Maunga Iti

Covid-19 update

Our campsites are open and operating safely at this time.

Please rest assured that if you do book a stay and a move back to a higher Alert Level means we have to close, we will postpone or refund your stay.

Tutukaka Coast

Maunga Iti, meaning 'little hills' in Maori, is a large bush block just inland from the stunning Tutukaka coastline. At an easy 2 3/4 hour drive from Auckland, this delectable slice of kiwi paradise makes the perfect escape for weary city folk looking to recharge and relax.

Maunga Iti is owned by Stefan and Ira Seitzer, who have spent the last 25+ years creating a private bushland retreat, complete with bush tracks, a pristine freshwater stream and native birds.

The luxury tent is perfectly positioned on the top of a small hill, with dreamy views out over bushland to the ocean and islands beyond. The interior incorporates hand-crafted furniture and a queen-sized bed with Egyptian cotton sheets and natural bedding. A wood-burning tent stove makes the space warm and cosy. Access from the back of the tent takes you straight out to your enclosed ensuite bathroom and camp kitchen with on tap hot water.

An outdoor bath is set at the front of the deck, perfectly positioned for taking in the amazing views out toward the Hen and Chicken Islands.

At night, enjoy a glass of wine and some toasted marshmallows over the brazier coals... When it's warm, sleep with the tent open, and soak up the sounds of the bush and the view of the moonlight on the ocean.

FROM $290 p/n

Adults Only

Sleeps 3
Winter Escape

A $75 Single Night Surcharge applies on top of the nightly rate when booking a single night. You will need to add this charge during the booking process. The calendar below will specify where one-night bookings are allowed.

Make sure you download or print this handy info sheet with directions and host contact details prior to your journey. You may not have mobile reception at all times.

ADDRESS

399 Waiotoi Road, Ngunguru, Northland 0154

DIRECTIONS

Do not attempt to use Google Maps to find your way to Maunga Iti. The directions are incorrect.

From Auckland (approx 3 hours drive):

Head North to Whangarei on SH 1. Stay on SH 1 bypassing Whangarei town.
You will see a golf course and turn off on your right to the Tutukaka Coast. Take that turn off and follow the road for about 1km.
Go straight through a small roundabout, and another couple of hundred metres straight through the next roundabout.
At this point you'll have a Mobil petrol station on your left and be heading out of the eastern suburb of Tikipunga. You'll see a big sign directing you towards Tutukaka, Matapouri and Ngunguru. Driving time from this point to Ngunguru is approximately 25 minutes.
The next settlement you will get to is Ngunguru. Drive along the estuary past the shop and over the second one lane bridge. Immediately after the bridge is a turnoff to your left. This is Waiotoi Road.
Head straight down Waiotoi Road. This will turn into a gravel road after about 1.5km. Continue on the gravel road, passing a one lane bridge. The road will fork. Stay on the bottom road.
Continue over another one lane bridge until you come to the end. A council maintenance sign and a house with a wooden fence is straight ahead. Maunga Iti's private road leads you up the hill and past the wooden house.
Take the second drive on your left, and you will see the Maunga Iti sign. Continue up the drive to the yellow house where Stefan and Ira will greet you and show you to your tent.

Maunga Iti

Maunga Iti Location

What time is check in and check out?

Check in - 3pm

Check out - 11am

WHAT ARE THE BED AND BEDDING ARRANGEMENTS?

Maunga Iti has one large wooden, framed luxury tent, sleeping two people in a queen-sized bed with a wool duvet and underlay. The bed is made up with top quality, 100% Egyptian cotton sheets.

A third adult can be accommodated on the sofa-bed for an extra charge per night.

WHAT ARE THE KITCHEN AND COOKING FACILITIES?

The camp kitchen is a fully covered and enclosed space with bench space and hot water for dishes. All the pots, cutlery and utensils you'll need for cooking and eating are provided. An indoor table is provided for dining as well as an outdoor picnic table.

A BBQ surface on the brazier, gas oven and stove top, and the wood-burning stove, are all options for cooking on.

There is room for food storage in the camp kitchen, and a gas powered camp fridge is provided for cool food storage.

Some pantry basics are provided - cooking oil, salt and pepper.

WHAT ARE THE BATHROOM FACILITIES?

The camp bathroom has a flushing toilet, sink, shower and hot water. An outdoor bath (with a fantastic view) at the front of the deck is a great way to end the day.

IS THERE POWER?

The campsite at Maunga Iti if off-grid and has no mains electric power source. There is 12V lighting in the tent, kitchen and bathroom. Hot water, the fridge and cooking facilities are all powered via LPG gas. A wood-burning stove provides warmth for cosy Autumn and Winter glamping.

IS THERE MOBILE PHONE RECEPTION?

Mobile phone reception (Vodafone and Telecom) is available on the property. Guests are welcome to charge phones at Stefan and Ira's house.

WHAT SORT OF HEATING IS THERE?

The tent at Maunga Iti has a special tent wood-burner that keeps things very cosy in the colder seasons. You will need to keep it stoked and it may die out overnight, but you'll have plenty of warm bedding to keep you cosy until morning.

What is glamping like in winter?

Maunga Iti is open for winter stays, but bear in mind that you're booking an off-grid escape - without the usual luxuries of a fully powered home. Glamping is still a form of camping!

Maunga Iti has lots of warm bedding, heating in the tent in the form of a wood-burner and other elements that will make your stay cosy and atmospheric. If you book a stay in winter, bring your sense of adventure, brush up on your fire-lighting skills and be prepared for the elements!

IS MAUNGA ITI CHILD-FRIENDLY?

Maunga Iti is not suitable for children and is a strictly adults-only site. The one exception to this rule is for non-mobile babies under 6 months with BYO bedding and portacot. If you are bringing your non-mobile baby, you'll need to mention this in the comments box when you book.

If you're looking for a safe family-friendly glamping site, select the family icon in the search bar on our 'find your escape' page to easily find them.

CAN I BRING MY PET OR HORSE?

Maunga Iti is a strictly 'no pet' campsite (with no exceptions), and is not suitable for horses.

HOW PRIVATE AND REMOTE IS THE CAMPSITE?

Maunga Iti is very private. Set atop a hill with a bush backdrop and beautiful views, the only sounds you'll hear are the birds in the bush.

WHERE DO I PARK MY CAR?

Visitors can drive right up to the campsite on an all weather access road. It's easy to come and go on the separate driveway, away from the main house.

CAN I HAVE A CAMPFIRE?

Yes. Maunga Iti has a designated campfire area which is a great place to relax with a glass of wine and a bag of marshmallows at the end of the day. It is dependent on the time of year and conditions though, and at certain times of the year will be unavailable due to higher than normal fire risk. Stefan and Ira will let you know if there is a fire-ban in place when you are visiting.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

Food and drink
Warm clothing in winter – especially if you want to soak up the evening stars
Footwear suitable for walking the bush tracks (a must-do on the property)
Toiletries
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Beach towels
Suitable footwear for inside the tent (jandals, soft-soled shoes).

ARE THERE ANY SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS?

Maunga Iti is a small bush block property. There are specific water hazards, such as streams, and natural hazards found in the bush, such as stinging nettle. Care needs to be taken on the bush tracks as the ground is uneven and steep in parts. For your own safety please do not touch any machinery, or other buildings or sheds on the property.

Can I book for one night only?

All Year Round:

There is a standard minimum stay period of 2 nights.

Single nights are only allowed where there is a one night gap between bookings. One night gaps between bookings will be made available to book online with a $75 Single Night Surcharge applicable.

Public Holiday Weekends:

The minimum booking period for long weekends such as Labour Weekend, Anniversary Weekend, etc is 3 nights. The minimum booking period for Easter is 4 nights. There are sometimes longer minimum stay periods across Christmas and New Year and these will be specified in the online availability calendar.

Our minimum night policies are strictly adhered to. Please note that there are no exceptions to the policies for Maunga Iti.

Minimum Stay Periods

Our minimum night policies are strictly adhered to. Please note that there are no exceptions to the policies outlined below for Maunga Iti.

All Year Round:

There is a standard minimum stay period of 2 nights.

Single nights are only allowed where there is a one night gap between bookings. One night gaps between bookings will be made available to book online with a $75 Single Night Surcharge applicable.

Public Holiday Weekends:

RATES

Peak (20 December to 30 April):

$350 per night for two people.
Linen for the sofa bed can be provided for a surcharge of $50 if two separate beds are required for two people.
A third adult can be accommodated on the sofa bed for $100 per night.

Off-Peak (1 May to 19 December):

$290 per night for two people.
Linen for the sofa bed can be provided for a surcharge of $50 if two separate beds are required for two people.
A third adult can be accommodated on the sofa bed for $100 per night.

Please Note: Maunga Iti is an adults only campsite.

Single Night Surcharge:

Where single nights are bookable (see Minimum Stay Periods) a Single Night Surcharge of $75 applies. Please apply this during the online booking process.

The Single Night Surcharge applies to all one night stays, even when there is only one night available. By their nature, glamping sites are more remote and time-consuming to service than more standard accommodation types. Therefore, in order to cover the costs and time involved, a Single Night Surcharge is applicable to all one night stays.

Activities and Therapies

Maunga Iti has a range of activities and therapies that can be booked during the online booking process.

Forest Water Therapy - $150.00 per person, or $190.00 per couple

The guided Forest Water Therapy is a unique blend of the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku, immersing oneself in the forest and the German Kneipp therapy, a pristine running fresh water therapy. Experience the pure essence of life on this skillfully guided walk. Allow for approximately 1.5 hrs, including a guided meditation or quiet time by the stream. Ideally you will combine your Forest Water Therapy with the guided meditation, massage, or book the entire Wellness Package for $290.00 per couple.

Meditation (60 minutes) - By the waterfall - $100 per couple, or in your tent/our house - $60 per couple

Stefan's meditation practice is based on mindfully observing any sensations in your own body. While this equanimus observation has vast benefits on its own the structured approach of observing the body from head to toe also serves to focus the mind. This meditation lends itself to newcomers as well as to people with previous meditation experience. You will be guided by Stefan, who has attended intensive meditation courses and is an experienced, daily practitioner since 2010. Ideally, you will combine your meditation with the forest-water experience and a massage, or book the entire Wellness Package for $290.00 per couple.

Massage - $60 per 60 min, $90 per 90 min, $120 per 120 min per person

Stefan's massages are a blend of Swedish and Thai practices, using fusions of natural bees wax and plant oils designed to help you relax, de-stress and find a harmonious sense of wellbeing. Have your massage in the massage room at Stefan and Ira's house or in your luxury tent. The latter option is weather dependent. Ideally you combine your massage with the forest-water experience and meditation or book the entire Wellness Package for $290.00 per couple.

“We spent most of the weekend in the lovely outdoor bath and still cannot stop talking about how amazing Stefan's massage was! Do not pass up this opportunity when visiting Maunga Iti.”

The Wellness Package - $250.00 per person, $290.00 per couple

This package is designed to ensure you will get the most out of your stay at Maunga Iti. It comprises of the following experiences and is available for singles or couples:

One 60 minute massage
One 60 minute guided meditation
One 90 minute guided Forest & Water therapy.

You can further individualise your options by choosing longer durations for all of the above experiences and possibly choose a different location for your massage and meditation. The suitability of alternative locations, i.e. the luxury tent or the meditation platform by the waterfall will be weather dependent.

Kiwi Listening in June & July - $50 per couple (50% of proceeds go to Landcare Trust for ongoing predator control)

Join Stefan and the team at Landcare Trust for a night-time session listening for kiwi calls during June and July. This is a critical step in the monitoring of the kiwi population in the area, and a once in a life-time experience to be part of the conservation of our very special national bird.

Mountain Bike Hire - $20 per day, per person

Jump on the bikes and enjoy a leisurely cycle around the surrounding area. A great way to soak up the sights and vibe of the Tutukaka Coast.

GIFT VOUCHERS

Give the gift of glamping! Gift Vouchers can be used at any of our Canopy Camping Escapes glamping sites, including Maunga Iti. These are provided in electronic format, for you to print out and pop in a greeting card for the lucky recipient. Read more about our gift vouchers, including how to purchase one, here.

1. booking and payments

1.1 A deposit of 10% is required to confirm your booking and secure the property. This will be charged to your credit card at the time of booking. A 2.5% credit card payment surcharge will be applied to this payment.

1.2 On receipt of the deposit, you will receive an email confirming both the payment and your booking details.

1.3 The remaining balance will be due one month in advance of your arrival date. An email reminder will be sent to you 31 days prior to your arrival date, where an outstanding balance remains. The reminder email gives you the option to pay the remaining balance by A2A (Internet Banking) or credit card. If your internet banking payment has not been received within 24 - 48 hours, the remaining balance will automatically be charged to the credit card used at the time of booking. Please note: a 2.5% credit card payment surcharge is applied to all payments made by credit card. Credit Card data is held in a secure and encrypted environment.

1.4 Bookings made within 4 weeks in advance of your arrival date will be charged the full balance at the time of booking (this may be processed in two payments).

1.5 If you are unable to pay the balance before the stated due date, you will forfeit your deposit and your booking will be cancelled.

1.6 Bookings made online within 48 hours of arrival will not be confirmed immediately. Once the campsite has agreed that the booking can be honoured, the guest will be informed by Canopy Camping Escapes and the credit card used for the online booking will be charged the full balance of the stay (note that there is a 2.5% credit card fee).

2. cancellation, date changes and severe weather warnings

2.1 Some campsites may have limitations due to weather. If severe weather is forecast we will call you as soon as possible prior to your scheduled arrival date to advise you and cancel your booking. You can choose whether to defer your holiday to a later date subject to availability or receive a full refund.

2.2 Your 10% deposit is non-refundable, however it can be transferred to another booking made within a 12 month period, if your stay is cancelled more than 3 weeks prior to your arrival.

2.3 Cancellation or date changes by you within 4-21 days of your arrival date will result in 50% of the total cost of your stay being charged. Cancellation or date changes within 3 days of your arrival date will result in 100% of the total cost of your stay being charged.

2.4 Date changes made more than 21 days prior to your original arrival date are allowed without penalty.

3. safety and hazards

3.1 Campsites are often situated on working farms and there are hazards both natural and man-made. You accept that you enter the property at your own risk to participate in a glamping holiday.

3.2 Participation in activities such as, outdoor baths, climbing trees, walking on the property and any other activity on the property is the responsibility of the Guest and is done so at their own risk.

3.3 Canopy Camping Escapes accept no liability for accident, loss of property or personal injury whilst on your stay.

4. pets

No pets allowed unless otherwise specified on the website listing. Most campsites are situated on working farms, and therefore are not suitable for visiting pets.

5. GST (standard)

GST of 15% (where applicable) is included in the daily per night cost. A GST invoice will be supplied if requested.

6. conditions of occupancy and conduct

6.1 Guests have the right to occupy the Property for the paid holiday period only.

6.2 Guests are required to observe the rules and familiarise themselves with the procedures contained in the information folder provided in the accommodation.

6.3 Guests shall take all reasonable and proper care of the property and its furniture, fittings and effects in or on the property and leave them in the same state of repair, condition, cleanliness and tidiness as at the commencement of the rental period.

6.4 Guests are required to inform the owner of any damage or breakage in or around the property promptly so that it can be repaired and replaced for the next guests. Guests are bound to reimburse the owners for replacement or repair.

6.5 Where the property has not been left in the same state of condition, cleanliness and tidiness as at the commencement of the rental period, an additional cleaning cost of $100 may be reasonably demanded by the owners.

6.6 Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the property.

6.7 Guests undertake to behave in a proper, appropriate and legal manner with due respect to the Owner, the Property and other guests and their property. If any guest behaves inappropriately or improperly (of which the Owner will be the final judge on their Property), or illegally, the Owner reserves the right to ask the guest and their party (at their discretion) to leave the Property before the end of the holiday period. Any refund for so doing will be at the entire discretion of the Owner in consultation with Canopy Camping Escapes.

7. authority to sign

The person who completes the Booking Form certifies that: he or she is authorised to agree the Booking Conditions on behalf of all persons included in the Booking Form, including those substituted or added at a later date; the signatory is over eighteen years of age; they agree to take responsibility for the party occupying the Property, and to notify Canopy Camping Escapes if they are not a member of the holiday party.

Eating and Drinking

Maunga Iti is self-catering. Just bring your own food and cook meals using the BBQ and equipment provided in your private camp kitchen. You'll find cutlery, crockery, pots and pans, and utensils.

If you want a break from cooking at any stage, and feel like a meal out, Stefan and Ira recommend Oceans, Schnappa Rock, or Marina Pizzeria in Tutukaka.

The nearest supermarket is in Tikipunga, an Eastern suburb of Whangarei about a 25 minute drive away. The nearest store for basic supplies is the Ngunguru 4 Square, just a 5 minute drive away.
Things to Do

Maunga Iti is the ultimate place to stay for rest and relaxation. Stefan and Ira offer a range of wellness activities and therapies to help you really unwind and rejuvenate. Whether it's massage, meditation, the guided Forest Water Therapy or the full Wellness Package - there's something for everyone. Check out the full details in the 'Rates and Extras' section above.

If you can tear yourself away from the comfort and tranquility of your tent, you'll find a range of things to do on and around the property. There are a number of bush walks at Maunga Iti - tracks ranging from 20 - 45 minutes in length. Spot the amazing array of native birds!

Off the property, but nearby, you have the choice of some other great walks. The Sandy Bay to Whananaki coastal walk or the local coastal walk from Ngunguru Beach to Whangaumu Bay - both sections of the Te Araroa walking track.

There's a raft of other activities in the area to take advantage of too; diving or snorkelling at the Poor Knights Marine Reserve, surfing at Sandy Bay, even big game fishing at Tutukaka. The Tutukaka Marina has some excellent local art, retail, cafes and restaurants.
Your Hosts

Stefan and Ira Seitzer will be your hosts while at Maunga Iti. They're a fantastic couple with an interesting background - both personally and professionally.

Stefan, originally from Germany, arrived in New Zealand in 1985 after studying 5 years of classical music. His first job in New Zealand was as a possum trapper where he quickly fell in love with the native bush and environment. After a few years he decided to study Environmental Science, and after graduating set up his own freshwater consultancy. As well as this he's written several articles for the NZ Geographic, set up an outdoor environmental educational programme and eventually decided on a major career change by training as and becoming a teacher.

Stefan bought Maunga Iti in 1995 after seeing the potential of the bush surrounds, stony bottomed stream that ran through the property, and North Island Brown Kiwi in the area. He met the lovely Ira not long after on Ngunguru beach - and the rest was history as they say!

Ira's whakapapa is Ngapuhi, Ngati Kahungungu and Ngati Maru. She's had an equally diverse and interesting career, having had worked in the fitness industry, studied tourism and hospitality, worked with Stefan with their freshwater education programmes and eventually training as a primary school teacher.

"
Amazing views, beautiful surroundings, very clean & tidy. Perfect for relaxing in style 😁
"
Patricia Knibbs - 16 Jan 2021
"
Ideal location to feel like you’re truly in the bush away from everyday things. High quality tent structure and comfortable bed. Awesome views and bird calls.
"
Kim Stott - 12 Jan 2021
"
Maunga iti is the epicenter of paradise! We just LOVED it. The bath overlooking the forest out to the ocean is spectacular. We did take up food, but never ate it, instead exploring the great eateries at Tutukaka. A fantastic three days away!
"
Nicola Ward Able - 30 Dec 2020
"
Such a great glamping setup. We loved the ease of use of everything at Maunga Iti. We had initially planned to go out to the local beaches during the day but once we arrived we changed our minds and stayed put! From the peace and quiet to the gorgeous views, birdsong during the day, then ruru and kiwi calls at night, the outdoor bathtub, the fireplace(s) and the private bushwalks- just incredible. Te mutunga kē mai o te pai!
"
Alicia Ngaropo-Tuia - 29 Dec 2020
"
The perfect place to rest and recharge but so close to lovely beaches and walks if you want to explore. Highly recommended
"
Jude Sprott - 23 Nov 2020
"
We can’t recommend Stefan and Ira highly enough; from the moment of our arrival until the moment we left, we knew instantly we had made an amazing choice to stay. We booked for two nights and came away so refreshed, it felt like we had been away for a week.
"
Michelle Brackebush - 23 Nov 2020
"
We had the most amazing time at Maunga iti , listening to the birds at night and when we woke was lovely , the views and the overall set up , we would love to go back!
"
Leighann Missen - 14 Nov 2020
"
We really enjoyed the seclusion, which brought peace & tranquility. The wood-fired bath & fire were very atmospheric.
"
Matthew Adams - 08 Nov 2020
"
The location is absolutely stunning! The glamping tent is so well thought out, the owners have considered so many small details. The outside bath was one of the best baths of my life. We couldn't recommend the water therapy, meditation, massage package higher! If you are needing to ground yourself and escape the noise of life this is the place to go. Absolutely magical!
"
Anna Wilson - 24 Oct 2020
"
Maunga Iti was fantastic, allowing a very relaxing and private break away.
"
Jignasha Patel - 20 Oct 2020
"
Maunga Iti is private, serene, quiet, and completely magical. The first night I had a bath under a completely clear starlit sky. It was beautiful. It's cosy, comfortable and has everything you need for a simple luxury glamping experience. Would highly recommend staying here.
"
Jess Holdaway - 11 Sep 2020
"
Had a great stay. Was really relaxing and great to do something different. Would recommend.
"
Sharleen Familton - 05 Aug 2020
"
A lovely peaceful spot amongst bush with distant coastal views. The site was well set up even for a very cold night in the middle of Winter. The outdoor bath and the lovely wood fired burner were highlights, providing that real sense of getting away from it all. We really enjoyed our first glamping experience.
"
Lynley Ellwood - 30 Jul 2020
"
The location, views, wildlife and tranquility is just perfect! We hope to get back sometime soon and this has ignited our interest in glamping!
"
Greg Blomfield - 03 Jun 2020
"
Loved everything from the bush/stream walks, hearing the kiwis chatter at night, to the awesome outdoor bath on the deck! Massive thanks to Stefan for his hospitality and for sharing his piece of paradise with us. As newly weds on our mini-moon that was a perfect spot!
"
Mo Aly - 13 Feb 2020
"
We loved our stay. It was exactly what we needed for a nice get away. Definitely take advantage of the massage with Stefan! Very relaxing!
"
Sarah Vos - 05 Feb 2020
"
We found this to be a very relaxing, clean and well thought out place to stay. Close to nice restaurant and beaches. The outdoor bath made this stay extra special.
"
tony Clayton - 08 Jan 2020
"
Stefan was an awesome host!
"
Daniel Rankin - 08 Jan 2020
"
Very relaxing retreat away from our devices and busy lives. Really enjoyed listening to all the bird life at night including the Kiwi and soaking in the outdoor bath. Would highly recommend Maunga Iti if you’re after a break in the New Zealand wilderness.
"
Zoe Lightfoot - 06 Jan 2020
"
If you are looking for a romantic weekend away then this is the spot! It's absolutely beautiful and everything is clean and cosy.. The outside bath is fantastic!! We had the best weekend and will definitely be back...
"
Mathew Clements - 16 Oct 2019
"
Great hosts, accommodation and place to recharge the batteries.
"
Matt Lind - 23 Sep 2019

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