Solscape

Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula


With a hilltop location fringed by native bush, Solscape’s ecofriendly accommodation includes tepees, bell tents, rammed-earth domes, railway carriages and stylish eco-baches. There’s room for tents and campervans, and simpler cottages are also available. Environmental impact is minimised with solar energy, and organic produce from the permaculture garden is used for meals in the Conscious Kitchen cafe.

Yoga, massage and surfing lessons are all available. Under new owners there's also an increased focus on one-off events like DJ sessions and yoga retreats. Check the website for what's planned.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula attractions

1. Mt Karioi

2.84 MILES

In legend, Mt Karioi (756m), the Sleeping Lady (check out that profile), is the sister to Mt Pirongia. At its base (8km south of Whale Bay), Te Toto Gorge…

2. Old School Arts Centre

3.17 MILES

A community hub, the Old School Arts Centre has changing exhibitions and workshops, including weaving, carving, yoga and storytelling. Movies screen here…

3. Ruapuke Beach

6.14 MILES

Whale Bay marks the end of the sealed road, but a gravel road continues to the wild spans of Ruapuke Beach, 22km from Raglan. It’s dangerous for swimmers…

4. Waireinga

7 MILES

Just past Te Mata (a short drive south of the main Raglan–Hamilton road) is the turn-off to the 55m-high Waireinga, 4km from the main road. From the car…

5. Post Box Gallery

16.37 MILES

This volunteer-run gallery and shop is worth checking out to purchase interesting works and souvenirs from the increasing number of artists and designers…

6. Kawhia Regional Museum & Gallery

16.45 MILES

Kāwhia's modest waterside museum has local history, nautical and Māori art and artefacts, as well as regular art exhibitions. Don't miss the huge fossil…

7. Ocean Beach

16.67 MILES

Four kilometres west of Kāwhia is Ocean Beach and its high, black-sand dunes. Swimming can be dangerous, but one to two hours either side of low tide you…

8. Maketu Marae

17.1 MILES

From Kāwhia Wharf, a track extends along the coast to Maketu Marae, which has an impressively carved meeting house, Auaukiterangi. Two stones here – Hani…