Summary: Tucked into a farm setting, River Road Retreat 2 is surrounded by oak trees, with stunning views of Pareora Gorge. Wake to the sounds of livestock and local fauna, enjoy a coffee on the deck overlooking riverbeds, or explore Māori rock drawings and lush bush trails. This escape is only a short drive from Lake Tekapo’s activities like skiing and hot pools; this retreat offers a blend of relaxation and adventure in Maungati.
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The Space: River Road Retreat 2 by Tiny Away offers a distinctive getaway atop a hill in Maungati, South Island, New Zealand. It’s a 50-minute drive from Lake Tekapo, over a paddock with views of the Pareora River valley. It’s close to unique attractions like Tekapo Springs, the Dark Sky Project, Caroline Bay, Mt Dobson, and Lake Pukaki for visitors keen on experiencing the natural outdoors and stellar night skies.
A cozy 139-square-foot tiny home with easy access to water, split air conditioning, a kitchenette, cooking equipment, and excellent bathroom facilities. These amenities include an eco-friendly cassette toilet, hand basin, and shower (gas heated for hot showers)
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you're booking for a group, we also have 3 other holiday homes called " River Road Retreat 1, 3 & 4" respectively, available with 24 hours' notice. These tiny houses are powered by a generator, with a slight chance of noise during operation.
Guest Access: Guests will have access to our cozy tiny home and the surrounding areas. The farm is restricted, but guests have access to a track connecting them to a wilderness area with plenty of bird life, the odd wallaby, and a few wild deer.
Please keep a safe distance from our farm animals and pets, as they can become easily agitated. We have three ultra-gorgeous, very friendly dogs who love meeting people. There won’t be any livestock nearby the tiny homes, so guests can enjoy a peaceful stay without interruptions.
Additionally, we provide clean drinking water, so guests don’t need to worry about basic water needs. Braziers are available, and a BBQ can be provided on request for outdoor cooking.
The Neighborhood: River Road Retreat 2 by Tiny Away is positioned within the engaging locality of Maungati - South Island, New Zealand, only a 50-minute drive from Lake Tekapo. River sounds and rich, earthy scents of the untamed wilderness surround this area. It offers an authentic immersion in nature’s side. Here, the environment dictates the pace, inviting visitors to adapt to the slow beat of New Zealand's great outdoors.
Local highlights include the Dark Sky Project, Caroline Bay, Mt Dobson, Tekapo Springs, and Lake Pukaki. Each destination offers an intimate way to experience the region, from alpine views to coastal spots and stargazing.
Getting Around: By car: - From Christchurch to Timaru, it is a 180-kilometer drive in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. - From Tekapo, reach Timaru with a short 50-minute drive. - From Oamaru to Timaru, it is an hour’s journey by car. - Accessible with both 2WD and 4WD vehicles.
By public transport:
- Begin your journey from Christchurch by taking a direct bus or coach service to Timaru. - From Tekapo and Oamaru, regional bus services are available. - On arrival, local taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available for convenient local transportation.
Other Things to Note: - Wifi is not available - Pets not allowed - No unregistered guests or visitors are allowed - Smoking is allowed in certain areas on the property - Mobile reception has good signals for all Telco companies - Braziers are available, and a BBQ can be provided on request for outdoor cooking. - We also ask guests not to feed farm animals, as they are on specific diets for their health - We would like to advise guests that longer stays or later check-outs will incur an additional charge
Important note:
- We have cows, sheep, and farm dogs on the farm as well as a nearby recycling center. - For stays of 5 nights or more, an additional cleaning fee will be collected to help maintain our cassette toilet and ensure a clean and fresh experience for all guests. We appreciate your understanding.
Interaction with Guests: Guests will enjoy your own private space but we are always happy to chat with you.
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Amenities
Kitchen
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
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Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Maungati
Maungati is home to this holiday home. South Canterbury Museum and Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Botanical Gardens and Pleasant Point Museum and Railway.
Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden - 25 min drive - 22.4 km
Getting around
Timaru Station - 25 min drive
Timaru (TIU-Richard Pearse) - 38 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is River Road Retreat 2 by Tiny Away pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at River Road Retreat 2 by Tiny Away?
As of 12 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at River Road Retreat 2 by Tiny Away on 30 May, 2026 start from S$107, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at River Road Retreat 2 by Tiny Away?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at River Road Retreat 2 by Tiny Away?
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
What time is check-out at River Road Retreat 2 by Tiny Away?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is River Road Retreat 2 by Tiny Away located?
Situated in Maungati, this holiday home is within 12 miles (20 km) of Botanic Gardens, Botanical Gardens and Timaru Public Hospital. Aigantighe Art Gallery and South Canterbury Museum are also within 12 miles (20 km).
About the host
Hosted by Tiny Away
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests