Where is Wild Forest Estate?

On the Kauri Coast in Northland, New Zealand, at 990 Trounson Park Road, Donnellys Crossing. Three kilometres from Trounson Kauri Park, about 25 minutes south of Tāne Mahuta, and roughly 3 hours' drive north of Auckland.

Is Wild Forest Estate suitable for solo travellers?

Yes. All three accommodations work for solo guests, and there is a dedicated Solo Retreat package — see https://www.wildforestestate.com/solo-retreats.

Is Wild Forest Estate suitable for couples?

Yes. All three accommodations are popular with couples, and there is a dedicated Romantic Retreat package — see https://www.wildforestestate.com/romantic-retreats-celebration.

Can I see kiwi in the wild from Wild Forest Estate?

Yes. Guests have around a 40% chance of seeing kiwi at Trounson Kauri Park (3 km away) after dark. The hosts lend a red-light torch and brief you on the kiwi call before you go.

What's the difference between the Hideaway, the Tin Box, and the Tree House?

The Hideaway is a historic 1910 Kauri cottage attached to the main house, streamside, with an outdoor bath and hammock — most comfortable. The Tin Box is a fully off-grid converted shipping container above the forest canopy, with a signature outdoor bath for stargazing — most immersive. The Tree House is built from recycled Kauri in the canopy of the forest, with three decks and an outdoor bath — most magical. All three sleep 2.

How do I book Wild Forest Estate?

Direct booking on the website is preferred: https://www.wildforestestate.com/book-now. Each unit also has its own booking link, and retreats have their own enquiry pages.

How much does a night cost at Wild Forest Estate?

Standard nightly stays use dynamic pricing — check the live booking pages for current rates. Retreat package prices are fixed: NZD $450 / $550 / $650 for a 3-night minimum depending on season.

Are dogs allowed at Wild Forest Estate?

No. Wild Forest Estate is dog-free, for the protection of kiwi in the surrounding sanctuary. Dogs are the leading killer of adult kiwi in Northland.

Are children welcome at Wild Forest Estate?

Children are welcome by special request. Please contact the hosts via https://www.wildforestestate.com/contact-1 before booking.

Is there wifi and mobile signal at Wild Forest Estate?

Wifi is available at the main house. Mobile signal in the area is weak. The off-grid units (Tin Box, Tree House) are set in deep forest — coverage there is limited by design.

Are meals included at Wild Forest Estate?

Meals are not included. Each unit comes stocked with welcome provisions — coffee, tea, salt, pepper, olive oil, popcorn kernels, and fresh drinking water. The Hideaway has a benchtop electric hob and a mini fridge; the Tin Box and Tree House each have an undercover outdoor kitchen with a 4-burner gas hob, Weber BBQ, and chilli bin. The nearest substantial supermarket is in Dargaville, ~40 km south.

Is there parking and EV charging at Wild Forest Estate?

Yes, plenty of parking at the main house, plus a Level 2 EV charger on site for guest use. Wild Forest Estate is one of the only accommodations between Dargaville and Opononi where EV guests can slow-charge overnight while they stay. Mention at booking if you'll be charging so the hosts can brief you on plug type and location on arrival.

Is Wild Forest Estate accessible for guests with mobility needs?

No. The property does not currently have mobility access — the off-grid units in particular involve uneven ground, steps, and forest paths.

Can I buy a gift card for Wild Forest Estate?

Yes. Gift cards are available at https://www.wildforestestate.com/gift-cards.

What's the best time of year to visit Wild Forest Estate?

Wild Forest Estate is open year-round. Summer (December–February) is peak season for the Romantic Retreat. The forest is beautiful in every season. For kiwi behaviour, conditions vary by month — see the full kiwi calendar at https://www.wildforestestate.com/seeing-kiwi-at-trounson-kauri-park.

Joanna's First Solo Retreat

Oct 28

Written By Joanna Wickham

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Joanna Wickham https://www.wildforestestate.com

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