally built this house recently with the future in mind. Designed to be passive and self-sufficient, it harnesses natural elements to maintain a steady temperature year-round and relies on the sun for heating, electricity, and hot water. When the weather cools, you can fire up the Rayburn wood burner for extra warmth, additional hot water, and the perfect slow-cooked casserole.

A 50 m² deck with stunning views makes outdoor living a pleasure, and the fire bath offers a relaxing soak to end the day.

For walkers, the house is located near the Wangapeka Track and not far from the Oparara Basin, the start of the Heaphy Track, and the Fenian Track. Just down the road are some of the best whitebaiting spots in the country, and it’s less than 10 km from two boat ramps and multiple beach access points — ideal for fishers and surfers alike.

Karamea township is 8 km to the north and offers great food options, including The Dutch Oven Bakery, Vinnies Cafe, The Village Hotel, and The Last Resort. You’ll also find a Four Square, a hardware store, and an information centre that sells fuel.