Perched among the trees, our purpose-built treehouse offers privacy, comfort and immersion in the wild landscape of Nelson Creek.
Tucked into the canopy of regenerating native forest, Te Aka Treehouse Native Forest Retreat offers a rare and refined treehouse experience in the South Island of New Zealand. Purpose-built and thoughtfully designed, our luxury treehouse accommodation blends eco-conscious construction with comfort, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for place. Set on the West Coast near Nelson Creek, Te Aka is often described as one of the most unique and immersive treehouse stays in New Zealand — a true retreat for those seeking something beyond the ordinary.
Each treehouse has been handcrafted on site, positioned carefully among mature trees to honour the land rather than dominate it. Elevated within the forest canopy, the design maximises natural light, privacy, and connection to nature, with large windows, skylights, and seamless indoor–outdoor flow. Locally sourced and reclaimed timbers, natural materials, and low-impact building methods reflect our commitment to sustainability and slow, considered development. This is eco-friendly luxury done quietly — not for show, but for longevity and care.
Designed for rest, reconnection, and immersion, Te Aka offers a treehouse stay where the forest is not just the backdrop, but the experience itself. From waking to birdsong to watching light move through the canopy, guests are invited to slow down and settle into the rhythm of this special corner of Aotearoa. For travellers seeking the best treehouse accommodation in New Zealand, Te Aka offers something rare: a stay that feels wild, intentional, and deeply rooted in place.
Private Rainforest Retreat
Sleeps 2-5 people
1 King - Main Treehouse1 Queen & 1 Single loft - Sleep Treehouse
Te Aka Treehouses comfortably accommodate one or two couples, a group of friends, or a family of up to five (note: not suitable for young mobile children due to natural terrain and hazards).
The main treehouse (71m²) includes a full kitchen, a deep bath with rainforest views, and a luxuriously plush king bed. The smaller sleep treehouse (27m²) features a queen bed, a single loft bed, and full blackout drapes — ideal for light sleepers or those craving deeper rest.
Optional dinner ingredients: fresh vegetables from our garden and your choice of protein (chicken, wild venison, beef, lamb, salmon, halloumi, or legume-based).
Private catering available upon request by our in-house chef — please inquire for menus and pricing.
Please provide 24 hours’ notice if you’d like to order dinner ingredients.
Yes. The treehouse is equipped with quality coffee-making facilities. If you’d like to explore locally, Reefton is home to excellent cafés, and we recommend trying beans from West Roastery — a local favourite. (See our dedicated blog on coffee and local recommendations for more detail.)
Mobile coverage can be limited depending on your provider and is often patchy within the treehouse. WiFi is high speed Starlink, but many guests choose to disconnect and enjoy the environment. WhatsApp is recommended to communicate with your hosts when you are on the property.
The treehouse is equipped for year-round comfort. There is a wood fire inside & underfloor heating in the bathroom. Winter stays are cosy and well-suited to the setting.
Yes. The main treehouse is designed for adults, with a separate bunkhouse available for children over 12 years old and non-mobile infants/babies. The bunkhouse / sleep treehouse is also suitable for another couple or friends. The property is in native bush with elevated structures, so supervision is required at all times.
Yes. The treehouse includes a full kitchen, bathroom, heating, quality bedding and all essentials for a comfortable stay. You can cook for yourself or pre-order meal options.
We recommend sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain, particularly if you plan to explore the walking tracks, tunnels, wetlands or Golden Gully. The West Coast weather can change quickly, so a rain jacket and warm layers are advised year-round. For glow worm and tunnel experiences, covered shoes are essential.
Yes, Lisa and Dave live on the wider property. However, the treehouse is positioned privately within the forest, separate from the main residence. Your stay is fully private, and you won’t see other guests. The owners are available if needed but respect your space.
Yes — with appropriate footwear. The West Coast climate is part of the experience. The sauna is especially good on cooler or wetter days.
Yes. The raised structure allows safe access across the wetlands in most conditions.
You can explore independently, or guided experiences are available by arrangement. Low-light conditions are required for the best viewing the more easily accessible glow worm dell. There is a glow worm tunnel on site which is a guided experience only.
Let us take care of it. We’ll light the sauna, drive you there in the Te Aka Jimny (aka Jimmy), and have refreshments and fresh towels ready. Just ask about adding this to your stay.
The Nelson Creek Pub is a few minutes away for meals. Reefton township is about 40 minutes from Te Aka and offers cafés, a bakery, takeaway options and 2 small supermarkets for essentials. For a wider range of groceries, Greymouth is around 35 minutes away. We recommend arriving with supplies if you plan to self-cater — or pre-order a meal kit for convenience.
Yes. Each season offers something different — long summer evenings, crisp winter skies, moody spring rivers and rich autumn colours.
There are dining options in Reefton and Greymouth. We’re happy to recommend favourites.
Yes. Reefton Distilling Co. is around 40 minutes away and offers tastings and cellar door experiences.
Yes. The Paparoa region offers multiple walking options, including sections of the Paparoa Great Walk, short forest walks and river tracks.
Te Aka is approximately 45 minutes from Punakaiki and the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes.
Yes. The upgraded driveway provides safe access for standard vehicles year-round.
Yes, there is a 2 night minimum stay requirement.
Check in from 3 p.m. & check out by 11 a.m. - late checkouts can be arranged, please inquire.
CANCELLATION: Within 30 days of arrival: 50% charged. Within 7 days: 100% charged.
The ultimate West Coast escape — off-grid, indulgent, unforgettable. Your space to rest, reconnect, and explore untamed wilderness.