The Ahurewa Eco Retreat – Off Grid Shipping Container Home provides a peaceful, off-grid escape in New Zealand’s Coromandel region. Located just a 2-hour and 40-minute drive from Auckland, 26 minutes from Coromandel Town, and 33 minutes from Whitianga, it immerses guests in solitude. Surrounded by native birds like tui, korimako, and kereru, the retreat offers a chance to reconnect with nature. If guests are lucky, they may hear the calls of kiwi at night, adding to the serene atmosphere. In this remote environment, the retreat delivers a complete escape from the distractions of modern life, allowing guests to truly disconnect.
Sustainable and Self-Sufficient Living : An Off Grid Shipping Container Home
Designed using five 20-foot shipping containers, the Ahurewa Eco Retreat maximizes space with 60 m² of habitable area. The home operates entirely off-grid, relying on solar power and a rainwater collection system for energy and water needs. As a result, the retreat sustains itself independently from external utilities, making it a prime example of sustainable living.
Furthermore, the modular design allows for future expansion. This flexibility ensures the retreat can grow to meet changing needs while maintaining its off-grid integrity.
Durability and Harmony with Nature
The architects chose shipping containers for their durability and resistance to the elements. Elevated on a pier foundation, the containers promote proper drainage and airflow, minimizing environmental impact. The U-shaped layout of the containers wraps around a spacious deck, offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest.
The exterior is painted black, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. This thoughtful design minimizes the visual impact of the structure, allowing it to integrate naturally with its environment. The home feels at one with the landscape, promoting a sense of tranquility and sustainability.
Comfort and Functionality in an Off-Grid Setting
Inside, the Ahurewa Eco Retreat merges comfort with style. Plywood walls with orange accents create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Large windows flood the interior with natural light, framing uninterrupted views of the forest. The design prioritizes energy efficiency while maintaining comfort for its occupants.
Additionally, a floor-to-ceiling bookcase serves as a focal point, reflecting the owner’s love of reading. Smart storage solutions, such as compartments under the beds, keep the space organized and functional despite its compact size.
The retreat also includes a composting toilet and a greywater recycling system, contributing further to its sustainability. By utilizing solar power and collecting rainwater, the retreat reduces reliance on external resources, making it a perfect example of off-grid living in New Zealand.
Living Off the Grid: Practical and Comfortable
Living off the grid at the Ahurewa Eco Retreat is both practical and comfortable. Thanks to the solar power system and rainwater collection, the retreat operates independently, offering a self-sustained lifestyle. Moreover, the home’s energy and water systems require minimal maintenance, making it ideal for both short and long-term stays.
Living off-grid doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. In fact, the Ahurewa Eco Retreat combines modern convenience with sustainable living. This balance lets guests enjoy all the benefits of a traditional home while reducing their environmental footprint.
A Model for Off Grid Shipping Container Home
The Ahurewa Eco Retreat sets an example for an off grid shipping container home in New Zealand. Situated in the remote Mahakirau Forest Estate, the retreat highlights the possibilities of sustainable living with shipping containers. The modular design allows for easy expansion, making it an excellent choice for those seeking off-grid housing.
Additionally, the integration of solar power, rainwater collection, and eco-friendly waste management systems proves that living off the grid is both feasible and comfortable. By repurposing shipping containers, the retreat minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency.
The Ahurewa Eco Retreat demonstrates how off-grid container homes can combine sustainability with modern comfort. Set in the stunning Coromandel region, this eco-friendly retreat serves as a model for those pursuing an alternative, off-grid lifestyle while still enjoying contemporary amenities. It underscores the growing potential of shipping container homes in New Zealand’s sustainable housing
Bookings Can Be Made Here: Canopy Camping
Photos Courtesy Off: Living Big In A Tiny House
