A Cottagecore Escape in the Heart of New Zealand’s Countryside
Step into a fairytale—New Zealand’s countryside invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience life at a gentler pace.
New Zealand’s rural landscapes, with their sprawling green hills, blooming gardens, and charming villages, are the perfect place for a cottagecore escape. It’s a place where time moves slower, and nature feels like an old friend. Whether you're seeking rustic cottages tucked in quiet valleys or village life full of artisanal food and craftwork, New Zealand's countryside is a living dream of simpler times.
This guide will take you through some of the most picturesque locations where you can stay, explore, and embrace the slower rhythms of rural life.
Where to Stay: Cozy Cottages & Rural Retreats
1. The Lavender Cottage – Waikato Region
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Waikato Region, this charming, lavender-filled cottage offers a peaceful retreat complete with a garden-to-table breakfast and homemade preserves. Enjoy early mornings picking flowers and afternoons baking scones while overlooking endless green fields.
What makes it special: Self-sustaining with its own vegetable patch and bees, the Lavender Cottage is the perfect place for those looking to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.
Highlight: Join a hands-on workshop to make your own lavender-scented soaps or candles.
2. The Farmhouse – Taranaki
A cozy stone farmhouse surrounded by sheep paddocks and native forests. The farmhouse is a true escape into the heart of nature, where you can spend your days wandering the vast countryside, reading by a roaring fire, and enjoying hearty, home-cooked meals with fresh produce from the farm.
What makes it special: The property’s own vegetable garden, farm animals, and a community of passionate locals make this stay feel like a home away from home.
Highlight: Take part in a traditional baking class and create homemade pies, bread, and jams, just like in the old days.
3. The Garden Cottage – Bay of Islands
This delightful little cottage is set in a private garden surrounded by fruit trees, with the sound of birdsong filling the air. The Garden Cottage’s simplicity and natural charm make it the perfect base for a countryside retreat.
What makes it special: A great spot for those who want to spend their days sipping tea on the porch, writing in a journal, and exploring the nearby forests and beaches.
Highlight: Pick your own fruit from the orchard for breakfast and enjoy the quiet hum of nature at your doorstep.
Where to Explore: Nature Walks & Scenic Countryside
1. Waipoua Forest – Northland
This ancient forest in the heart of the Waipoua Conservation Area is home to some of New Zealand’s most magnificent kauri trees, some over 2,500 years old. Walk the easy, serene tracks surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery. Perfect for those who love connecting with nature and experiencing peace in the midst of an untouched forest.
Highlight: Visit Tane Mahuta, the largest kauri tree in New Zealand. It's a moment of awe that connects you deeply with the natural world.
2. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing – Central North Island
For the more adventurous, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing offers a challenging but breathtaking hike through volcanic landscapes, craters, and alpine meadows. Although it’s one of New Zealand’s more famous hikes, it remains a serene and awe-inspiring experience.
Highlight: The views from the summit, overlooking the turquoise lakes and volcanic craters, are some of the most spectacular in the country. Perfect for nature lovers looking for a bit of a challenge!
3. The Waikato River Trails – Waikato Region
Follow the trails along New Zealand’s longest river through lush farmland, quaint towns, and peaceful forest reserves. This area is known for its stunning countryside views, with plenty of spots to stop for a picnic by the river. Ideal for leisurely cycling or walking.
Highlight: Take a rest in one of the small, picturesque villages along the way for a cup of locally grown coffee and homemade treats.
Where to Connect with Locals: Artisan Shops & Local Markets
1. Te Puke – Bay of Plenty
Known as the "Kiwifruit Capital" of New Zealand, Te Puke is an ideal place to visit if you’re interested in seeing where one of the country’s signature fruits is grown. You’ll find small artisanal shops that sell hand-knitted wool items, locally made pottery, and delicious kiwifruit products.
What to Do: Take a guided tour of a working kiwifruit farm and pick fresh fruit straight from the vine.
Highlight: Stop by the weekly Te Puke Farmers' Market, where you can buy locally made jams, breads, and other delights.
2. The Woolshed Café – Otago Region
A charming café set in a traditional woolshed surrounded by hills and farmland. The Woolshed Café is a favorite among locals, offering hearty, homemade meals made from fresh, local ingredients. It's a great place to connect with Kiwis and experience the farm-to-table movement in the heart of the countryside.
What to Do: Try the famous homemade scones with cream and jam while chatting with friendly locals who often stop in after a long day of work.
Highlight: Take a small farm tour and learn about New Zealand’s sheep farming history.
3. Handcrafted Pottery & Quilts – Christchurch
In Christchurch, visit small studios and workshops where you can see artisans creating hand-thrown pottery, hand-woven baskets, and intricate quilts. These items are perfect souvenirs or keepsakes from your peaceful stay in the countryside.
What to Do: Join a pottery class or quilt-making workshop to learn the craft for yourself.
Highlight: Take home a hand-made piece of pottery as a reminder of your relaxing time in the rural heart of New Zealand.
Embrace the Slow Life
New Zealand’s countryside offers a perfect escape into the world of cottagecore—a world where nature, simplicity, and creativity reign. Whether you're curled up by a wood-burning stove in a cozy cottage, picking fruit in a blooming orchard, or walking through a forest filled with ancient trees, you’ll find the peace and serenity you’ve been yearning for.
This is a place where the past feels alive, and life moves at a pace that invites you to relax, reflect, and create.
